Laboratory Technician

Brief

Job Description

Under moderate supervision of the Environmental Microbiology Branch Manager, and in coordination with the Media Preparation Team Lead, follows standard protocols, prepares complex filter and heat-sterilized media and reagents; assists Senior Microbiologist and Chemist I with maintenance of the inventory system of media, reagents and glassware. Duties are performed with adherence to standard protocol, but with considerable latitude for use of professional knowledge, initiative, and independent judgment. Low risk of tetanus. The employee immunization program is monitored by the DSHS Laboratory Safety Office.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs)

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

EJF 1. Performs all phases of media preparation according to FDA,CAP, CLIA, ISO 17025, EPA, TNI and DSHS Laboratory protocols including procuring glassware, equipment chemicals, and reagents; weighing and measuring chemicals and solutions; mixing media and reagents; rehydrating lyophilized reagents; measuring and adjusting the pH of solutions; filter sterilizing media, heat sterilizing media, dispensing, capping, and labeling media, insuring proper consistency of the media, and documenting all information needed to track the media and reagents such as component lot numbers, pH, date of preparation, and expiration dates. (50%)

EJF 2. Performs and documents preventive maintenance on autoclaves, plate pouring hoods, freezers, cold vaults, drying room, water baths, pH meter, balances, label machines and other equipment. Compares performance of equipment with acceptable parameters and refers any unacceptable performance to supervisor, providing an assessment of the problem. (15%)

• EJF 3.
• Provides basic technical and logistical support to the section.
• Assists Inventory Coordinator with inventory counts, and may order weekly supplies of chemicals, glassware, and equipment.
• Provides troubleshooting assistance with equipment and media and provides input for process improvements.
• Introduces new equipment and methodologies and makes pilot batches for raw material testing. (15%)

• EJF 4.
• Delivers released media to testing area.
• Insures that all media production documentation is accurate and complete according to FDA, ISO 17025, EPA, TNI, CAP and CLIA specifications.
• Assures delivery of media to meet expected delivery schedule and needs of the internal and external customers served.
• Identifies any problems and refers them to the supervisor. (10%)

• EJF 5.
• Assist other staff in their duties and provides additional support with special projects to maintain the Team’s high quality and quantity of productivity.
• Participates in weekend and holiday rotation duties.
• 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(10%)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Knowledge of microbiological and chemical techniques and procedures, specifically knowledge and skills in complex media and reagent production.
• Knowledge of the operations of filter sterilization equipment, lyophilizers, and other laboratory equipment, such as autoclaves, pH meters, and dispensing machines.
• Ability to assess needs for inventory of stock and request required supplies.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing and to 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.
• Ability to interact effectively with staff, work independently, work in harmony with other team members, and follow standard operating procedures and protocols.
• Skill in manipulating standard laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy and safety.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: None

Initial Screening Criteria

Experience in Laboratory Work (Preferred). Graduation from a standard senior high school or equivalent is generally preferred. Experience and education may be substituted for one another.

Experience working in a Team setting and providing customer service. (Required)

Experience in research, clinical, and environmental testing. (Preferred)

Experience with all phases of media preparation. (Preferred)

Experience with maintenance of glassware. (Preferred)

Experience with maintaining inventory of supplies. (Preferred)

Experience with spreadsheet or database programs. (Preferred)

Experience using various items of laboratory equipment. (Preferred)

Experience working in an ISO accredited laboratory or federally regulated laboratory. (Preferred)

Must be willing to work weekends and holidays in a rotational basis as needed.

Must be willing to work hours other than 8

00am to 5:00pm.

Additional Information

Applicants must indicate how they meet the initial selection criteria on the State of Texas Application in the summary of experience.

Interviews will be conducted in person.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/ [https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/].

ADA Accommodations

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com [HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com].

Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, and Work Eligibility

• The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
• Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
• DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 form [https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/i-9.pdf]