Microbiologist - Bacteriologist #00291

Title: Microbiologist - Bacteriologist #00291

State Role Title: Scientist I

Hiring Range: $54,106 - $62,635 annually

Pay Band: 4

Agency: Virginia Department of Agriculture

Location: HARRISONBURG LAB-OFFICE

Agency Website: www.vdacs.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Division of Animal and Food Industry Services is seeking a qualified individual to provide diagnostic microbiology services to livestock and poultry producers through culture techniques and other diagnostic tests. The selected candidate will independently conduct, perform, and interpret microbiological tests necessary for the isolation and identification of veterinary pathogens at the Regional Animal Health Laboratory in Harrisonburg. Responsibilities include performing a variety of tests such as antibiotic susceptibility testing, cultures, parasitic examinations, fluorescent antibody assays, maintaining stock cultures of bacteria, biochemical evaluations of microorganisms, and quality control procedures. Accurate and legible recording, interpretation, and reporting of results are essential. The candidate will also be responsible for finalizing disciplines and accessioning data in the Laboratory Information System, verifying accuracy, and completing entries in a timely manner. Work will be planned and organized based on submission priorities. The role includes responding to inquiries related to laboratory services and the status of submitted samples. Additionally, the candidate will receive cross-training in areas such as molecular testing, serology, and dairy microbiology. Responsibilities include processing specimens from external clients and necropsies, preparing media according to testing requirements, and collaborating with team members to assist with other laboratory procedures as needed. Occasional minimal weekend work may be required.

Exposure to Rabies virus is a possibility in this position and prophylactic Rabies vaccination or check for protective titers will be required as a condition of employment due to the handling of animal specimens.

Minimum Qualifications

Considerable knowledge of a variety of microbiology and laboratory procedures with an emphasis on diagnostic bacteriology, molecular biology, and parasitology. Demonstrated computer proficiency to include basic office software and laboratory information management systems, along with sound analytical skills, and exceptional customer service and communication skills. Proven ability to follow oral and written directions with precision and accuracy; to work with technical equipment; to develop logical conclusions; and to work collaboratively within a team environment. Current or recent clinical and/or diagnostic veterinary or human medical microbiology, laboratory quality control, or regulatory experience desired along with experience working ISO 17025 or similar laboratory quality management system. Testing formats require precision, manual dexterity and visual acuity.

Additional Considerations

A combination of related education, training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills, and abilities to include knowledge of regulatory experience in animal health technology including bacteriology, parasitology and mycology, biology and microbiology, and work experience in a clinical microbiology laboratory.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

The Immigration Reform and Control Act requires that before we can legally employ an individual, we must verify both the identity and employment authorization of the individual. VDACS uses Form I-9 to satisfy this requirement. Form I-9, instructions, and the List of Acceptable Documents can be found at https://www.uscis.gov/i-9. VDACS does not offer sponsorship for employment purposes; therefore, the selected candidate will need to be able to provide acceptable documents in accordance with Form I-9 (use link above for more details). Additionally, VDACS participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. For additional assistance with this requirement, please contact hr.vdacs@vdacs.virginia.gov.

Final candidate must successfully complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check.

If you have been affected by DHRM Policy 1.30 Layoff and possess a valid Interagency Placement Screening Form (Yellow Card) or a Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Card), you must submit the card before the closing date for this position. The Card may be submitted with the state application as an attachment.

Contact Information

Name: Human Resources

Phone: N/A

Email: hr.vdacs@vdacs.virginia.gov

 

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.