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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania |
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POSITION DESCRIPTION FOR JOB POSTING |
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Position Number: 50696750 |
Description Activated On: 9/15/2026 9:14:28 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. This is a microbiologist position assigned to perform molecular biology applications and microbiological diagnosis in a Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. |
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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. Performs molecular tests for determining the presence of the genetic sequences of infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and parasites) including avian influenza in laboratory specimens. Specimens types include organs and tissues to detect the presence of bacteria and viruses. Employee is responsible for maintaining logs, abiding by current lab procedures, and accurately maintaining logs for traceability of kits and reagents used. Performs extraction of DNA and RNA from infectious organisms, including zoonotic agents. Analyzes extracted samples by molecular assays including polymerase chain reaction (PCR), reverse transcriptase PCR. The procedures are performed using standard molecular diagnostic techniques and assays. The incumbent participates in proficiency testing and Inter-Laboratory Comparison Exercises. The incumbent documents and maintains all information related to specimen testing including results in laboratory notebooks or worksheets. The incumbent enters, verifies and reports the test results via the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Prepares reagents, buffers and solutions for molecular applications. Calculates concentrations, conducts serial dilutions and measurements, and prepares solutions and reagents (master mixes). Prepares and stores all the molecular reagents under suitable conditions. Responsibilities also include ordering and maintaining a stock of reagents used for the testing. Uses sterile and clean aseptic techniques under recommended bio-safety conditions. Sets up, calibrates, operates, cleans, and maintains laboratory equipment in good working condition. Maintains cleanliness in the laboratory. Contributes to routine housekeeping tasks such as disposal of biohazard waste, operation of autoclaves, routine maintenance of emergency shower equipment and emergency eyewash equipment. Responsible for completing the assigned tasks in the laboratory. Failure to act results in diagnostic work being delayed for reporting. Quality Assurance Participates in the program of quality assurance and quality control as applied to the services and tests offered. Follows standard operating procedures (SOP). Assists in the preparation, re-evaluation and updating of SOPs. Assists the laboratory quality management unit in development of standards and also maintains quality control records of all testing. The employee is responsible for duties related to the laboratory’s quality system. The quality system includes all aspects of compliance with the requirements of laboratory accreditation by the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians. Other Responsibilities Helps with shipping of infectious organisms when needed and other duties as required. In the case of a high consequence disease outbreak, the incumbent can be required to avoid contact with susceptible species at home or venues outside of work duties for a period as determined by best current science and department guidelines. |
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. Supervision is provided by the Manager who gives technical instructions. Work is evaluated through observation of the work being performed and through monitoring the results produced. Results are confirmed by occasional repeats of tests performed. Develops solutions to problems in the work area. Consults Manager on problem cases and in any atypical circumstances where procedures have not been clearly defined. Assumes increasing responsibility for independent work with minimal supervision. |
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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. N/A 5. N/A 6. N/A |
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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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