Molecular Scientist I - Goldbelt, Inc.

Summary:

Seeking a Molecular Scientist I with expertise in microbiology or a biological laboratory-based science.  The project requires the development and validation of environmental sample collection methods molecular-based methods for the detection of Salmonella enterica, E. coli O157:H7/non-O157:H7 STECs, and L. monocytogenes in environmental samples (air, water, soil), as well as standard microbiological analysis of pathogens in fresh cut produce and a wide variety of other commodities.

This position requires travel into the fields to directly apply the sampling methodologies to areas where regulated agricultural commodities are grown, most likely in California and Arizona, but also in other areas of the United States.

Essential Job Functions:

• Support the development and validation of environmental sample collection methodologies and transfer of those technologies to other scientists working on the project.
• Travel by air and automobile regularly and frequently to the study sites for collection.
• Support targeting, collection, and processing of numerous land and water-based environmental samples surveyed for the presence of bacterial pathogens associated with foodborne illness including E. coli O157:H7 and other STEC strains, Salmonella, and others.
• Conduct laboratory analysis of these samples once returned to the agency food microbiology laboratories including the application of PCR and other molecular techniques for screening of pathogens and more detailed microbiological analyses that involves culturing and plating microbes using conventional media and traditional microbial growth techniques.
• Participate in planning and coordination meetings related to the collection and analysis of environmental samples associated with the above-mentioned longitudinal studies.
• Provide monthly oral status reports and quarterly written status reports that document the work that has been accomplished.
• Shall be available to discuss with the TPOC any current or anticipated problems
• Provide occasional written summaries, in a laboratory notebook or electronic format, of specific experimental results from assigned studies as data and information are developed, to be reviewed on request by the TPOC for discussion, review and revision.
• Working with the TPOC, occasionally develop and present training to other division members on procedures/methods developed as part of the method development and validation process.
• Support investigations in applied research and method development projects for analysis of pathogens and to conduct field sample collection for environmental pathogens.
• Provide technical assistance to other scientists to facilitate collaborative experimentation and prepare reports.

Necessary Skills and Knowledge:

• Skilled in microbiological aseptic techniques
• Must have PCR and qPCR experience.
• Able to work well in a team and to manage a high throughput workload
• Detail oriented with strong documentation skills
• Enthusiastically serves customers and represents the laboratory well professionally
• Must be committed to continuous improvement
• Good verbal & written communication skills

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be willing to travel to other states for sample collections
• Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology or related science field with 1-3 years’ experience working with food borne pathogen collections.
• Must be skilled in sample collection
• Must be skilled in aseptic techniques, PCR, qPCR, & other lab techniques.
• Must be able to work in PPE, mask, gloves, lab coat, etc.
• Experience working with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

The salary range for this position is $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 annually.

Pay and Benefits
At Goldbelt, we value and reward our team's dedication and hard work. We provide a competitive base salary commensurate with your qualifications and experience. As an employee, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company matching, tax-deferred savings options, supplementary benefits, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.