GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF CLASS

The MICROBIOLOGIST 2 provides accurate and timely detection and identification of microbial populations, microbial contaminants, microbial infections, or genetic abnormalities through the microscopic examination and the analysis of environmental, agricultural, and biological samples. Employees in this class perform a variety of standard and technically complex tests and procedures whose results generally require interpretation and correlation with other tests before being reported.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

This is the second level of a three-level series. It is distinguished from the lower level by having responsibility for performing technically complex tests and procedures whose results generally require interpretation and correlation with other tests. At this level, employees are expected to routinely exercise independent scientific judgment in the interpretation of data and make recommendations on the application of findings. It is distinguished from the higher level because of less emphasis as an analytical specialist who designs, develops, and implements state-of-the-art methods and procedures.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Employees in this class may specialize in one or several of the fields of microbiology such as food microbiology, medical microbiology, virology, serology, mycology, immunology, or parasitology; however, the employee may be called upon to assist in any of these areas as the need arises.

Allocation of positions to this class will depend on the total work performed which may include one or a combination of the duties or tasks listed below.

1. Benchwork. Typical tasks: logs in sample or specimen noting date, time, and tests to be performed; determines adequacy of sample for necessary tests; prepares necessary equipment and organizes supplies, media, and reagents; prepares sample or specimen for testing by diluting, filtrating, staining, or centrifuging; performs various tests in field of virology, serology, mycology, bacteriology, immunology, and parasitology such as: aerobic plate count, coliform, food borne pathogens, antibiotic residue, enzyme immunoassay, antibiotic susceptibility, fluorescent antibody assay, radioimmune assays, bacterial inhibition assay, added water, and water activity; runs quality control samples with known values to determine if procedure and results are within acceptable limits; calculates numerical results based on quantitative growth patterns; correlates results with other tests, if appropriate.
2. Reports. Typical tasks: enters results of test in log book or computer; completes test result form to be sent to the person or agency who submitted the specimen or sample and contacts them immediately by phone in cases of significant positive test results; interprets results for submitter; requests additional specimens/samples, if necessary; suggests drugs for treatment, if appropriate; completes daily and monthly reports including number and types of tests performed and number of positive findings; maintains accurate and up-to-date records detailing quality control procedures; prepares specimen and accompanying reports to be forwarded to other agencies in cases where exchange of information is warranted.
3. Advancement of Knowledge. Typical tasks: keeps current in field by reading literature andattending symposia and workshops; recommends improvements in methodology and incorporation of new procedures; assists in implementing pilot programs to test recommended improvements and procedures; participates in procedure manual preparation by suggesting revisions deemed appropriate; maintains expertise in all areas of laboratory by rotating duties with microbiologists in other sections.
4. Miscellaneous. Typical tasks: trains new employees and student interns; assigns and directs the work of support staff such as laboratory technicians; calibrates, troubleshoots, and performs minor maintenance to laboratory equipment; takes inventory and requisitions supplies with supervisor's approval; testifies on methodology and results of tests when those results are evidence in cases of litigation.

RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS

Employees in this class have daily in-person or telephone contact with agency staff to exchange information or discuss test results. Employees in this class also have regular telephone contact with county health departments, physicians, industrial and business representatives, and other agencies to notify them of test results or to discuss issues pertaining to a sample or specimen.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Employees in this class work under general supervision of a laboratory supervisor or other administrative superior. Test data and interpretation are reviewed routinely for accuracy and precision. Reports are reviewed upon completion for completeness and accuracy (may be used in cases of litigation). Records are reviewed routinely for quality control. Guidelines used in performance of duties include standardized testing procedures, accepted aseptic and sterilization procedures, established laboratory procedures, and applicable State and Federal regulations.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• A Bachelor's degree with advanced courses in Bacteriology, Chemistry, and/or other biological fields which shows knowledge of microbiology theory, principles, and practices and laboratory procedures, equipment, and instruments and one year of microbiological laboratory experience; OR
• An equivalent combination of training and experience.