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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania |
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POSITION DESCRIPTION FOR JOB POSTING |
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Position Number: 00082682 |
Description Activated On: 7/15/2026 8:30:55 AM |
Position Purpose: Describe the primary purpose of this position and how it contributes to the organization’s objectives. Example: Provides clerical and office support within the Division to ensure its operations are conducted efficiently and effectively. Safeguarding public health from infectious agents and the diseases that threaten the well-being of communities, this role is key for this public health laboratory position. The Department of Health, Bureau of Laboratories, plays a critical role in the prevention and control of SARS-CoV-2 along with other infectious agents in Pennsylvania. This position will help support the CDC-lead National Wastewater Surveillance System, as well as provide support to the larger Virology and Immunology Division. |
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Description of Duties: Describe in detail the duties and responsibilities assigned to this position. Descriptions should include the major end result of the task. Example: Types correspondence, reports, and other various documents from handwritten drafts for review and signature of the supervisor. Perform molecular techniques using real-time or digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for qualitative/quantitative detections of SARS-CoV-2 on clinical and environmental samples (wastewater surveillance). This includes the use of automated extraction platforms, reagents preparation, and the use of thermal cyclers to ensure rapid detection. Perform pre-analytical checks and water concentration processing steps such as filtering or centrifugation. Perform quality assurance checks in the analytical phase using the quality controls and internal controls and post analytical testing in interpretation and troubleshooting to ensure the accuracy of the test. Perform and evaluate new diagnostic procedures to determine the performance characteristics and/or suitability for this laboratory. Evaluate performance of new procedures, methods, equipment and reagents used in the testing when need to be improved or changed, including reading principles, protocols, performing validations, and analyzing results. Use laboratory information management system (LIMS) to accession specimens, manage the samples through the testing processes, and report the laboratory testing results to ensure timely reporting to laboratory and public health partners. Participate in proficiency testing to ensure and maintain high quality standards of testing for molecular detection of different viruses, and typing and subtyping to ensure compliance with CLIA regulations. Perform quality control checks on equipment, reagents, controls, and procedures to ensure the reliability of test results and protect the health of the public. Follow Bureau Quality Control and Quality Assurance Policies to ensure accurate results and outstanding customer service. Perform direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) microscopy using rabies-specific conjugates; Interpret slides using a fluorescent microscope. Perform real-time PCR testing for rabies virus detection, including sample extraction, reagent preparation, instrument operation, run monitoring, and result interpretation. Perform serological testing (e.g., ELISA) for measles, rubella, West Nile Virus, and Lyme disease. Perform QuantiFERON testing for tuberculosis (TB) infection. Provide technical support to submitting agencies and program office about specimen collections and Laboratory testing procedures to ensure the proper collection of the specimens in facilities and local Public Health laboratories. Engage in educational activities aimed to increase technical knowledge and skills through literature searches and attendance at conferences. Share with colleagues the information gained from external training opportunities to ensure that all staff have current up-to-date information. Adhere to safety policies as described in the Bureau of Laboratories Policy Manual, Chemical Hygiene Plan, and Bloodborne Pathogens Plan to ensure personal safety and the safety of others within the Bureau. |
Decision Making: Describe the types of decisions made by the incumbent of this position and the types of decisions referred to others. Identify the problems or issues that can be resolved at the level of this position, versus those that must be referred to the supervisor. Example: In response to a customer inquiry, this work involves researching the status of an activity and preparing a formal response for the supervisor’s signature. Decision making is made based on defined standards or the proper professional/technical discipline. The position independently performs laboratory testing in compliance with CLIA regulations. The supervisor periodically reviews on-going work progress and results of some assignments. New assignments are performed independently based on knowledge of standards and procedures. The position establishes the sequence of daily activities, unless otherwise instructed. The position decides when retesting of a specimen is in order and interprets and reports routine test results. The position consults with supervisor before rejecting a specimen, when interpreting and reporting aberrant test results, when receiving a request for test results from a third party, and before amending established testing procedures. |
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Requirements Profile: Identify any specific experience or requirements, such as a licensure, registration, or certification, which may be necessary to perform the functions of the position. Position-specific requirements should be consistent with a Special Requirement or other criteria identified in the classification specification covering this position. Example: Experience using Java; Professional Engineer License Experience: Licenses, registrations, or certifications: 1. N/A 2. N/A 3. N/A 4. 5. 6. |
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Essential Functions: Provide a list of essential functions for this position. Example: Transports boxes weighing up to 60 pounds.
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