Under moderate supervision of the Medical Virology Group Manager and under technical guidance of the Viral Isolation Team Leader and following standard protocols, performs complex procedures to isolate and identify viruses while using Biosafety Level 2 and 3 practices and procedures. Processes and identifies viruses using molecular methods, including real time RT-PCR. Maintains and validates media and reagents for virus identification. Duties performed with limited latitude to interpret standard protocol, but with considerable use of scientific knowledge, judgment, and experience.

Essential Job Functions:
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

EJF 1. Performs nucleic acid extractions using both manual and automated methods and real time RT-PCR for the detection of viruses. Viruses include but are not limited to Influenza, COVID-19, Mumps, Measles, Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya. Follows standard operating procedures according to CAP and CLIA regulations for each assay. Follows appropriate safety protocols using both Biosafety level 2 and 3 practices. Determines additional testing needed and routes the specimens appropriately. Maintains accurate records of all work documenting on appropriate worksheets and enters the results into the lab information system (LIMS). Tracks the progress of specimens using the LIMS and other computer software such as Microsoft Excel. (45%)

EJF 2. Follows appropriate quality assurance processes to maintain a high quality of work. Performs instrument maintenance as needed following CAP and CLIA regulations. Maintains adequate supplies and reagents and prepares necessary reagents as needed for testing. Performs quality control testing on all media and reagents following CAP and CLIA regulations. Documents all quality control testing and validation performed on the media and reagents. (30%)

EJF 3. Assists other staff in their duties and provides additional support to maintain a high quality of work. Notifies supervisory personnel of equipment malfunctions or test failures immediately, providing an assessment of the failure and making recommendations to prevent additional failures in the future. (15%)



EJF 4. Assists in development of new procedures under direction from Senior Microbiologist and Team Leader, provides input to optimize efforts, and documents all development work thoroughly. Reviews the literature on a regular basis and provides summaries to other employees of new techniques or research related to virus isolation/identification. Participates in continuing education opportunities on a regular basis including talks, satellite conferences, scientific conferences, or other appropriate opportunities to update and learn new techniques to be able to perform state of the art diagnostic work. Provides training to co-workers and guest laboratorians. Performs other tasks as assigned. (5%)



EJF 5. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or continuity of operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. Participates in weekend, holiday, and after-hours testing as needed on a rotational basis. (5%)

Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of basic virology, microbiology and molecular biology. Knowledge of the procedures and equipment used in diagnostic molecular virology. Skill to handle laboratory equipment and perform tasks safely and efficiently. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; follow written and verbal instructions. Ability to use various items of laboratory equipment, including use of a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis and results reporting. Ability to interact effectively with staff, work independently, work in harmony with other team members, to maintain good records and follow standard operating procedures and protocols. Ability to organize daily workload and set priorities to routine work.

Registration or Licensure Requirements:
NA

Initial Selection Criteria:
Required: Have an earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution; or have an earned associate’s degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution. Experience and education may be substituted as defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88) Standards.
Experience performing molecular testing in a clinical setting and/or laboratory preferred but not required. Laboratory experience identifying viruses and/or pathogenic organisms preferred but not required.

Additional Information:
Requisition#536682

Note: Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include: 67B, 71A, 230X, 43TX. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/JobDescriptions.aspx.

Applicant is required to list all college level biology, microbiology, and chemistry courses on application showing the course name and number of semester hours. List of courses can be placed in “Special Training/Skills/Qualifications” section or in one of the “Employment History” spaces. Applicants with diplomas awarded in countries other than the US must contact Laboratory Personnel Services (512-776-7318) for an approved list of credentialing agencies. Selectee will be immunized against rabies virus and other highly infectious agents, DSHS will provide and arrange for immunization. Selectee must have no color vision problems. Work schedule: Must be willing to work hours other than 8am-5pm. Duties may include weekend/holiday work as required and occasional travel to attend and/or present at professional meetings.

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the CAPPS service center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

MOS Code:
67B, 71A, 230X, 43TX

Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to Jobs at HHSC and DSHS

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.