Biologist - Los Angeles

Biologist ? Los Angeles

 

POSITION INFORMATION:

Functions as a biologist in the Los Angeles BioWatch Laboratory by performing assigned microbiological and molecular assays on high hazard biological threat agents according to established protocols.  In addition to performing the assays, the position is also responsible for the following.

?  Assuring that incoming specimens are recorded, processed and triaged appropriately while maintaining ?chain-of-custody?. 

?  Applying knowledge of these advanced techniques and procedures to appropriately report the findings of the assays,

?  Maintaining documentation on findings and protocols.

?  Ensuring that reagents, supplies and equipment are adequately maintained.

?  Assisting the supervisor and senior scientists in performing additional tests to rapidly identify and characterize pathogenic bacterial and viral agents, as required

?  Determining requirements, resources equipment needs, etc for new or additional studies. 

?  Making adjustments in methods and procedures as appropriate during the course of such studies or experiments.

?  Providing laboratory support for field responses and investigations as assigned by the supervisor.

 

The position:Is responsible for 24 hour 7 days a week coverage for BioWatch/ LRN laboratory responses during a BT event or public health emergency as directed by the supervisor.  Requires work on weekends and holidays as directed by the supervisor.  Requires work past 5 p.m. as required to complete the assay, or as directed by the supervisor.  Requires a security clearance.Requires an annual stored blood sample.

 

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION:

 

Knowledge of established scientific methods and techniques of microbiology and molecular biology to perform recurring assignments of moderate difficulty (i.e., the methods and techniques are well established, apply to most situations encountered and do not require significant deviation from established methods) or discrete portions of more complex projects. 

 

Necessary knowledge and background include:BS or BA in Microbiology or closely related fieldKnowledge of the agents of bioterrorismExperience handling material containing viral and microbial pathogens Knowledge of computer systems, methods and applications, including word processing, statistical and data management software packages. 

 

Established methods and techniques include:Chain-of-custody regulations and proceduresProcessing environmental air filter samples to extract DNA Performing kinetic PCR assaysAseptic methods, BSL2 and BSL3 techniques

 

Desirable skills include:One year bench experience in a laboratory performing molecular and/or microbiological assaysInterpreting TaqMan PCR assays on the ABI 7000Troubleshooting TaqMan PCR assays on the ABI 7000Nucleic acid extraction methodologyOrganizational and record-keeping skills to ensure adequate reagents and materials for 24/7 operation

 SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

 

The supervisor defines assignment objectives, priorities, and deadlines.  The scientist independently plans and carries out assignments, and resolves problems in accordance with accepted practices.  Completed work is reviewed for technical soundness, appropriateness, and conformance with policy and objectives.

 PHYSICAL DEMANDS

 

The work requires no special physical demands.  It may involve some walking, standing, bending, or carrying of light items.

 WORK ENVIROMNENT

 

The work is performed in a microbiology laboratory under either BSL 2 or 3, as appropriate.  The samples may contain pathogenic microbial agents.  The work location is at the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services in Los Angeles, California.

 

Incumbent shall follow all biosafety guidelines related to the research program.  This position places the incumbent at risk of potential exposure to Hepatitis B, as well as other pathogenic microbes and viruses.

 

SALARY & BENEFITS

 

The salary for this position ranges from $49,200 to $72,000 annually as a full-time position, commensurate with educational level and experience. Also included is a full compliment of benefits including paid vacation, medical, dental, vision and life insurance for full-time employees. Part-time positions will receive benefits on a pro-rated basis.  This position is available as a full or a part-time position.

 

TO REPLY TO THIS ANNOUNCEMENT

 

Please apply online by August 5, 2006.