Microbiologist - Method Development

 Work for Indiana Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana. About the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH):

The Indiana Department of Health's mission is to promote, protect, and improve the health and safety of all Hoosiers so that they can reach their optimal health regardless of where they live, learn, work, or play. 

Role Overview:

 The Microbiologist role in Method Development will be responsible for the implementation, validation, and SOP generation for new methods being brought into our laboratory. They will assist with developing new assays, new technologies, and troubleshooting existing assays. This position will also play a large role in our genomic sequencing and analysis. The position is located at the Indiana Department of Health laboratory and has no travel requirements.

Salary Statement:

 The salary for this position traditionally starts at $53,222.00 but may be commensurate with education or work experience. A Day in the

Life:

The essential functions of this role are as follows: Conduct procedures of clinical specimens and/or reference samples/food samples/environmental samples for serological analysis or isolation and identification of micro-organisms or their antigens/nucleic acids. Evaluate, interpret, and validate laboratory results and reports findings to the submitter. Organize and plan identification schemes for examination of organisms not fitting regular schemes. Evaluate quality control checks on laboratory methods, materials, and equipment. Coordinate the preparation of media, reagents, stains, supplies and other materials used in the transport, examination, and analysis process. Prepare epidemiological and statistical reports from data compiled on a daily, weekly, monthly, or annual basis. Development, preparation and updating of procedural manuals on methods, instrumentation, and quality assurance. Participate in training programs as a planner or instructor at workshops and conferences for private and public laboratory personnel. Initiate special research projects designed to test and improve microbiological methods and procedures. Participate in testing evaluation of new products used in clinical/reference laboratory work. Work with local laboratories and other health department staff to ensure their use of adequate materials, techniques, methods, and procedures. May appear at legal proceedings as an expert witness.

The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.

What You'll Need for

Success:

Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:

Thorough knowledge of the principles, theories and practices of microbiology and related sub-specialties. Ability to meet requirements for personnel certification as a general supervisor pursuant to the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act of 1988. Thorough knowledge of, and the ability to apply, accepted or unprecedented laboratory problems. Broad knowledge of, and ability to use, complex and specialized technical/scientific equipment and automated techniques of analysis. Broad knowledge of laboratory safety practices and principles. Specialized knowledge of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies concerning the program area. Ability to satisfactorily participate in proficiency testing programs. Ability to compile, analyzes, evaluate and present laboratory data to physicians, veterinarians, public health staff and professional organizations.

Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

A Bachelor's degree in a biological, chemical, or physical science, with at least 2 years of relevant testing experience. For roles performing CLIA‑regulated high‑complexity testing, the degree must meet CLIA educational requirements.

Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:

This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs. Benefits of Employment with the

State of Indiana:

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes: Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans

Wellness Rewards Program:

Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewardsHealth savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contributionDeferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer matchTwo (2) fully-funded pension plan optionsA robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothersUp to 15 hours of paid community service leaveCombined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off12 paid holidays, 14 on election yearsEducation Reimbursement ProgramGroup life insuranceReferral Bonus programEmployee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visitsQualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness ProgramFree Parking for most positionsFree LinkedIn Learning access 

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.

IN.gov.