Microbiologist I (VRDL VPDS) presso Heluna Health

SUMMARY

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and Heluna Health invites applications for a full-time Microbiologist I in the CDPH Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL). We are a team that works hard, appreciates each other, and strives to build a culture of equity, care, and participation in decisions that affect our work. The candidate will contribute to public health efforts to detect and study pathogens of public health importance in humans using standard molecular and microbiological testing strategies. The candidate will be experienced in real-time PCR and sequencing of human viral pathogens.

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).

The hourly range for this position is $33.27 to $49.02 per hour depending on experience/ qualifications. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

• Perform real-time PCR and Sanger sequencing procedures of measles, mumps, monkeypox, rubella, VZV, and hepatitis A viruses according to established SOPs
• Interpret and report testing results into the Laboratory Information Management System
• Prepare for and perform surge testing for state-wide outbreaks of public health concern
• Support whole genome sequencing work on viruses of pathogenic potential
• Adhere and contribute to Quality Assurance protocols and standards
• Follow safety and quality control procedures when handling hazardous biological and chemical materials
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Participate in training of other technical staff, local laboratory staff, and microbiologist trainees in testing procedures
• Prepare technical reports and collaborate in preparation of papers

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• The ideal candidate should have a solid laboratory background in molecular microbiology (virology preferred), including at least two years of experience with real-time PCR and sequencing of measles and rickettsia.
• Knowledge and experience in laboratory work environments with potentially infectious organisms (BSL-2 minimum)
• Able to follow verbal instructions and written protocols

Education/Experience

• A Bachelor’s degree in a biological science, with course work in chemistry, microbiology, and molecular biology is required.

Certificates/Licenses/Clearances

• Possession of a California Public Health Microbiologist (PHM) certification or eligible for PHM training is preferred but not required.

 Other Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing
• 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               Occasionally

Reach Outward                       Occasionally

Reach Above Shoulder           Occasionally

Climb, Crawl, Kneel, Bend     Occasionally

Lift / Carry                               Occasionally - Up to 25 lbs

Push/Pull                                 Occasionally - Up to 25 lbs

See                                          Constantly

Taste/ Smell                            Not Applicable

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.