Microbiologist I
Works under the moderate supervision of the Newborn Screening (NBS) Specimen Receiving Group Manager, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Receives and processes specimens received by the Laboratory Services Section (LSS). Reports problems and assists team leader in investigating causes for errors/discrepancies. Assists in training and mentoring other laboratory employees. Provides customer service. Performs other duties as assigned, including Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation.
Essential Job Functions:
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
EJF 1. Receives and processes specimens and samples received at the laboratory, including but not limited to microbiological, clinical chemistry, and environmental specimens/samples. Sorts, determines pre-analytical acceptability, and assigns lab numbers for all specimens/samples that are suitable for DSHS laboratory testing. Ensures all requisition forms are properly completed. Checks and verifies accuracy of work performed by others. Completes specimen and form processing by deadlines set forth in Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Manuals (30%)
EJF 2. Assist in training of employees, as assigned. Duties include but are not limited to ensuring trainee is properly trained according to SOP. Ensure all documentation is properly completed and forwarded to Team Lead/Group Manager when training is complete. Inform Team Lead/Group Manager of training progress and/or issues as they occur. Provides suggestions that may improve work efficiency and quality. May participate in interviewing process with Group Manager. (30%)
EJF 3. Performs assigned tasks including but not limited to processing unsatisfactory specimens, abnormal specimens, and packaging/delivery of specimens. Uses various Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) to enter test requests, search for patient demographic information, and track information for cataloging and auditing purposes. Completes and documents all required quality control (QC) steps, reports, and documents, as defined in SOP for assigned check-in procedures. (10%)
EJF 4. Report workload problems, processing problems, and incorrect reports to the Team Lead or Group Manager as they occur. Assist Team Lead in investigating causes for errors, discrepancies, and computer system issues. Helps in maintenance of equipment and instruments in the laboratory. (10%)
EJF 5. Provides customer service. Ensures that customer needs are met regarding the handling of specimens. Greets customers and records packages received by carriers, USPS, or hand deliveries. Provides information to providers and submitters according to SOPs. Assists Team Lead/Group Manager to solve logistical and technical problems. (10%)
EJF 6. Tasks require the ability to lift, push, pull, and carry packages, boxes, and/or coolers up to 50 lbs. repeatedly throughout the day. For all packages over 50 lbs., assistance is required. Deliver or pick up packages, boxes, and/or coolers via state vehicle. Safe operation of a state-owned vehicle or personal vehicle is required to conduct state business and an acceptable driving record must be maintained in accordance with DSHS Policy OS-3901, Fleet Operations and Management & Procedures and standards developed by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. (5%)
EJF 7. Performs other duties assigned, including but not limited to actively participating and/or serving a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternative shift pattern assignment, and/or location. (5%)and/or location. (5%)
Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Ability to use various items of laboratory equipment associated with work area.
Ability to use a computer.
Ability to interact effectively with staff.
Ability to work in harmony with other team members.
Ability to follow standard operating procedures and protocols accurately.
Ability to keep accurate, detailed records.
Ability to use aseptic techniques when working with infectious material.
Ability to handle specimens and samples quickly, accurately, and safely.
Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry 50 lb packages/boxes/coolers repeatedly throughout the day, assistance required for packages over 50 lbs.
Ability to effectively train others.
Ability to take initiative.
Basic knowledge of microbiological and chemical principles, techniques, and terminology.
Basic knowledge of laboratory safety including sample-handling techniques.
Skill to manipulate standard laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy, and safety.
Skill in effective customer service techniques.
Skill in prioritizing and/or delegating tasks.
Registration or Licensure Requirements:
Must possess a valid Class C Texas driver’s license, or equivalent license from another state.
Initial Selection Criteria:
All applicants are required to:
1. Be able to work hours other than 8 am – 5 pm, weekends, and holidays.
2. Have a valid Texas driver’s license or equivalent from another state and the ability to transport samples and/or specimens up to 5% of the time.
All applicants are required to meet at least one of the following criteria:
1. Microbiology and/or Chemistry semester hour coursework from a U.S. accredited college or university or a foreign degree/coursework determined to be equivalent by an acceptable education evaluator OR
2. Experience in pre-analytical processing or accessioning of samples or specimens in a clinical, research, or environmental laboratory OR
3. Experience in providing customer service.
4. Experience in training other staff or peers
Additional Information:
Requisition Number 588492
Work Schedule: Must be able to work holidays and weekends; all employees must work Saturdays as assigned. Must be able to work hours other than 8am – 5pm.
Transportation: Employee must provide transportation. If an employee operates a personal or state motor vehicle in the performance of their official duties, the employee must possess a current valid Texas driver’s license for the appropriate type of vehicle. Safe operation of either a state-owned vehicle or personal vehicle is required to conduct state business, applicants will have their driving records checked through the Department of Public Safety and applicants must have a valid Class C Texas driver’s license or equivalent license from another state.
Immunizations: Compliance with DSHS Laboratory Exposure Control Plan required: vaccine requirements are consistent with current Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations and other national guidelines for employee groups based upon job duties and tasks.
Risks: High Hepatitis risk.
Coursework: Include a list of all Microbiology and Chemistry semester hour courses/credit hours on application. Applicants with diplomas awarded in countries other than the U.S. must contact Laboratory Personnel Services (512-776-7318) for an approved list of credentialing agencies. NOTE: When completing your application, include details about your job experience as it relates to the essential functions, knowledge/skills/abilities, and screening information provided on this Position Description. Fax a list of all Microbiology and Chemistry semester hour courses/credit hours to accessHR at 1-866-245-3646. Please note Requisition number 581783 on all faxed information. Additional tips on completing the Application are available on-line at http://www.dshs.state.tx.us under "About DSHS - Jobs". Requisition #588492
. Location: 1100 W 49th Street, Austin, TX 78756, Laboratory.
Requisition ID 588492
MOS Code:
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include: 67B, 71A, 230X, 43TX. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Crosswalk at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/JobDescriptions.aspx.
Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to Jobs at HHSC and DSHS
HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.