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

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.

• Performs methods consistent with the laboratory’s 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.
• Performs standard bacteriological and serological related tests and observations in accordance with scientific principles and techniques.
• Analyzes, interprets, and records test results 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.

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

• 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 speak before an audience.

Education: Bachelor’s degree with at least 25 semester hours in microbiology and physical sciences including a course in microbiology and 16 semester hours in chemistry.

Experience: Three years of employment carrying out technical work in a microbiology laboratory including one year of supervisory experience.

Substitutions: Graduate study in a related biological science may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for employment experience.

• Valid driver’s license is required.
• Satisfactory completion of pre-employment drug testing.
• Satisfactory completion of pre-employment law enforcement background investigation, including DMV records.
• Must maintain a positive image of the Commissioner, West Virginia Department of Agriculture.

This description is subject to review and revision at the discretion of the Commissioner of Agriculture and designees. West Virginia Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity employer.

Position Descriptions