Microbiologist jobs in Milwaukee, WI

Using microbiological and molecular methods, the Microbiologist performs moderate to high complexity testing of clinical and environmental specimens for the detection of microorganisms for Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) laboratories, clinics, and programs. Microbiologists work with highly pathogenic microorganisms in a Biosafety level 2 and 3 (BSL-2/3) laboratory, following state and federal guidelines.

Technical

• Use microbiological and molecular methods to identify and detect microorganisms in a variety of clinical and environmental matrices.
• Using the laboratory information management system (LIMS), manage, analyze, and process samples through all phases of testing.
• Report and release test results to clients, including those reportable to state and federal agencies.
• Identify, resolve, and document problems related to technical duties and assigned responsibilities.
• Use LIMS for pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases of laboratory testing.

Laboratory Quality

• Follow established inventory management and audit processes, including receipt and inspection of samples and supplies.
• Recognize and report corrective actions relative to non-conforming events (NCEs) in laboratory processes; participate in root cause analysis and identification of corrective actions.
• Participate in Continual Quality Improvement (CQI) efforts.
• Participate in the MHD medical/clinical branch and sectional meetings.

Regulatory and Compliance

• Comply with applicable laws, regulations, and guidance governing all aspects of laboratory testing, including testing, safety, and patient confidentiality.
• Participate in the method validation/verification process.
• Perform and provide reports on annual proficiency testing.
• Comply with testing policies and procedures regarding protected information (HIPAA).
• Maintain and document annual competency assessments in all assigned work areas.
• Participate in regulatory audits.
• Maintain technical records, assist with data requests, and provide technical support to partners.

Biosafety and Biosecurity

• Follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety guidelines, bloodborne pathogen standards, the MHD Laboratory Safety Manual, and other local, state, and national standard laboratory safety and best practices guidance.
• Recognize and report all safety incidents and hazards to management.
• Use the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for specific laboratory hazards.

We welcome qualified individuals with disabilities who are interested in employment and will make reasonable accommodations during the hiring process in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, as amended by the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) of 2008.

• The Microbiologist must be willing and able to do the following:
  • Wear a particulate respirator (N95 or higher) and have a respirator fit test annually.
  • Participate in the Federal Select Agent Program (Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002).
  • Obtain FBI background clearance.
  • Lift up to 25 pounds.
• This is a first-shift position; however, public health and security emergencies may require Microbiologists to be available during non-standard hours and/or weekends.
• While performing the duties of this job, employees must take appropriate safety precautions to avoid exposure to infectious agents or toxic laboratory chemicals.
• The preplacement medical requirements for this title include the following:
  • Physical/lift test
  • Audiogram
  • Vision
  • Tuberculosis (TB) Test; annually throughout employment
  • Hepatitis B Vaccine
  • COVID-19 Vaccine Confirmation
  • Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
  • Varicella Vaccine
  • Medical evaluation for respirator
  • Respirator fit test; annually throughout employment
  • Non-DOT drug test

Equivalent combinations of education and experience may also be considered.

NOTICE: Please do not attach your academic transcripts to your employment application. The hiring department will verify candidates’ education as part of the background screening process prior to extending any job offers.

• One of the following nationally recognized certifications within one year of employment:
  • American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification (BOC)
    • Microbiology, M(ASCP)
    • Medical Laboratory Scientist, MLS(ASCP)
    • Technologist in Molecular Biology, MB(ASCP)
    • Specialist in Microbiology, SM(ASCP)
  • National Registry of Certified Microbiologists (NRCM)
• Experience in molecular techniques.
• Skill in using specialized computer applications such as sequence analysis software.

Technical

• Knowledge of general microbiology and the ability to apply diagnostic microbiology procedures to identify and detect microorganisms.
• Knowledge of and ability to perform quality control and quality assurance practices in a microbiologic laboratory setting.
• Ability to connect components for environmental and/or clinical microbiology with factors impacting public health.
• Ability to use laboratory equipment (e.g., thermocyclers, microscopes, biosafety cabinets) in a clinical, environmental, or public health laboratory setting.
• Knowledge of laboratory biosafety and biosecurity and ability to assure relevant practice.
• Knowledge of basic mathematics and statistics; ability to make accurate calculations.
• Ability to read, follow, and interpret complex documents, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), and scientific publications.
• Skill in using computer applications such as Microsoft Office, spreadsheet, the Internet, and job-related databases (i.e., LIMS).

Communication and Interpersonal

• Verbal communication skills to present and convey information effectively.
• Written communication skills in order to document work and create reports.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse staff, external agencies, and clients.
• Ability to work cooperatively and fairly with people whose backgrounds may differ from one's own.
• Ability to work well both independently and as part of a synergistic professional team.
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations.

Judgment and Analysis

• Analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Judgment and decision-making skills.
• Planning, organizational, and time management skills.
• Ability to stay apprised of best practices in microbiology through ongoing professional development and continuing education activities.
• Ability to respond to sensitive inquiries and complaints effectively.
• Honesty, integrity, and ability to maintain patient and laboratory confidentiality.

The current salary range (Pay Range 2FN) is $61,409-$71,754 annually, and the resident incentive salary range for City of Milwaukee residents is $63,252-$73,907 annually. Appointment above the minimum is possible based upon level of experience and other qualifications and is subject to approval.

BENEFITS

The City of Milwaukee provides a comprehensive benefit program that includes the following:

• Defined Benefit Pension Plan
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
• Health and Dental Insurance
• Paid Parental Leave
• Comprehensive Wellness Program
• Onsite Clinic Services
• Onsite Employee Assistance Program
• Alternative Work Schedules
• Long Term Disability Insurance
• Group Life Insurance
• Tuition Benefits
• Paid Vacation
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Paid Sick Leave and other paid leaves
• Flexible Spending Arrangement
• Commuter Value Pass

THE SELECTION PROCESS will be job related and will consist of one or more of the following: an evaluation of education, experience and/or responses to supplemental questions; a written or performance test, a structured interview, or other assessment methods. The Department of Employee Relations reserves the right to call only the most qualified candidates to structured interviews and performance examinations. Structured interviews may include written exercises. Selection process component weights will be determined by further analysis of the job.

INITIAL FILING DATE - The selection process will be held as soon as practical after the deadline listed above. Receipt of applications may be discontinued at any time after this date without prior notice. However, recruitment may continue until the needs of the City have been met. Qualified applicants will be notified of the date, time, and place of the selection process components. Unless otherwise required by law, the City of Milwaukee will not provide alternative selection process dates or times. The applicant is responsible for attending all phases of the job selection process at the time and place designated by the City of Milwaukee.

APPLICATIONS and further information may be accessed by visiting www.jobapscloud.com/MIL.

• Applications should be submitted no later than the deadline listed above.
• If you would like assistance completing an application, please contact the Department of Employee Relations at (414) 286-3751 or staffinginfo@milwaukee.gov.
• The Department of Employee Relations is located in City Hall, 200 E Wells St, Room 706, Milwaukee, WI 53202.

EEO = 206

The City of Milwaukee values and encourages diversity and is an equal opportunity employer.