Microbiologist 2 (780570)

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

This position is under the direct supervision of a Microbiology Supervisor. The candidate communicates and collaborates regularly with the Supervisor, Division Director, and laboratory team members.

The Microbiologist 2 specific duties are as follows:

· Perform culture to isolate and identify bacteria, with emphasis on HAI organisms including, but not limited to, carbapenemase producing Enterobacterales, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Group A Streptococcus, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Candida auris with the use of the Vitek Compact 2 to ensure rapid detection of highly resistant bacterial strains involved in healthcare-associated infections. Perform matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) for bacterial identification using species-specific protein compositions. The use of the MALDI-TOF method for bacterial identification includes harvesting, extraction, and derivatization procedures to ensure the proper identification of the infectious agents.

· Perform drug susceptibility testing using the broth microdilution for minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and disk diffusion methods to provide results for the proper antibiotic treatment, control prevention, and surveillance data. MALDI and Vitek will be utilized for bacterial identification. Testing requires standardization of the broth suspension, purity and proper age of the bacterial isolate, drug preparation, proper drug inoculation, proper dilution of inoculum, incubation, prevention of contamination during set-up, and interpretation of results using CLSI guidelines.

· Use real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocol for the qualitative detection of specific pathogenic resistant mutation mechanism by means of extraction techniques, sample preparation, reagent preparation and use of a thermal cycler to ensure rapid detection for disease control and prevention efforts. Perform quality control checks on equipment, reagents, and procedures to assure the reliability of test results. Also perform fully automated Cepheid Infinity for colonization screening.

· Perform basic steps supporting whole genome sequencing (WGS) activities on infectious agents including genomic library preparation, utilizing sequencing related instrumentation and QC/troubleshooting.

· Use light microscope with Gram stain method for the detection of gram-negative or gram-positive in reference bacterial cultures to ensure proper identification and accurate 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 clients 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.

· Evaluate new diagnostic procedures to determine the performance characteristics and/or the suitability for this laboratory’s needs through literature searches. Perform studies to improve the efficiency of testing public health-related pathogens to ensure the state-of-the-art methods are in use, and perform verification or validation activities to implement appropriate laboratory test methods per BOL policies and CLIA regulations

· Follow Bureau Quality Control and Quality Assurance Policies to ensure accurate results and outstanding customer service.

· Provide technical consultation and training on technical matters for new laboratory employees, public health agencies, students, and PA clinical microbiology laboratories to ensure their understanding of bacteriology and mycology testing and surveillance.

· Prepare, package and ship outsource tests ensuring all referral testing is performed.

· Provide customer service via telephone to submitting agencies by providing timely laboratory results and laboratory status update that aid in the decisions about diagnosis, effective treatments, and control efforts.

· Provide technical support to submitting agencies about specimen collections, storage and transport conditions, and Laboratory testing procedures to ensure the proper collection of the specimens in facilities and Public Health Local laboratories.

· Engage in educational activities aimed to increase technical knowledge and skills through literature searches and attendance at conferences. Shares with colleagues the information gained from external training opportunities to ensure that all staff has current 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.

· Perform other related duties as required.

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

The DOH reserves the right to reject or remove any unqualified contract staff if they cannot perform their duties at an acceptable level. The supplier is expected to replace the contract staff ASAP depending on the needs of DOH.

DRESS CODE

ID must always be worn and must be visible used for entering and exiting the building. The Microbiologists shall dress in a manner that follows laboratory best practices and professionalism; typically, in a “business casual” style.

ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS

· Interacts with team members and stakeholders using professional communication skills.

· Provides clear, concise, and comprehensive written work.

· Uses Skype, Zoom, Outlook, or other similar platforms to facilitate meetings.

· Interacts with colleagues cooperatively to develop effective working relationships.

· Reports problems accurately using the chain of command.

· Keeps conversations free from discriminatory, abusive or sexually harassing comments.

· Prepares and submits assignments on time.

· Submits incident reports and work-related injury paperwork promptly.

CRITICAL THINKING

· Self-driven to complete tasks.

· Prioritizes work tasks to be accomplished.

· Recognizes/anticipates the needs of colleagues and stakeholders.

· Identifies recurring problems and barriers.

· Implements practical solutions to mitigate problems and overcome barriers.

· Organizes computer files to easily access information.

· Coordinates with multiple organizations and colleagues to accomplish the same goals.

· Seek guidance and permission when appropriate.

PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

· Always demonstrates professional conduct.

· Demonstrates ethical behavior in the workplace.

· Maintains a non-discriminatory work environment.

· Abides by the Governor’s Code of Conduct and DOH Personnel Regulations, policies and procedures, and Bureau of Laboratories policies and procedures.

· Adheres to scheduled work hours or informs the supervisor of changes to the schedule.

· Maintains confidentiality.

· Submits timesheets on time.

About Us:

TulaRay partners with clients to create staffing solutions that meet unique organizational needs. Our services are designed to reduce administrative burdens, protect your brand, and improve assignment time-to-fill. We believe that mutually successful client relationships are built on lasting quality and exceptional customer service. We pride ourselves on our uncompromising commitment to high-quality emergency management & healthcare personnel, while ensuring that our clients are taken care of with personalized attention. TulaRay manages total compliance and respectfully supports hundreds of professionals and patient-centered programs.

TulaRay is proud to be an affirmative action employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know by visiting our website at tularay.com