Laboratory Scientist I

Under general supervision, is responsible for performing a variety of laboratory duties that include processing specimens/samples, performing moderate or high complexity testing and reporting test results. Requires familiarity with the field of tests performed in a public health laboratory. Capable of undertaking and completing projects under minimal supervision. Working conditions are in a laboratory environment. Must be willing to comply with all OSHA regulations and current immunization policies. Exercises no supervision. 

The San Antonio Metro Health District (SAMHD) provides public health services to clients, which may include risk for exposure to and possible transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases. Employees in high-risk positions will be required to obtain relevant immunizations, per SAMHD Policy DM13.2.  Review and consideration will be given to requests for exemption from this policy.

The San Antonio Metro Health District (SAMHD) is committed to advancing health equity throughout the community and to creating a work environment in which all staff feel valued, respected, and accepted. Per SAMHD Policy DM15.1, all employees are expected to apply a health equity lens to programs, services, and decision making that directly impact the communities we serve.

Work Location
2303 SE Military Dr., Bldg. 533 (78223)

Work Hours
7:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday; evening shift 11:45 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., twice monthly

• Performs communicable disease surveillance testing of laboratory specimens and samples of a varied nature consistent with the fields of testing in a public health laboratory environment such as rabies analysis, T-Spot IGRA testing, FDA Milk and Dairy, syphilis serology,
  HIV, microbiology, and molecular testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia.
• Perform all pre-analytic, analytic and post analytic functions.
• Performs equipment preventative maintenance in accordance with manufacturer and regulatory requirements.
• Conducts consumable supply and equipment inventories.
• Executes disposition of records and accurately maintains laboratory data files and associated documents in accordance with applicable program requirements.
• Responds to natural and man-made public health emergencies.
• Performs related duties and fulfills responsibilities as required.

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university with preferable coursework in Medical Technology or one (1) of the Chemical, Physical, or Biological Sciences.
• Or an Associate's Degree from an accredited medical laboratory technology/clinical laboratory science program.
• This position requires a valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License OR valid driver's license from another state with the ability to obtain a valid Texas Driver's License within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident.

Preferred Qualifications

• Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) / Medical Technologist (MT) Certification.

Applicant Information

• If selected for this position, official transcripts, diplomas, certifications and licenses must be submitted at the time of processing.  Unofficial transcripts and copies of other relevant documents may be attached to the application for consideration in advance.
• Please be advised that if selected for this position, information regarding employment history as it relates to the qualifications of the position will be needed for employment verification. Applicants claiming military service to meet the experience requirement for this position may attach a DD214 to the application.
• Unless otherwise stated, applicants are permitted to substitute two years of related full-time experience for one year of higher education or one year of related higher education for two years of experience in order to meet the minimum requirements of the job. One year of full-time experience is defined as 30 or more hours worked per week for 12 months.  One year of higher education is defined as 30 credit hours completed at an accredited college or university.
• Applicants selected for employment with the City of San Antonio in this position must receive satisfactory results from pre-employment drug testing and background checks.  If required for the position, a physical, motor vehicle record evaluation, and additional background checks may be conducted.

• Knowledge of laboratory testing procedures and techniques.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality control procedures and methods.
• Knowledge of human and animal anatomy.
• Knowledge of laboratory specimens and sample storage techniques.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and techniques.
• Knowledge of record keeping techniques and procedures.
• Knowledge of basic statistics and chemical formulations.
• Knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), laboratory specific biosafety/biosecurity standards and hazardous communication.
• Skill in operating laboratory testing equipment.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations.
• Ability to perform medical laboratory tests.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff and the general public.
• Ability to perform all the physical requirements of the position, with or without accommodations.
• Ability to apply safety precautions and procedures to the handling of laboratory test samples and specimens.

Salary : $18