Microbiologist - American Technology Consulting

MicrobiologistIndianapolis, IN (Onsite)ContractPurpose of Position/Summary: Incumbent is responsible for coordinating and performing the full range ofmicrobiological examinations and analyses including culture, biochemical tests,EIA, serotyping, PCR, and WGS of clinical specimens for isolation andidentification of enteric bacteria including but not limited to Salmonella,E.coli, Shigella, Vibrio, Listeria and Campylobacter. Incumbent will also beresponsible for the documentation of all quality control and quality assuranceactivities according to CLIA regulations. In addition, this position maycross-train in other areas of the lab that may include molecular,microbiological, viral, serological, and other techniques to support routinetesting and provide backup capacity. Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Incumbent will have in-depth knowledge and ability in the area of microbiologyand molecular biology and is able to perform laboratory associated assays or theability to learn these techniques upon successful completion of proficiencytesting. Representative duties include: • Conducting examinations of samples and/or reference samples for analyses suchas but not limited to, molecular detection or isolation and identification ofmicroorganisms/toxins or their antigens/nucleic acids. • Strictly follow the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling andprocessing, test analyses, reporting and maintaining records of patient testresults. • Extraction of nucleic acids from specimens, isolates, and samples via avariety of manual and automated methods; •Utilize molecular techniques such as, but not limited to, PCR, sequencing,MALDI-TOF, and WGS; • Evaluate, interpret, and validate laboratory results and reports findings. • Maintain laboratory record system of submitted samples and specimens andtheir possible referral. • Conduct quality control checks on laboratory methods, materials, andequipment in strict adherence to the laboratory's quality control policies. • Maintain an inventory of laboratory supplies and order as needed to ensuretesting needs are met. • Assist in preparations of epidemiological and/or statistical reports fromdata compiled on a daily, weekly, monthly, or annual basis. • Maintain competency in all trained areas. • Perform all 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 and processing, test analyses, reporting and maintaining records of patient test results; (2) Maintain records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient specimens; (3) Adhere to the laboratory’s quality control policies, document all quality control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed; (4) Follow the laboratory’s established policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory’s established acceptable levels of performance; (5) Be capable of identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results and either must correct the problems or immediately notify the general supervisor, technical supervisor, clinical consultant, or director; (6) Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the 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 wereperforming high complexity testing on or before January 19, 1993, the requirements of paragraph (b)(7) of this section are not effective, provided that all highcomplexity testing performed by the individual in the absence of a general supervisor is reviewed 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 proceduresand the ability to apply them when seeking solutions to public health laboratoryproblems; • Specialized knowledge of and ability to use a full range of standardtechnical equipment, complex scientific apparatus, and automated techniques ofanalysis; • Extensive knowledge of laboratory safety practices and principles; • Aware of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies concerningthe program area (i.e. CLIA); • Ability to meet requirements for personnel certification as a technologistpursuant to the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) • Ability to effectively communicate technical information both verbally and inwriting and maintain productive working relationships; • Ability to satisfactorily participate in proficiency testing programs andrecognize QA problems; • Ability to compile, analyze, evaluate, and prepare laboratory reports. Difficulty 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 requires use ofanalytical judgment and technical knowledge in order to draw accurate, logicalconclusions. Incumbent will also be required to develop and research new testingprocedures. Responsibility: Incumbent works independently as an expert in the assigned area. Technicaland/or detailed instruction is provided only upon request when necessitated by aprocedural change and/or special project. Incumbent maintains established safetypractices when working with materials that have a chemical hazard or biohazardpotential. Reports are reviewed for general technical accuracy; however, tasksare performed independently. Errors in work could adversely affect the health,safety and well being of the incumbent or coworkers. Personal Work Relationships: Incumbent works with supervisor and with other State Department of Health staffsuch as 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 required personal protective equipment can be cumbersome and awkward. Extraeffort and concentration will be necessary to perform routine laboratorymanipulations under these conditions. Working Conditions: The incumbent will be performing tests on potentially dangerous specimens.Consequently, safety standards are of primary importance. This position will berequired to use all appropriate personal protective equipment in the designatedlaboratory area. The laboratory space and equipment can experience a dramaticincrease in temperature. The incumbent will be required to work in theseconditions and maintain a clear thought process during the testing.