11/30/2007 32430

MICROBIOLOGIST 3

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

An employee in this job supervises a group of professional and technical staff in a microbiological or biomedical laboratory program. Work includes training and supervising staff, reviewing and monitoring work, performing advanced specialized analytical work and providing technical assistance to co-workers and external organizations. Work is performed in accordance with scientific principles and modern procedures but with considerable independent judgment in the preparation of reports and the interpretation of test results. Work is reviewed by an administrative or professional supervisor through documentation reviews, results of quality control samples, written reports and direct observation.

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED: Supervises the work activities of a small group of professional and technical staff performing microbiological or biomedical laboratory work.

Performs advanced or specialized microbiological or biomedical laboratory techniques.

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

Performs the most difficult or advanced examinations and tests in specialized phases of microbiology or biomedicine.

Provides training in microbiological or other analytical techniques to laboratory staff.

Develops, implements and evaluates quality assurance and quality control practices.

Performs the full range of supervisory functions.

Employees in this job may participate in the performance of their subordinates’ work consistent with operational or organizational requirements.

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 the principles and practices of supervision.

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 and make comparative assessments.

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 examinations and tests with accuracy.

Ability to distinguish the color spectrum.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year as a Microbiologist 2;

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

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One year of professional laboratory work experience in microbiology, and 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.