MICROBIOLOGIST II

                                                            West Virginia Department of Agriculture
                                                                           Position Description

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Job Title:            Microbiologist II
Division:            Regulatory and Environmental Affairs Division
Headquarters:  Guthrie Agricultural Center, Charleston WV
Reports To:       Assistant Director, Laboratroy Services 
Supervisory
Responsibility:  None
FLSA Status:     Non-Exempt

Nature of Work:
The Microbiologist II performs administrative and professional work for the Microbiology Laboratory to include microbiological analyses of samples, specimens, or products specific to the Division and/or Program. The Microbiologist II will also perform related work in the maintenance of a quality assurance program for the Microbiology Laboratory. Analysis involving formulation of new or the revision of existing standards is referred to a superior for advice and/or final decision.

Examples of Work:

• Develop methods consistent with the laboratories’ equipment for analyses of specimens, samples, or products.
• Perform standard bacteriological, serological, and chemical related tests and observations in accordance with scientific principles and techniques.
• Analyze, interpret, and record test results in order to assist in the administration of laws, regulations or specifications relating to the microbiological composition of the products analyzed.
• Prepare official reports and may be called upon to testify before the court or the Commissioner.
• Utilize a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for data entry and other computer operations.
• Handle samples and perform analyses according to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and test methods.
• Accurately maintain records of all quality activities as documented in SOPs and test methods.
• Prepare laboratory equipment and/or scientific instrumentation for use in conducting diagnostic procedures.
• Report questionable identifications or finds on work to a supervisor.
• Develop and maintain quality assurance measures to assure that analytical methods are under control.
• Prepare in-house proficiency check samples, when necessary, for other laboratory staff.
• Write SOPs and test methods.
• Determine the type and extent of testing required to ascertain the quality of specimens submitted for analysis, guided by the principles and techniques of microbiology.
• Contribute to research project developments and conduct related bench work.
• Assist with training of new laboratory staff on detection methods and SOPs.
• Perform isolation and sensitivity techniques of microorganisms.
• Attend meetings including overnight travel.
• Other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:
Laboratory/office environment. Ability to sit, stand, and/or walk for extended periods; frequently bend, squat, reach above shoulder level, push, pull and handle objects; and capable of lifting up to 50 pounds. May require working in a warm, humid environment or with pathogenic microorganisms, hazardous chemicals, and hot surfaces capable of burns. Personal protective equipment is supplied and required for laboratory staff. Exposure to unpleasant odors may occur.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Comprehensive knowledge of the principles, practices, and procedures of organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, bacteriology, and related microbiology.
• Completes training on detection technologies including complex instrumentation.
• Advanced knowledge of composition and significant properties of materials and substances used or tested by the laboratory.
• Extensive knowledge of the source materials in the field of bacteriology and chemistry.
• Advanced skills in manipulative techniques and in following standard scientific laboratory methods.
• Comprehensive skills in the use of laboratory instruments and equipment commonly used in analytical laboratories.
• Seasoned ability to understand and to follow oral and written instructions, formulas and charts.
• Advanced ability to prepare analytical reports and to organize and present scientific information in a clear and concise manner.
• Seasoned ability to do original research and devise new methods of testing.
• Seasoned ability to operate an autoclave sterilizer.
• Proficient use of computer with office and laboratory related software.
• Advance skill at maintaining and calibrating equipment.
• Excellent ability of speaking before an audience.

Minimum Qualifications:
Education:       Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree. At least 25 semester hours in microbiology and physical sciences including a course in microbiology and 16 semester hours in chemistry.
Experience:     Three years of employment carrying out technical work in a microbiology laboratory.
Substitutions:  None 
Licenses/
Certifications:  None

Additional Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license is required.
• Satisfactory completion of pre-employment drug testing.
• Satisfactory completion of pre-employment law enforcement background investigation, including DMV records.
• Must maintain a positive image of the Commissioner, West Virginia Department of Agriculture, and the State of West Virginia.

                      This description is subject to review and revision at the discretion of the Commissioner and designees.
                                             West Virginia Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity employer.