Molecular Biologist jobs in Texas

Under the general supervision of the Virology and Immunology Branch Manager and under the technical guidance of the Clinical Virology Team Lead, performs complex procedures following standard protocols to isolate and identify viruses while using Biosafety Level 2 and 3 practices and procedures. Processes and identifies viruses using molecular methods, including real time RT-PCR. Performs testing in a manner which assures stringent quality assurance, accuracy, and efficiency. Assists in monitoring and maintaining quality assurance and workflow, and in the training of DSHS employees. Duties are performed with moderate latitude for the use of scientific knowledge, initiative, and independent judgment.

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. Performs nucleic acid extractions using both manual and automated methods and real time RT-PCR for the detection of viruses. Viruses include but are not limited to Influenza, COVID-19, Mumps, Measles, Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya. Follows standard operating procedures according to CAP and CLIA regulations for each assay. Follows appropriate safety protocols using both Biosafety level 2 and 3 practices. Determines additional testing needed and routes the specimens appropriately. Maintains accurate records of all work documenting on appropriate worksheets and enters the results into the lab information system (LIMS). Tracks the progress of specimens using the LIMS and other computer software such as Microsoft Excel. (45%)

EJF 2. Follows appropriate quality assurance processes to maintain a high quality of work. Performs instrument maintenance as needed following CAP and CLIA regulations. Maintains adequate supplies and reagents for virus isolation. Prepares other necessary reagents as needed including control stocks for molecular testing. Performs quality control testing on all media and reagents following CAP and CLIA regulations. Documents all quality control testing and validation performed on the media and reagents. Orders glassware as needed. (30%)

EJF 3. Trains and assists Senior Molecular Biologists and the Team Lead in training DSHS staff on testing procedures and other Viral Isolation activities as assigned. Aides the Senior Molecular Biologists and Team Lead in carrying out and in directing the workflow as assigned. Assists other staff in their duties and provides additional support to maintain a high quality of work. Notifies supervisory personnel of equipment malfunctions or test failures immediately, providing an assessment of the failure and making recommendations to prevent additional failures in the future. Provides additional training to co-workers and guest laboratorians as needed. Performs other tasks as assigned. (15%)



EJF 4. Assists in the development of new procedures under the direction of Senior Molecular Biologists and the Team Lead. Provides input to optimize efforts and documents all development work thoroughly. Reviews the literature on a regular basis and provides summaries to other employees of new techniques or research related to virus isolation/identification. Participates in continuing education opportunities on a regular basis including talks, satellite conferences, scientific conferences, or other appropriate opportunities to update and learn new techniques to be able to perform state of the art diagnostic work. (5%)



EJF 5. Based on your work area, consistently complies with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe, functioning laboratory. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in 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 alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. Participates in weekend, holiday, and after-hours testing as needed on a rotational basis. (5%)

Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of basic virology, microbiology, and molecular biology.

Knowledge of the procedures and equipment used in diagnostic molecular virology.

Skill to handle laboratory equipment and perform tasks safely and efficiently.

Ability to recognize, troubleshoot, and solve work area problems.

Experience in performing complex manual assays, with an ability to perform them with precision and careful attention to detail.

Ability to communicate effectively and professionally, both verbally and in writing, with coworkers, customers, and the general public.

Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

Ability to use various items of laboratory equipment.

Skills in the use of computer and software applications for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis, and results reporting.

Ability to use teamwork to coordinate and accomplish tasks and work in harmony with supervisors and peers.

Ability to work independently, organize daily workload and set priorities to routine work.

Ability to maintain accurate and detailed records.

Ability to follow standard operating procedures and protocols.

Experience with training others in test techniques.

Registration or Licensure Requirements:
N/A

Initial Selection Criteria:
Have an earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution; or

Have an earned associate’s degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution.

Experience and education may be substituted as defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88) Standards.

Experience performing molecular testing in a clinical setting and/or laboratory preferred but not required.

Laboratory experience identifying viruses and/or pathogenic organisms preferred but not required.

Additional Information:
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 Military Crosswalk at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/JobDescriptions.aspx.

Applicant is required to list all college level biology, microbiology, and chemistry courses on application showing the course name and number of semester hours. List of courses can be placed in “Special Training/Skills/Qualifications” section or in one of the “Employment History” spaces. Applicants with diplomas awarded in countries other than the US must contact Laboratory Personnel Services (512-776-7318) for an approved list of credentialing agencies.

Selectee will be immunized against rabies virus and other highly infectious agents, DSHS will provide and arrange for immunization.

Selectee must have no color vision problems.

Work schedule: Must be willing to work hours other than 8am-5pm. Duties may include weekend/holiday work as required and occasional travel to attend and/or present at professional meetings.

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 CAPPS 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.

MOS Code:
67B, 71A, 230X, 43TX

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.