Newborn Screening Laboratory Scientist - Laboratory Scientist 3

Job Details

Working Title: Newborn Screening Laboratory Scientist
Job Class: Laboratory Scientist 3
Agency: Health Department

• Job ID: 76615
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all bidders of MDH and all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bidders will be accepted through 05/23/2024.
• Date Posted: 05/17/2024
• Closing Date: 06/03/2024
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Health Department / Health-MAPE
• Division/Unit: Public Health Laboratory / PHL NBS Core/Molecular Staff
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift / 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $29.47 - $43.51 / hourly; $61,533 - $90,848 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
• FLSA Status: Nonexempt
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

Job Summary

Join the mission-driven team at the Public Health Laboratory (PHL) and promote and protect the health of all Minnesotans!

This Laboratory Scientist position is located in the Newborn Screening Molecular/Core Unit. Molecular experience is required. This position exists to:

• Carry out clinical and molecular biology assays for heritable and congenital disorders in newborns,
• Interpret and report results in the laboratory information management system (LIMS),
• Maintain laboratory instrumentation, troubleshoot analytical and instrumental problems, and
• Instruct less experienced staff in analytical techniques utilizing specialized knowledge and experience.
• Monitor and execute the laboratory’s CLIA certification requirements such as: technical competency program, tracking lab performance with testing metrics, completing annual instrument and cutoff checks, and quality control/quality assurance improvement projects.

All positions within the MDH Public Health Lab will work to cultivate an inclusive work environment for all, with respect to diversity and equity.

This position requires working one Saturday per month in exchange for a day off during the week. This position also requires working some holidays (1-2 per year).

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• 3 years of laboratory experience with molecular testing instruments.
• 1 year must include newborn screening experience.

CLIA Education Requirements are a minimum of 60 semester/90 quarter college credits that includes either: 1) 24 semester/36 quarter credits in medical laboratory technology; or 2) 24 semester/36 quarter credits of science courses that includes six semester/nine quarter credits in chemistry; six semester/nine quarter credits in biology; and twelve semester/eighteen quarter hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination. Applicants will be asked to provide evidence of course completion at time of interview.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with analytical reagent preparation and clinical specimen processing.
• Ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot PC-based analytical instrumentation.
• Technical skills and familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Knowledge of Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) and College of American Pathologists (CAP) principles and practices.
• Knowledge of chemical, biochemical, molecular, and/or clinical laboratory procedures.
• Ability to perform validations and verifications of instruments and assays.
• Knowledge of college mathematics, algebra, and practical statistics; and the ability to apply them to complex measurement techniques.

Physical Requirements

Occasional transportation of up to 30 pounds.

Additional Requirements

This position requires successful completion of a background check.

Applicants will be asked to provide evidence of course completion at time of interview.

Application Details

How to Apply

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Elizabeth Huckins at elizabeth.huckins@state.mn.us or 651-201-5609.

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Elizabeth Huckins at elizabeth.huckins@state.mn.us.

About Health Department

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
  • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Tuition reimbursement <Remove this bullet if this position is not eligible for tuition reimbursement>
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.