11/30/2007 32440

MICROBIOLOGY SERVICES MANAGER, DEP

DEFINITION: This is managerial work in directing the microbiology services program in the Department of Environmental Protection’s Bureau of Laboratories.

An employee in this job organizes, directs, coordinates and manages an analytical unit that performs analyses on a wide variety of environmental samples. Work involves developing, establishing and supervising the conduct of, or conducting, a training program for laboratory personnel to increase proficiency and develop professional skills. Work also involves conducting and directing the conduct of biological research to develop and implement new or improved laboratory testing methods or procedures. Work may involve testifying in Commonwealth courts as an expert witness on the tests conducted and results achieved by members of the laboratory. Work is performed independently but is reviewed by an administrative or professional supervisor through reports, conferences and observations for adherence to departmental policies and results achieved.

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED: Plans, organizes and manages the work of microbiologists and technicians in the conduct of microbiological, biological, parasitological, entomological and bioassay analyses for a variety of purposes.

Plans, organizes, coordinates and manages laboratory work to ensure adequacy and accuracy of testing and to achieve optimum utilization of available resources.

Plans, organizes and conducts or directs the conduct of on-the-job training programs to develop the professional and work skills and knowledge of laboratory personnel.

Plans and directs the conduct of applied research to develop new or improved methods, techniques and procedures for laboratory analysis.

Testifies in Commonwealth courts as an expert witness, as required.

Determines operational needs, prepares laboratory budget recommendations and prepares preliminary purchasing specifications to maintain and develop the laboratory capabilities and services.

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 the principles and practices of supervision.

Knowledge of processes to develop the methods and procedures to be followed in the analysis of an extensive variety of substances and materials.

Skill in the use and care of laboratory equipment and materials including immunofluorescent microscopy, phase contrast microscopy, transmitted light interference microscopy, electronic particle counters, spectrophotometers, micro-analytical balances, and microcomputers.

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 microbiological examinations and tests.

Ability to distinguish the color spectrum.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year as a Microbiologist 3;

                                                                                                                                                                       or

Three 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;

                                                                                                                                                                       or

Two years of professional laboratory work experience in microbiology, and a graduate degree in microbiology.