What are the responsibilities and job description for the Microbiologist - Food, Enteric and STI Unit position at Michigan Public Health Institute (MPHI)?
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Title: Microbiologist - Food, Enteric and STI Unit
$25.03 - $42.18 / Posted Thru: 12/26/2025
Funding End Date: 09/30/2027
Location: 100% In-Person Lab – Lansing, Michigan
Purpose: This position functions as a microbiologist in the Microbiology section, specifically the Food, Enteric and STI unit of the Michigan Department of Health and Human services, Bureau of labs. This position processes specimens for bacterial and parasitic analysis and supports the diagnosis of human disease through bacteriological examination of isolates from blood, sputum, feces, urine, tissues, environmental and food samples associated with human disease. This includes microscopic examination and culture testing of specimen material, as well as conducting isolation and identification of culture isolates. Identification includes staining, biochemical, serologic, susceptibility, 16S sequencing, MALDI-TOF, real-time PCR and amplified genetic probe testing. This position requires knowledge of sterile techniques, laboratory safety, molecular testing practices, and analytical methods. Autoclave sterilization of waste and media, along with preventative maintenance of laboratory equipment are also main functions of this position. This position works with high consequence pathogens in BSL-3 laboratory space
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Duty 1 – 50% of time- Handle, process and test specimens for microbiological examination. This includes inoculating media, setting up slides, staining, biochemical testing, microscopy, serologic testing, MALDI-TOF, and qPCR testing. Additionally, operating and maintaining testing instruments and equipment within the Microbiology Section.
- Duty 2 – 10% of time- Independently completes quality control testing on reagents, test kits, and assays including control charting for molecular testing. Participates in proficiency testing for all testing performed according to CAP and ISO 17025 accreditation requirements. Participate in laboratory quality improvement teams and initiatives.
- Duty 3 - 10% of time- Evaluate, develop and implement laboratory methods and develop written laboratory procedures.
- Duty 4 - 25% of time- Assists in design and completion of food testing projects and project reporting, and other food related exercises and method validations.
- Duty 5 – 5% of time-Other work-related duties as required by management such as preparing chemical reagents, inventory supplies, and maintain testing instruments and equipment. Participate in studies and research activities.
- Always represent the best interests of MPHI and MDHHS.
- All other duties as assigned.
Qualifications/Requirements:
Education: Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Molecular Biology, or Biological Sciences
Experience: A minimum of one year of clinical laboratory and/or food testing.
Important Skills and Characteristics:
- Good communication skills.
- High level of organization, with attention to detail.
- Creativity and flexibility with initiative to complete work timely.
- Ability to provide programs with knowledgeable resources.
- Ability to work as a team member.
Work Environment and Physical Requirements: An employee working with specimens of human origin is required to employ “universal precautions” in the laboratory utilizing personal protection devices such as gloves, safety glasses, and lab coats to prevent contamination. Repetitive pipetting, walking, standing, bending, and lifting (limited to less than 40 pounds). Requires working for extended periods of time in a Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC) while wearing a full-length gown, eye protection, N-95 respirator or CAPR, and nitrile gloves. Works with incubators, water baths, chemical fume hoods and steam autoclaves. The ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.
RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE WORK OF OTHERS: No assigned responsibility.
IMPACT ON PROJECTS, SERVICES AND OPERATIONS: This position has a direct impact on the quality of services provided by MPHI to MDHHS. This person is a key member of the laboratory team. This person also ensures that the needs of the laboratory staff and external stakeholders are met in a timely manner and maintains professional relationships.
REQUIRED COMMUNICATION
Contact Person/Group
Frequency
Purpose
Supervisor
Daily
Supervision
Internal Partners
As Needed
Collaboration
External Stakeholders
As Needed
Collaboration
For purposes of employment standards, this classification is “Non-Exempt” from overtime provisions of the fair Labor Standards Act.
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MPHI is an EEO employer that participates with e-verify.
Salary : $25 - $42