Microbiologist - American Technology Consulting

Title: - MicrobiologistLocation: 550 W 16th St Ste BMarion County, Indianapolis, IN 46202Interview:- In-personPurpose of Position/Summary:Incumbent is responsible for performing the full range of examinations andanalyses, recording, interpreting, and result reporting of tests on human bodyfluids, tissues (human and animal), clinical specimens, microbiologicalisolates, or environmental samples submitted to the biological preparednesslaboratory area.Essential Duties/Responsibilities:This position is part of the Indiana Department of Health Laboratory, BiologicalPreparedness Program and will have in-depth knowledge and ability to performlaboratory associated assays or the ability to learn these techniques uponsuccessful completion of proficiency testing. Representative duties include:• conducting examination of samples and/or reference samples for analyses suchas, but not limited to, serological analysis or isolation and identification ofmicroorganisms/toxins or their antigens/nucleic acids;• maintains laboratory record system of submitted samples & specimens and theirpossible referral;• evaluates, interprets, and validates laboratory results and reports findings;• develops and maintains specimen inventory storage systems;• conducts quality control checks on laboratory methods, materials, andequipment;• assists with preparation of epidemiological and/or statistical reports fromdata compiled on a daily, weekly, monthly, or annual basis;• participates in evaluation of new products used in clinical/referencelaboratory work;• performs related work as required;Testing personnel responsibilities (493.1495 Standard)The testing personnel are responsible for specimen processing, test performanceand for reporting test results.(a) Each individual performs only those high complexity tests that areauthorized by the laboratory director and require a degree of skill commensuratewith the individual’s education, training or experience, and technicalabilities.(b) Each individual performing high complexity testing must—(1) Follow the laboratory’s procedures for specimen handling andprocessing, test analyses, reporting and maintaining records of patienttest results;(2) Maintain records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples aretested in the same manner as patient specimens;(3) Adhere to the laboratory’s quality control policies, document all qualitycontrol activities, instrument and procedural calibrations andmaintenance performed;(4) Follow the laboratory’s established policies and procedures whenevertest systems are not within the laboratory’s established acceptable levelsof performance;(5) Be capable of identifying problems that may adversely affect testperformance or reporting of test results and either must correct theproblems or immediately notify the general supervisor, technicalsupervisor, clinical consultant, or director;(6) Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate fromthe laboratory’s established performance specifications; and(7) Except as specified in paragraph (c) of this section, if qualified under §493.1489(b)(5), perform high complexity testing only under the onsite,direct supervision of a general supervisor qualified under § 493.1461.(c) Exception. For individuals qualified under § 493.1489(b)(5), who wereperforminghigh complexity testing on or before January 19, 1993, the requirements ofparagraph (b)(7) of this section are not effective, provided that all highcomplexitytesting performed by the individual in the absence of a general supervisor isreviewed within 24 hours by a general supervisor qualified under § 493.1461.Job Requirements:• extensive knowledge of the principles, theories and practices of microbiologyand related sub- specialties;• specialized knowledge of current scientific methods and testing procedures andthe ability to apply them when seeking solutions to public health laboratoryproblems;• specialized knowledge of and ability to use a full range of standard technicalequipment, complex scientific apparatus, and automated techniques of analysis;• extensive knowledge of laboratory safety practices and principles;• aware of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies concerningthe program area (i.e. CLIA);• 2 years of high complexity laboratory experience as testing personnel, and thetraining required to provide oversight of the daily performance of highcomplexity testing in the specific area in which they work• ability to effectively communicate technical information both verbally and inwriting and maintain productive working relationships;• ability to satisfactorily participate in proficiency testing programs;• ability to compile, analyze, evaluate, and prepare laboratory reports.Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:N/ADifficulty of Work:Incumbent is engaged in scientific analyses that demand accuracy anddemonstrated proficiency in applying laboratory analytical skills to selectpertinent guidelines and formulated plans for problem solving. Projects involvemany complex variables of great intricacy and the microbiologist is often calledupon to analyze and identify unusual specimens/samples. Work requiresconsiderable use of analytical judgement and technical knowledge in order todraw accurate, logical conclusions. Incumbent will also be required to developand research new testing procedures.Responsibility:Incumbent works independently as an expert in the Biothreat laboratory.Technical and/or detailed instruction is provided only upon request when aprocedural change and/or special project necessitates it. Incumbent maintainsestablished safety practices when working with materials that have a chemicalhazard or biohazard potential. Reports are reviewed for general technicalaccuracy; however, tasks are performed independently. Errors in work couldadversely affect the health, safety and well being of the incumbent orcoworkers.Personal Work Relationships:Incumbent works with supervisor and with other Department of Health staff suchas Laboratory Safety Officer and/or external entities (e.g. local healthdepartments, etc.) to devise and implement work procedures and informationdissemination. Individual will have contact with employees and the public as alaboratory expert and in the explanation of laboratory procedures andrecommendations when appropriate.Physical Effort:The incumbent will be performing tests on potentially dangerous samples (e.g.anthrax). Because of this, safety standards are of primary importance. Thisposition will be required to use all appropriate personal protective equipmentin the designated laboratory area.Working Conditions:The equipment can be cumbersome and awkward; the laboratory space can experiencea dramatic increase in temperature. The incumbent will be required to work inthese conditions and maintain a clear thought process during the testing.