Microbiologist I

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
MICROBIOLOGIST I

Location: DNREC- Division of Water Deadline: April 25, 2025
Environmental Laboratory Section Salary: $48,182.25
Richardson & Robbins Building
Dover, DE 19901

This is not a State of Delaware merit position. It is a one-year contractual position with the potential
to extend.

The Kent Conservation District (KCD), a governmental subdivision of the State of Delaware, is seeking
applicants for the contractual services position of Microbiologist I with the Delaware Department of
Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), Division of Water- Environmental Laboratory
Section.

JOB SUMMARY
The selected candidate will perform entry level, routine microbiological, and other laboratory tests and
analysis. The primary responsibilities of this position will be to prepare, process, and analyze samples for
various microbiological and molecular methodologies. This position will also conduct sampling of
ground, surface, and waste waters, which also includes sampling activities on a boat. All work is
performed under the supervision of a technical supervisor.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Essential functions are fundamental, core functions and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all
job duties.

• Prepares, processes, and analyzes samples using various microbiological methodologies for

• Prepares, processes, and analyzes samples for algal toxin and environmental DNA (eDNA)

• Conducts sampling for various sections within the DNREC Environmental laboratory (ELS).
• Performs Quality Assurance and Quality Control tasks in accordance with FDA and NELAP

Scientists to develop and implement complex environmental projects to evaluate best
management practices to protect/remediate water quality, habitat, living resources, and human
health.

JOB REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must have the following:

1. Possession of an associate’s degree or higher in Life or Physical Science or related field.
2. Knowledge of laboratory procedures for preparation, isolation, identification or characterization of
viruses, parasites, bacteria or metabolic disorders.
3. Knowledge of applying Universal Safety Precautions for laboratories.
4. Knowledge of analyzing and evaluating scientific data.
5. Knowledge of technical report writing.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
The intent of the listed knowledge, skills and abilities is to give a general indication of the core
requirements for the position class; therefore, the KSA's listed are not exhaustive.

• Knowledge of principles and practices of biological/microbiological sciences.
• Knowledge of standard microbiological, serological and immunological testing and analysis.
• Knowledge of the use and care of laboratory instruments, equipment, media and reagents.
• Knowledge of universal safety precautions for laboratories.
• Knowledge of methods and techniques of statistical analysis.
• Knowledge of quality assurance and quality control guidelines and procedures.
• Ability to prepare specimens and reagents for examination.
• Ability to maintain sterile living cell lines.
• Ability to analyze and interpret test results.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to keep accurate records and prepare statistical reports.
• Ability to follow written procedures.
• Ability to operate a computer to store, retrieve and/or analyzes data.
  

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

1. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The Conservation District
participates in the Federal E-Verify system to confirm you are authorized to work in the U.S. The
Conservation District does not provide sponsorship for holders of H-1B Visas.

2. Direct Deposit of paychecks is required of all new employees.

BENEFITS
The Kent Conservation District offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: 37.5-hour work week
with flexible scheduling options, 9.5 hours per month of accrued vacation leave and 9.5 hours per month
of accrued sick leave (prorated the first month of employment), and 11 paid holidays per year (holidays
and floating holidays follow the State of Delaware schedule.) Health insurance and pension are also
included in the benefits package.

The Kent Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce.

TO APPLY
Please email cover letter, resume, and Kent Conservation District Application to:
Jamie L. Willey, MBA
DNREC District HR Manager
Jamie.L.Willey@delaware.gov
(302) 608-5478

Application may be downloaded from the Kent Conservation District Employment Opportunities website:
KCD Website