Public Health Scientists Associate

Arizona Department of Administration • Phoenix, AZ

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Public Health Scientist Associate conducts laboratory analyses on dried blood spots collected from newborns to identify metabolic disorders. The position performs chemical, hematological, molecular, and biochemical testing of clinical laboratory specimens in the Office of Newborn Screening. It also performs quality control, maintains laboratory records, provides consultation to clients and other laboratorians, and conducts preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment. The role maintains reagent and material stocks for testing sections and supports the laboratory in the event of a public emergency. The work involves potentially infectious and/or other hazardous materials.

The position is based at 250 N 17th Ave, Phoenix, Arizona. The Arizona Department of Health Services promotes alternative work schedules and flexible hours. The role requires a bachelor's degree in biological or clinical laboratory science and must meet CLIA minimum requirements for high-complexity testing.

Requirements

• Meet the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) minimum requirements for performing high-complexity testing as defined in CLIA §493.1489.
• Have earned a bachelor's degree in biological or clinical laboratory science.
• Knowledge of molecular biology and/or biochemical terminology, general biological sciences, chemistry, and biology.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of molecular biology and/or chemistry, including laboratory methods, procedures, equipment, and technology.
• Knowledge of quality-control procedures and techniques.
• Knowledge of federal and state standards applicable to clinical test procedures and the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA).
• Knowledge of Performance Management (PM), Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI), and lean methodologies.
• Skill in molecular and/or chemical laboratory testing and interpretation.
• Skill in performing preventative maintenance on standard laboratory equipment.
• Ability to apply safety precautions and procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships; communicate verbally and in writing; maintain accurate laboratory notes; and write technical reports.
• Ability to support a diverse, multicultural workforce and an inclusive work environment.
• Driver's license; vehicle-related requirements apply if driving or using a vehicle is an essential job function.

Responsibilities

• Perform specialized hematological, molecular biological, and biochemical testing procedures on dried blood spots submitted for laboratory analysis.
• Perform quality-control testing as required by regulations and maintain appropriate records.
• Record laboratory analysis results, including the procedure followed, specific results, final identification, and reporting date.
• Perform preventative maintenance on laboratory instruments.
• Order and reorder supplies for the work unit as needed.
• Maintain laboratory reagent and material stocks for testing conducted by the sections.
• Provide consultation to clients and other laboratorians.
• Support the laboratory in the event of a public emergency.
• Perform other duties related to the position as assigned.

Benefits

• Affordable medical and dental insurance plans
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Paid parental leave, up to 12 weeks per year for a newborn or newly placed foster or adopted child (pilot program)
• 10 paid holidays per year
• Wellness program and plans
• Life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Defined retirement plan with State contributions equal to the employee contribution
• Infant at Work program
• Credit union membership
• Transit subsidy
• ADHS Student Assistance Pilot Program
• Eligible employees may receive up to $300 per month toward outstanding student loans through the ADHS Student Loan Assistance Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time