The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) seeks an experienced Microbiologist to join the STI and Mycobacteriology Division. This role performs complex immunologic and molecular tests to identify pathogenic bacteria and viruses of both clinical and public health importance. Diagnostic testing in this group includes detection and identification of sexually transmitted disease pathogens, including HIV, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhea, Hepatitis C, and syphilis. This role will perform related duties as required to include but not limited to participation/contribution to LIMS implementation and processes associated with building renovation. Learn more about what it’s like to work at the State Public Health Lab. Please note: This position is expected to report to the office five (5) days per week. _Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):_ * Perform specimen accessioning, determination of accept/reject criteria, and initiate sample analysis using sound scientific practice and technical skills. * Perform microbiological, immunological, and molecular biology test methods on human clinical specimens. * Follow the quality management program requirements to ensure that all certification and accreditation requirements, including training and competency, are met. * Communicate with submitters according to procedures regarding specimen collection, packaging, shipping, and transportation of specimens transported to the laboratory. * Perform quality control activities including verification or validation, routine quality control, and proficiency testing, as assigned. * Maintain laboratory equipment and report equipment problems according to procedures. * Comply with agency policy regarding safety, security, and protection in the working environment in accordance with the laboratory’s procedures and policies for biological, chemical, and radiologic agents. * Perform all laboratory work (e.g., testing procedures, safety protocols, quality assurance protocols) according to written standard operating procedures. * Report results accurately and completely within the laboratory information management system(s). * Participate and respond to emergency events. * Operate laboratory instruments in accordance with SOPs. * Maintains records for all testing performed. * Apply concepts and theories relevant to specific tests that are being conducted. * Evaluate quality control data prior to reporting results. * Assist with maintenance of inventory of laboratory supplies and equipment by determining when such supplies, equipment and chemicals must be ordered. * Perform testing and prepare results for subsequent secondary review and release following verification by a Microbiologist of a higher grade. * Complies with all safety and security protocols. * Performs related duties as required to include but not limited to participation/contribution to LIMS implementation and processes associated with building renovation. _Required Qualifications:_ * Knowledge of the concepts and theories of microbiology, immunology, and molecular biology. * Awareness of basic microbiological, immunological, and molecular biology techniques. These include knowledge of basic microbial culture techniques, biochemical tests, serology, sequencing, and nucleic acid-based detection assays. * Familiarity of the quality assurance practices (e.g., equipment maintenance, proficiency testing, method validation, staff competency, following standard operating procedures) specific to microbiology, immunological, and molecular biology test methods in a diagnostic setting. * Ability to perform calculations, measurements and unit conversion calculations. * Understanding of the principles and policies governing professional ethics and rules of conduct. * Skilled to effectively and professionally communicate orally and in writing and prepare concise technical reports. * Ability to follow work instructions and either work independently or in a team environment. * Knowledge of laboratory certifications and accreditations to ensure adherence to certification and accreditation requirements to meet regulatory requirements. _Preferred Qualifications:_ * Ability to explain the provisions of the laws, rules and regulations governing a microbiology laboratory. * Willingness to work under conditions of potential exposure to infectious agents. * Willingness to sign a confidentiality statement upon hire. _About the Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences (BIDLS):_ The DPH Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences (BIDLS), predominantly located in Jamaica Plain, provides public health response to infectious disease. These services include programmatic and epidemiologic response, as well as laboratory testing through the State Public Health Laboratory (SPHL). Infectious disease response services address concerns of the general public as well as those disproportionately affected by infectious disease through a variety of risk factors. BIDLS administers ongoing disease reporting for over 90 reportable diseases in the state. Disease reporting review and follow-up with clinical providers and local boards of health is a central function of the bureau. Surveillance activity is complemented by an extensive contracted service system. These services are funded through state and federal resources and include prevention education, community outreach screening for infectious disease, immunization services, health service navigation, medical case management, insurance enrollment, housing assistance, and referral and linkage to infectious disease treatment. The SPHL provides scientific expertise and capacity to identify infectious agents, chemical agents, and other toxins that cause human disease. The SPHL is an active partner in joint activities with other bureaus/agencies such as environmental health, food and drug, agriculture, disease prevention and health promotion programs, and public safety. The SPHL is a reference laboratory of the national Laboratory Response Network (LRN) and is a U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Select Agent laboratory. SPHL staff work closely with laboratory and disease prevention programs at the CDC, and partners with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). _About the Department of Public Health:_ The mission of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is to prevent illness, injury, and premature death, to assure access to high quality public health and health care services, and to promote wellness and health equity for all people in the Commonwealth. We envision a Commonwealth in which all people enjoy optimal health. Massachusetts ranks among the healthiest of states according to comparative analyses, but we face numerous challenges, including chronic and infectious disease, substance abuse, violence, preventable hospitalizations, and health disparities. DPH coordinates programs and policies to address specific diseases and conditions and offer services to address the needs of vulnerable populations. We also develop, implement, promote, and enforce regulations and policies to assure that the conditions under which people live are most conducive to health and enable people to make healthy choices for themselves and their families. We license health professionals, healthcare facilities and a variety of businesses that impact public health. We operate the state laboratory and four public health hospitals. We monitor health status and manage vital records including births, marriages and deaths. We educate people about public health issues and work closely with local boards of health and community partners to identify and solve public health problems. More information can be found at: Department of Public Health | Mass.gov _Pre-Hire Process:_ A criminal background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to the candidate being hired. For more information, please visit http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law and may be published on the Commonwealth’s website. If you require assistance with the application/interview process and would like to request an ADA accommodation, please click on the link and complete the ADA Reasonable Accommodation Request Form* * For questions regarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800- 510-4122 Ext. #4 First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. Minimum Entrance Requirements: Applicants must have (A) at least two (2) years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional, or academic research experience in microbiology, molecular biology, or medical laboratory technology or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below. Based on assignment, applicants must meet related Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) requirements for High Complexity Testing. Incumbents may be required to have a current and valid motor vehicle driver's license at a class level specific to assignment. Substitutions: I. An Associate's degree in microbiology, molecular biology, biology, or medical laboratory technology may substitute for one (1) year of the required experience. II. A Bachelor's or higher degree with a major in microbiology, molecular biology, biology, medical laboratory technology or equivalent scientific field may substitute for the required experience. *Comprehensive Benefits* When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future. Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards! An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role. Job: Science* *Organization: Department of Public Health *Title: *Microbiologist Location: Massachusetts-Boston-305 South Street Requisition ID: 24000574