Microbiologist Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $26.82 - $37.83 Hourly
Location : Eureka, CA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 26-00021
Department: Department of Health and Human Services
Division: 435 - Public Health Laboratory
Opening Date: 07/31/2026
Closing Date: 8/14/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
DEFINITION
Public Health Microbiologist I/II
Department of Health and Human Services
Job Highlights:

• Performs testing on clinical specimens to detect the presence of pathogens.
• Performs laboratory quality control tests on media and reagents used in laboratory testing; maintains quality assurance standards.
• Coordinates and/or participates in training activities for community agencies such as law enforcement agencies and fire departments; may participate in developing training protocols.
• Trains and directs the work of other staff; may oversee and sign off on tests performed by uncertified staff.

Work Location:
529 I St, Eureka, CA.
Work Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm
Under general supervision, conducts and interprets microbiological and bacteriological tests in the fields of communicable diseases and environmental sanitation; performs related work as assigned.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Public Health Microbiologist I is the entry level in this professional series for those who have been certified as Public Health Microbiologist by the State of California and have minimal post certification experience or have been out of practice for a number of years. Under close supervision, incumbents conduct and interpret microbiological and other analytical tests. This class is alternately staffed with Public Health Microbiologist II, and incumbents may advance after gaining experience and demonstrating proficiency which meet the qualifications for the higher level.
Public Health Microbiologist II is the journey level in this skilled, professional class, certified by the State of California and fully competent to prepare, conduct and interpret a broad range of microbiological and other analytical tests to support public health clinic and environmental health staff. Incumbents also train and oversee the work of Public Health Microbiologist Trainees. Successful performance of the work requires the use of independence, judgment and initiative within established guidelines. This class is distinguished from Public Health Laboratory Manager in that the latter has supervisory responsibility over all functions of the public health laboratory.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

• Examines clinical specimens for the presence of pathogens.
• Performs bacteriological, biological, parasitological, toxicological, molecular and serological tests and analyses.
• Performs tests and examinations for a variety of communicable diseases including HIV, tuberculosis, diphtheria and gonorrhea.
• Performs tests on environmental health samples, such as water, wastewater and food.
• Performs general tests on submitted cultures for the identification of bacteria.
• Performs laboratory quality control tests on media and reagents used in laboratory testing; maintains quality assurance standards.
• Operates and maintains a variety of laboratory equipment; troubleshoots operating problems and makes adjustments.
• Coordinates laboratory activity with those of medical clinics, physicians, public health services and outside laboratories; provides training concerning proper collection and handling of specimens.
• Coordinates and/or participates in training activities for community agencies such as law enforcement agencies and fire departments; may participate in developing training protocols.
• Maintains detailed records of laboratory testing and prepares written reports as necessary.
• May train and direct the work of laboratory assistants on a project or day to day basis.
• May train and direct the work of other staff; may oversee and sign off on tests performed by uncertified staff.

QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:

• Basic supervisory principles and practices.
• Principles, practices and procedures of clinical laboratory operations including chemistry, microbiology, serology, mycology and parasitology.
• Medical terminology and concepts.
• Principles and practices of laboratory quality control, statistical measurements, and evaluation.
• Operation and minor maintenance of a wide variety of laboratory equipment used in the work.
• Computer applications related to laboratory support and recordkeeping.
• Clinical procedures and recordkeeping requirements.
• Safety precautions and safe work methods related to the work.

Skill in:

• Directing and training support staff on a project or day to day basis.
• Performing a wide variety of laboratory tests and procedures.
• Operating and maintaining complex laboratory equipment.
• Developing and implementing test procedures to isolate and identify pathogens.
• Maintaining quality control in performing laboratory work.
• Preparing and maintaining accurate records of work performed.
• Observing safety practices related to the work.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work.

Other Requirements:

• Must possess a valid certificate as a Public Health Microbiologist as issued by the California State Department of Health Services.
• Must be willing to work with infectious material, including the AIDS virus.
• May be required to be immunized against various communicable diseases, including rabies.
• May be required to work after hours and weekends as necessary.

Desirable Education and Experience:
A typical way to obtain the knowledge and skills outlined above is:
Public Health Microbiologist I: Recent certification as a Public Health Microbiologist as issued by the California State Department of Health Services.
Public Health Microbiologist II: In addition to above, one year of experience equivalent to the County's class of Public Health Microbiologist I.
WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
HOW TO APPLY
A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the County's automated application system at
Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.
It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected.
Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.
Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does it take to fill out the application?

• You should allow 30 - 45 minutes to fill out your application.

Can I change my application after submitting it?

• No. Once an application has been submitted, it is final. Applicants may submit a new application with updated information during the filing period if they wish. Only the most recent application submitted will be considered. All other applications will not be considered.

How long until I hear back from you and how can I check for updates on my application?

• You may receive communications regarding your application at different stages of the selection process. Important updates will be sent to the email address listed in your governmentjobs.com account at the time of notification. To ensure you don't miss any critical information, we recommend keeping your email address current and regularly checking both your inbox and junk mail folders throughout the process. You can also log into your governmentjobs.com account at any time to check your application status. If you have any questions about your application's progress, please contact the County of Humboldt Human Resources Personnel Division at 707-476-2349 or personnel@co.humboldt.ca.us.

Will I be informed if I am not selected for an interview / Oral Exam?

• Yes, you will be informed via email if you are not selected for an interview / Oral Exam.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA+ community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways - oftentimes, outside of formal institutions - and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant's qualifications for a position.
If you're excited about this role but your past work experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS
The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) 476-2349 so arrangements can be made.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.
MEDICAL EXAMINATION
A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.
OTHER EXAMINATIONS
Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.
LICENSES
Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver's license.
PROBATIONARY PERIOD
Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.
EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY
It is the County's intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS
All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.
Please Note: Extra Help positions are non-benefitted but may be eligible to purchase health insurance upon meeting the hours worked requirement under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
RETIREMENT
The County of Humboldt participates in the CalPERS, with both the County and the employee making contributions toward the employee's retirement.
CalPERS Retirement Program:

• Tier I - Prior to 7/5/2012: 2.7% @ 55
• Tier II - Post 7/6/2012: 2% @ 55