Microbiologist

Position Summary

The incumbent is responsible for coordinating and performing a full range of microbiological examinations and analyses, including:

• Culture-based testing
• Biochemical testing
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
• Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS)

Testing will be performed on clinical specimens for the isolation and identification of bacterial and fungal pathogens, including but not limited to:

• Escherichia coli (E. coli)
• Klebsiella pneumoniae
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa
• Acinetobacter baumannii
• Candida auris

The position is also responsible for documenting all Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) activities in accordance with CLIA regulations. Cross-training may be required in additional laboratory disciplines, including molecular, microbiological, virological, and serological testing to support routine operations and provide backup coverage.

Key Responsibilitie

sMicrobiology & Molecular Testin

• gPerform examinations and analyses of clinical and reference specimens
• .Isolate, identify, and characterize microorganisms and their nucleic acids
• .Extract nucleic acids using manual and automated methods
• .Perform molecular testing including
• :PC
• RSequencin
• gMALDI-TO
• FWhole Genome Sequencing (WGS
• )Evaluate, interpret, validate, and report laboratory findings

.Specimen & Data Managemen

• tFollow established procedures for
• :Specimen receip
• tHandling and processin
• gTest analysi
• sResult reportin
• gRecord maintenanc
• eMaintain laboratory information and specimen tracking systems
• .Coordinate sample referrals when required

.Quality Assurance & Complianc

• eConduct quality control checks on methods, equipment, and materials
• .Document
• :QC activitie
• sEquipment maintenanc
• eCalibration
• sCorrective action
• sEnsure compliance with
• :CLIA regulation
• sLaboratory quality policie
• sSafety standard

sLaboratory Operation

• sMonitor laboratory supply inventory
• .Order supplies as necessary to maintain testing capability
• .Participate in proficiency testing programs
• .Maintain competency in all assigned testing areas

.Reporting & Analysi

• sCompile and analyze laboratory data
• .Assist with epidemiological and statistical reporting
• .Prepare daily, weekly, monthly, and annual laboratory reports

.Additional Dutie

• sCross-train in other laboratory sections as needed
• .Support development and implementation of new testing procedures
• .Perform related duties as assigned

.CLIA High-Complexity Testing Responsibilitie

sTesting personnel are responsible for specimen processing, testing, and reporting results. Responsibilities include

• :Following established laboratory procedures
• .Maintaining proficiency testing records
• .Adhering to QC policies and documentation requirements
• .Performing calibrations and maintenance
• .Identifying testing issues and notifying supervisors when necessary
• .Documenting corrective actions
• .Performing only authorized high-complexity testing within training and competency limits

.Required Qualifications & Skill

sTechnical Knowledg

• eExtensive knowledge of
• :Microbiology principles and practice
• sRelated microbiological subspecialtie
• sLaboratory safety principle
• sKnowledge of
• :Current scientific testing methodologie
• sPublic health laboratory practice
• sCLIA regulations and compliance requirement
• sExperience with
• :Bacterial culture and isolation technique
• sAseptic microbiological and molecular laboratory practice
• sLaboratory instrumentation and automated testing system

sProfessional Skill

• sStrong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• .Ability to interpret and evaluate laboratory data
• .Strong verbal and written communication skills
• .Ability to prepare technical and laboratory reports
• .Ability to maintain productive working relationships
• .Ability to participate successfully in proficiency testing programs

.Highly Desired Qualification

• sBachelor's Degree (BA/BS) in Biological Sciences or related fiel
• d2 years of high-complexity laboratory experienc
• eExperience providing oversight of daily high-complexity testing activitie

sWork Environmen

tDifficulty of Wor

• kScientific analyses involve complex variables and unusual specimens
• .Requires independent judgment and advanced technical expertise
• .May require research and development of new testing methodologies

.Responsibility Leve

• lFunctions independently as a subject matter expert
• .Receives guidance primarily for procedural changes or special projects
• .Work is reviewed for overall technical accuracy
• .Errors may impact laboratory operations, public health outcomes, and workplace safety

.Working Relationship

sCollaborates with

• :Laboratory supervisor
• sLaboratory Safety Office
• rIndiana Department of Health staf
• fLocal health department
• sExternal stakeholders and public health partner

sPhysical Requirement

• sMust wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• .Requires precision laboratory work while wearing PPE
• .May work in elevated-temperature laboratory environments

.Working Condition

• sExposure to potentially hazardous biological specimens
• .Strict adherence to laboratory safety protocols is required
• .Must maintain concentration and accuracy while handling biohazardous materials