Conducts research and laboratory tests on samples including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Performs Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to determine SARS-CoV-2 lineage, maintains laboratory to ensure testing is performed in a sterile and regulated environment, and provides assistance with laboratory information systems.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.
- Performs clinical (BSL-2) and environmental laboratory testing in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including routine analysis, quality control, and equipment maintenance.
- Operates, maintains, calibrates, and performs quality control on laboratory instruments, reagents, and supplies in accordance with established protocols.
- Maintains complete and accurate laboratory documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), quality assurance records, and corrective actions.
- Receives, logs, processes, and analyzes human specimens for clinical testing in accordance with approved methods and applicable requirements.
- Receives, logs, processes, and analyzes potable and non-potable water samples following approved methods and chain-of-custody requirements.
- Enters, verifies, and manages laboratory data in Laboratory Information Management Systems {LIMS) and Laboratory Information Systems {LIS}.
- Performs quality control and proficiency testing in compliance with regulatory requirements; investigates failures and implements corrective actions.
- Maintains inventory of laboratory supplies and ensures availability of materials required for testing operations.
- Supports environmental laboratory customer services, including reporting and accounts receivable functions as assigned.
- Assists with wastewater surveillance activities, including sample collection, processing, packaging, and shipment in accordance with applicable guidelines.
- Ensures compliance with all applicable safety, quality, and regulatory requirements, including biosafety and laboratory best practices.
- May be assigned Quality Assurance Manager duties (TCEQ designation}, including oversight of quality systems, review of procedures, personnel training, compliance monitoring, and resolution of nonconformance issues.
- Participates in an on-call rotation to support emergency testing, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Will be required to drive a City vehicle for City business use.
- Performs related work as required.
COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF JOB DUTIES
Knowledge of:
- Knowledge of laboratory techniques and aseptic procedures.
- Knowledge of laboratory safety practices, including biosafety and biological hazard handling and disposal.
- Knowledge of applicable laboratory regulations and quality assurance practices.
- Knowledge of proper packaging and shipment of laboratory specimens, including wastewater samples.
- Knowledge of laboratory data systems and general computer applications.
Skills and Abilities:- Skill in organization, time management, and prioritizing multiple tasks.
- Ability to perform laboratory testing with accuracy and attention to detail.
- Ability to troubleshoot and resolve routine laboratory issues.
- Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional standards.
- Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with others.
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.
- Ability to maintain good planning and organizational skills.
- Ability to take and follow directions from supervisor.
- Ability to give directions to and gain compliance from assigned staff.
- Ability to perform strenuous work and routine work.
- Ability to maintain a valid Texas Driver License and a good driving record.
- Ability to project a positive and professional image of the City of Laredo.
- Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing in the English language and orally in the Spanish language.
- Ability to comply with all City of Laredo's policies and procedures.
- Ability to maintain good health and physical condition sufficient to permit the full performance of the duties of this position.
WORK ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Physical Effort Requirements Position will have the following exposures
- Occasional exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and/or hazards. Occasional outside work.
- Exerting up to 35 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly having to move objects.
Work Environment Locations Position will require the employee to work in the following types of work environments
Never
- Street environment (near moving traffic)
- Construction site
- Confined space
- Warehouse environment
Seldom
- Outdoor environment
- Vehicles
Often
- Office or similar indoor environment
Exposures Position will require the employee to be exposed to the following environmental elements
Never
- Extreme cold (below 32 degrees)
- Extreme heat (above 100 degrees)
- Moving mechanical parts
- Loud noises (85+ decibels such as heavy trucks, jack hammers, construction)
Seldom
- Individuals with known violent backgrounds
Sometimes
- Individuals who are hostile or irate
- Fumes or airborne particles
- Toxic or caustic chemicals or substances
Often
- Communicable diseases
- Other: (Specify: Biosafety Level 2 Laboratory)
Travel Position will require the employee to travel
Seldom:
- Local travel
- Regional travel
- National travel
- International travel
Required Education and Experience
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Microbiology, Biological Science, Environmental Science, Public Health, Medical Laboratory Science, Chemistry, or related field.
- At least one (1) year of laboratory experience in microbiology (clinical and/ or environmental), water quality testing, laboratory technician, or a related laboratory field.
*Council of Higher Education Accreditation (C.H.E.A.)
Proof of TB Test/Screening will be required to be presented prior to employment
Required Licenses or Certifications
- Valid Texas Driver License. If applicant holds an out-of-state license, a State of Texas Driver License must be obtained within 6 months of employment.
- Certification in Medical Laboratory Sciences or a related field from a recognized certifying organization (e.g., ASCP, AAB, or equivalent), must be obtain within twelve (12) months of employment.
The following Licenses and Certifications that must be obtained after employment. Continued employment is contingent on successfully obtaining required certification(s) and/or license(s) within the specified period of time indicated above from time of hire.
As part of the minimum requirements for all positions with the City of Laredo, a thorough background check and certified school transcripts will be required from all applicants who are offered employment.
Effective February 24, 1997, all selected applicants are required to undergo a drug and alcohol test prior to employment
Effective January 7, 2008, all persons in safety-sensitive functions/positions, as per City of Laredo Drug and Alcohol Policy definition shall be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
A person with a disability who needs a reasonable accommodation related to a selection process is requested to contact the Human Resources Department at (956) 791-7480, two days prior to the scheduled interview and/or test if applicable.
City of Laredo is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled and Veteran Employer.
We welcome differences in the form of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, geography, socioeconomic status, age, politics, religion, philosophy, sexual orientation, or gender identity. All applicants who share this goal are encouraged to apply. Must be able to function in a principle-based organization that has a culture built on character and core values.
