Overview
The Vermont Department of Health Laboratory has an opportunity for a Public Health Laboratory Scientist I/II in the Environmental Microbiology Unit. This position works directly with senior microbiologists to learn and perform analytical procedures used by the Vermont Department of Health Lab (VDHL) in one or more of the following areas: wastewater surveillance, molecular biology, food microbiology, arboviral surveillance, rabies, and water bacteriology, including Safe Drinking Water Act (SWDA) testing. Testing is performed and documented according to the requirements of regulatory agencies. In addition to testing, this position entails reading and development of standard operating procedures (SOPs), inputting results into a laboratory information management system (LIMS), and general laboratory duties as assigned. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree or higher in an area of biology with some experience with laboratory methods and a growth mindset to learn new bench techniques. They also possess attention to detail, the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and ability to work some evenings and weekends as required. Experience with nucleic acid extraction and sequencing is beneficial but not required.
Who May Apply
This position, Public Health Laboratory Scientist II; Microbiology - Limited Service (Job Requisition #51273), is open to all State employees and external applicants. It is a Limited Service position, which is non-tenured and authorized for a specific period of time. Limited Service positions are established for specially funded projects or programs.
Please Note: This position is being recruited at multiple levels. If you would like to be considered for more than one level, you MUST apply to the specific Job Requisition.
Level I: Job Requisition #51251
Level II: Job Requisition #51273
If you would like more information about this position, please contact jeffrey.a.budzik@vermont.gov.
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.
AHS BACKGROUND CHECKS
Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.
Environmental Factors
Must be able to work in laboratory conditions with exposure to biohazards by handling samples that either is a bodily fluid or may be contaminated with bodily fluid(s) or highly infectious pathogens. May be required to undergo a medical evaluation and fit testing for respirator use. Must be willing to be called upon with short notice (sometimes only hours) to respond to a public health emergency or natural disaster affecting a large segment of the Vermont population and able to accurately analyze samples in such a short timeframe. May need to explain laboratory data and testing to the general public, explain what the Public Health Laboratory can do and to educate them regarding public health science.
Work requires some travel and incumbents should possess a valid Vermont operator's license.
Minimum Qualifications
Master's degree or higher in microbiology, molecular microbiology, biology, physical science, or a closely related field.
OR
Bachelor's degree in microbiology, molecular microbiology, biology, physical science or a closely related field AND one (1) year or more of microbiological, molecular or biological laboratory experience.
OR
One (1) year or more of experience as a Public Health Laboratory Scientist I, Microbiology.
Total Compensation
As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:
- 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
- Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
- State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
- Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
- Low cost group life insurance
- Incentive-based Wellness Program
- Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program
Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State's employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.
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