MICROBIOLOGIST I (Moorefield Agricultural Complex, Moorefield, WV)

Job Title:  Microbiologist I
Division: Animal Health
Headquarters: Moorefield, WV 
Reports To: Lab Supervisor
Supervisory Responsibility: None
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Nature of Work:

Under direct supervision of the Laboratory Supervisor, the full-time Microbiologist I performs administrative and professional work for the Microbiology Laboratory in an animal health laboratory environment. The Microbiologist I will perform microbiological analyses of poultry and non-poultry specimens. The Microbiologist I will also perform related work in the maintenance of a quality assurance program for the Microbiology Laboratory.

Examples of Work:

• Performs methods consistent with the laboratories’ equipment for analyses of poultry and non-poultry specimens.
• Performs routine laboratory procedures.
• Develops and maintains quality assurance measures to assure that analytical methods are under control.
• Perform standard bacteriological and serological related tests and observations in accordance with scientific principles and techniques.
• Analyzes, interprets, and records test results in order to assist in the administration of laws, regulations, or specifications relating to the microbiological composition of the specimens analyzed as determined by a supervisor.
• Performs related work and other duties as required.
• Prepares official reports and may be called upon to testify before the court or the Commissioner.
• Attends meetings including overnight travel.
• Utilizes a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for data entry and other computer operations.
• Performs isolation techniques of microorganisms for the identification of genus and species.
• Performs sensitivity techniques of microorganisms to determine the best medication(s) to be used by a veterinarian.
• Prepares media and reagents.
• Prepares laboratory equipment and/or scientific instrumentation for use in conducting diagnostic procedures.
• Other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:

Laboratory/office environment; standing, sitting, walking, lifting, operating a computer and other lab and office equipment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the principles, practices, and procedures of scientific analysis in the area of bacteriology, parasitology, virology, serology, organic chemistry, and related microbiological procedures.
• Knowledge of materials and specimens used or tested by NVSL.
• Knowledge of the preparation of chemical reagents, culture media, strains, compounds, and solutions required in scientific testing.
• Knowledge of the source materials in the field of bacteriology and chemistry.
• Knowledge and skill in the operation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory instruments and equipment commonly used in microbiological diagnostic laboratories.
• Skill in the performance of routine microbiological testing and interpretation.
• Skill in techniques and in following standard scientific laboratory methods.
• Ability to prepare microbiological reports and to organize and present scientific information in a clear and concise manner.
• Ability to operate RRT-PCR diagnostic equipment, autoclave sterilizers, hot plates, balances, and centrifuges.
• Ability to understand and to follow oral and written instructions, formulas, and charts.
• Ability to operate a computer with office and laboratory related software effectively and efficiently.
• Ability to speaking before an audience.