Microbiologist Enteric

Purpose of Position/Summary:
Incumbent is responsible for coordinating and performing the full range of microbiological examinations and analyses including culture, biochemical tests, EIA, serotyping, PCR, and WGS of clinical specimens for isolation and identification of enteric bacteria including but not limited to Salmonella, E.coli, Shigella, Vibrio, Listeria and Campylobacter. Incumbent will also be responsible for the documentation of all quality control and quality assurance activities according to CLIA regulations. In addition, this position may cross-train in other areas of the lab that may include molecular, microbiological, viral, serological, and other techniques to support routine testing and provide backup capacity.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:
Incumbent will have in-depth knowledge and ability in the area of microbiology and molecular biology and is able to perform laboratory associated assays or the ability to learn these techniques upon successful completion of proficiency testing. Representative duties include:
• Conducting examinations of samples and/or reference samples for analyses such as but not limited to, molecular detection or isolation and identification of microorganisms/toxins or their antigens/nucleic acids.
• Strictly follow the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting and maintaining records of patient test results.
• Extraction of nucleic acids from specimens, isolates, and samples via a variety of manual and automated methods;
•Utilize molecular techniques such as, but not limited to, PCR, sequencing, MALDI-TOF, and WGS;
• Evaluate, interpret, and validate laboratory results and reports findings.
• Maintain laboratory record system of submitted samples and specimens and their possible referral.
• Conduct quality control checks on laboratory methods, materials, and equipment in strict adherence to the laboratory's quality control policies.
• Maintain an inventory of laboratory supplies and order as needed to ensure testing needs are met.
• Assist in preparations of epidemiological and/or statistical reports from data compiled on a daily, weekly, monthly, or annual basis.
• Maintain competency in all trained areas.
• Perform all related work as required.
•Testing personnel responsibilities (4NA.14NA Standard):
The testing personnel are responsible for specimen processing, test performance and for reporting test results.
(a)Each individual performs only those high complexity tests that are authorized by the laboratory director and require a degree of skill commensurate with the individual’s education, training or experience, and technical abilities.
(b)Each individual performing high complexity testing must—
(1)Follow the laboratory’s procedures for specimen handling and
processing, test analyses, reporting and maintaining records of patient
test results;
(2)Maintain records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are
tested in the same manner as patient specimens;
(3)Adhere to the laboratory’s quality control policies, document all quality
control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations and
maintenance performed;
(4)Follow the laboratory’s established policies and procedures whenever
test systems are not within the laboratory’s established acceptable levels
of performance;
(5)Be capable of identifying problems that may adversely affect test
performance or reporting of test results and either must correct the
problems or immediately notify the general supervisor, technical
supervisor, clinical consultant, or director;
(6)Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from
the laboratory’s established performance specifications; and
(7)Except as specified in paragraph (c) of this section, if qualified under §
493.14NA(b)(5), perform high complexity testing only under the onsite,
direct supervision of a general supervisor qualified under § 493.14na.
(c)Exception. For individuals qualified under § 493.1489(b)(5), who were performing
high complexity testing on or before January 19, 1NA3, the requirements of
paragraph (b)(7) of this section are not effective, provided that all high complexity
testing performed by the individual in the absence of a general supervisor is
reviewed within 24 hours by a general supervisor qualified under § 493.1461.

Job Requirements:
Extensive knowledge of the principles, theories and practices of microbiology and related sub- specialties;
• Specialized knowledge of current scientific methods and testing procedures and the ability to apply them when seeking solutions to public health laboratory problems;
• Specialized knowledge of and ability to use a full range of standard technical equipment, complex scientific apparatus, and automated techniques of analysis;
• Extensive knowledge of laboratory safety practices and principles;
• Aware of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies concerning the program area (i.e. CLIA);
• Ability to meet requirements for personnel certification as a technologist pursuant to the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA)
• Ability to effectively communicate technical information both verbally and in writing and maintain productive working relationships;
• Ability to satisfactorily participate in proficiency testing programs and recognize QA problems;
• Ability to compile, analyze, evaluate, and prepare laboratory reports.



Responsibility:
Incumbent works independently as an expert in the assigned area. Technical and/or detailed instruction is provided only upon request when necessitated by a procedural change and/or special project. Incumbent maintains established safety practices when working with materials that have a chemical hazard or biohazard potential. Reports are reviewed for general technical accuracy; however, tasks are performed independently. Errors in work could adversely affect the health, safety and well being of the incumbent or coworkers