The Environmental Sciences Unit of the NC State Laboratory of Public Health is currently accepting applications for a Laboratory Specialist. The primary purpose of this senior-level position is to expand the Unit’s molecular testing scope for the identification and detection of viral agents of public health significance in wastewater. This position will independently characterize and quantify viral nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) using digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods, DNA sequencing, and whole genome sequencing (WGS) that will require attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy. Responsibilities include performing validations/verifications of new molecular tests, writing scientific documents, implementing new molecular tests, and training staff to perform the newly implemented molecular tests.
About the Division of Public Health and the State Laboratory of Public Health:
The NC Division of Public Health (DPH) works to promote and contribute to the highest possible level of health for the people of North Carolina – Everywhere, Everyday, Everybody.
At the State Laboratory of Public Health (NCSLPH), we provide medical and environmental laboratory services such as testing, consultation, and training, to public and private health provider organizations responsible for the promotion, protection, and assurance of the health of North Carolina citizens. The NCSLPH serves the entire state as a reference laboratory for difficult, unusual, or otherwise unavailable laboratory procedures and assist in the development, evaluation, and standardization of medical and environmental laboratory testing procedures. We provide training and consultation to improve and assure quality services in other laboratories and certify milk and water laboratories and milk analysts. Visit our website at http://slph.ncpublichealth.com to learn more.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES / COMPETENCIES:
To receive credit for all of your work history and credentials, you must list the information on the application form. Any information listed under the text resume section or on an attachment will not be considered for qualifying credit. Qualified candidates must document on the application that they possess all of the following:
Experience testing wastewater for SARS-CoV-2 by digital PCR instrumentation.
Knowledge of general laboratory operational policies and procedures.
Knowledge of the hazards of working with potentially infectious materials and how to take appropriate precautions to avoid infection.
Knowledge of quality control standards and procedures.
Ability to research, develop, evaluate, and implement new laboratory procedures.
MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
Bachelor's degree in medical technology, microbiology, chemistry or a closely related biological science field from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of experience in a medical laboratory or in the assigned work area;
OR
an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Necessary Special Qualifications:
Must be capable of meeting the Federal CLIA 88 personnel requirements for a general supervisor in a laboratory performing high complexity testing.
