11/30/2007 32420

MICROBIOLOGIST 2

DEFINITION: This is advanced professional work in the field of microbiology in a base laboratory or mobile laboratory setting.

An employee in this job uses advanced microbiological and biomedical laboratory techniques in the examination of samples and specimens and may direct the work activities of a small group of professional and technical staff performing microbiological and biomedical laboratory work. Work includes the development and implementation of new methods and techniques. Work is differentiated from the lower level by the independent responsibility for conducting research to develop and modify testing methods and procedures and performing advanced microbiological analysis through the use of advanced testing procedures and equipment. Work is performed independently but is subject to periodic review by a supervisor through documentation reviews, results of quality control samples, written reports and direct observation.

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED: Performs advanced or specialized microbiological and biomedical laboratory techniques.

Conducts specialized microbiological or biomedical analyses to detect and characterize infectious disease agents from human and animal specimens.

Conducts advanced instrumental analysis, interprets and evaluates tests and prepares reports of analysis.

Conducts research to develop or implement new laboratory techniques, testing methods and procedures.

Conducts microbiological and biomedical studies to identify problems and formulate solutions.

Leads and reviews the work activities of a small group of professional and technical staff performing microbiological or biomedical laboratory work.

Provides training in microbiological and other analytical techniques to laboratory staff and industry personnel.

Maintains instrument systems by performing preventative maintenance and troubleshooting the cause and correction of instrument malfunction.

Develops and implements new microbiological or biomedical methods or modifies existing methods.

Develops and implements quality assurance and quality control practices.

Performs on-site evaluations of all areas of external environmental laboratories including qualifications of laboratory personnel, instrumentation, quality control, laboratory management practices and other factors to determine compliance with federal and state regulations regarding accredited laboratories.

Performs on-site evaluations of commercial and industry milk testing laboratories including qualifications of analysts, instruments, facilities and quality control documentation to determine compliance with federal and state regulations regarding accredited laboratories.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of principles and practices of microbiology and related fields.

Knowledge of laboratory safety.

Knowledge of modern laboratory methods, equipment and materials.

Knowledge of quality assurance and quality control principles and practices.

Knowledge of reference sources of information and current literature in the field of microbiology and biomedicine.

Knowledge of leading project teams.

Knowledge of processes to develop, validate and implement new methods and procedures.

Ability to perform standard laboratory operations using safety equipment.

Ability to perform complex calculations to yield final results.

Ability to prepare scientifically accurate and thorough reports of work performed.

Ability to read.

Ability to effectively communicate orally.

Ability to effectively communicate in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to perform a variety of microbiological or biomedical analyses with accuracy.

Ability to perform microbiological examinations and tests.

Ability to distinguish the color spectrum.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year as a Microbiologist 1;

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One year of professional laboratory work experience in microbiology, and a bachelor’s degree that includes 20 credits in microbiology, cellular biology, molecular biology or bacteriology and 12 credits in chemistry or biochemistry;

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A graduate degree in microbiology.

CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT: Certain positions will require possession of a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license.

Certain positions will require the successful completion of a background risk assessment check.