Microbiologist I (VRDL) at Heluna Health

SUMMARY 

The Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL) seeks a Microbiologist I candidate. The successful candidate will perform important laboratory testing to detect SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses of interest to public health. Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree in a biological science AND must either be a certified Public Health Microbiologist or have microbiological laboratory experience. The incumbent should be experienced in working with microorganisms (specifically viruses), standard precautions, and be familiar with PCR. Maintaining an organized, neat, and clean work environment, working well in a team environment, and being organized and detail-oriented are essential. The position is in Richmond, CA.  

Must submit a resume with application. 

The hourly range for this position is $33.27 to $41.48 per hour depending on experience/ qualifications. 

If hired for this position, applicant will be required to provide proof of full vaccination for COVID-19 prior to the start date; or have a valid religious or medical reason qualifying the applicant for an exemption (that may or may not require accommodation).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs, interprets, and reports complex diagnostic and reference testing for virus and host immune response by direct viral detection, including but not limited to Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), whole genome sequencing, and general virus identification methods according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). 
• Specimen receipt and data entry into Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Ensures adherence to QC/QA protocols and standards for all methods, reagents, and laboratory equipment.
• Calibration, maintenance, and parallel testing of laboratory equipment.
• Maintains laboratory records of specimens, virus stocks, and reagents.
• Ordering inventory check of laboratory supplies and reagents, as needed.
• Analyze genomic sequences using bioinformatic pipelines for pathogen identification, characterization, and outbreak detection.
• Participate in proficiency testing, as needed.
• Maintain the database of genetic information, participate in reporting of the results, and communicate effectively with internal and external partners.
• Validation testing of new equipment, methodologies, and software for molecular methods, particularly PCR and next generation sequencing.
• Attendance to training and informational meetings/webinars/conference calls.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

 JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge and experience with laboratory work environments (BSL-2 minimum), sterile technique, and molecular (PCR; sequencing) techniques are required.
• Experience with standard precautions for working with potentially infectious clinical specimens, particularly working in class II BSC.
• Ability to perform micromanipulations such as pipetting small volumes and other fine measurements using laboratory instrumentation and equipment.

• Experience performing molecular biology techniques, such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), sequencing, and DNA extraction is highly preferred.
• Demonstrated attention to detail.

 Education/Experience

• Possession of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with course work in chemistry, microbiology, and molecular biology, required. 
• One year of experience working in a laboratory setting performing tasks related to microbiology or molecular biology.

 Certificates/Licenses

• Possession of a Public Health Microbiologist certificate, or eligibility for the Public Health Microbiologist training program, preferred.

 Other Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Computer skills (Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, email)
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally
• Ability to work independently and adapt to varied work settings
• Ability to work effectively with a team of diverse individuals

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Stand: Frequently
• Walk: Frequently
• Sit: Frequently
• Handling / Fingering: Frequently
• Reach Outward: Occasionally
• Reach Above Shoulder: Occasionally
• Climb, Crawl, Kneel, Bend: Occasionally
• Lift / Carry: Occasionally - Up to 30 lbs
• Push/Pull: Occasionally - Up to 50 lbs
• See (Vision): Constantly
• Taste/ Smell: Not Applicable

KEY

• Not Applicable = Not required for essential functions
• Occasionally = (0 - 2 hrs/day)
• Frequently = (2+ - 5 hrs/day)
• Constantly = (5+ hrs/day)

WORK ENVIRONMENT

General office and laboratory setting, indoors, temperature controlled

EEOC STATEMENT

It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, without regard to age (40 and over), national origin or ancestry, race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, reproductive health decision making, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer or a record or history of cancer), AIDS or HIV, genetic information or characteristics, veteran status or military service.