Posting Details Interviews are anticipated within two (2) weeks of closing date. The Scientific Laboratory Division (SLD) is the sole public health, environmental, and drug laboratory for New Mexico. It conducts tests for infectious diseases threatening people, livestock and wildlife, as well as for hazardous materials and pollutants in our water, air and milk. It also tests for alcohol and drugs in DWI (Driving while intoxicated) criminal cases and for autopsy cases. The Biological Sciences Bureau tests for indigenous and exotic infectious disease pathogens of public health significance. Towards this end, and in keeping with the mission of the laboratory, we test human clinical and animal specimens, autopsy and necropsy material, along with food, water, and dairy. Besides routine testing, we conduct regulatory and reference testing, as well as testing for outbreak investigation and surveillance. Why does the job exist? The Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention and the New Mexico Department of Health Epidemiology and Response Division need to track outbreaks, have SLD bring on new methods, and ensure that we can respond to public health emergencies. This position serves to assist in this endeavor. How does it get done? To oversee, perform, analyze, and troubleshoot sequencing methods, including next generation sequencing (NGS) and Sanger, used for identification of bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses in samples. To oversee assay development and implementation for NGS with a strict Quality Assurance plan within the section. To aid the supervisor to maintain the section¿s documentation and compliance with CLIA/CAP and CDC regulations. Assist in maintaining inventory and submitting Purchase Orders to fiscal department. Work with supervisor and bioinformatician to ensure high quality sequencing results are produced. Write, review, and train on standard operating procedures for sequencing methods that will be developed. To manage 3-5 staff performing NGS and PCR assays. To ensure appropriate training of all staff in the section, including sequencing activities, at BSL2 and BSL3. To collaborate with state and federal partners to meet testing and surveillance needs for infectious diseases Who are the customers? This job is done for the Scientific Laboratories Division of the Department of Health and the State of New Mexico as well as for the Federal grants and entities that fund this position. The mission of the New Mexico Department of Healthy is to promote sound health policy, prevent disease and disability, improve health services systems, and assure that essential public health functions and safety net services are available to all New Mexicans. Ideal Candidate This job is done for the Scientific Laboratories Division of the Department of Health and the State of New Mexico as well as for the Federal grants and entities that fund this position. The mission of the New Mexico Department of Healthy is to promote sound health policy, prevent disease and disability, improve health services systems, and assure that essential public health functions and safety net services are available to all New Mexicans. Minimum Qualification Bachelor's Degree in biological sciences with emphasis on chemistry, mathematics, and/or computer science and two (2) years experience in biology, microbiology, virology, parasitological and/or molecular biology specialization in a laboratory setting. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling six (6) years may substitute for the required education and experience. Employment Requirements Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License. Pre-employment background investigation is required and is conditional pending results. Working Conditions Work is performed in a fully functional laboratory containing biological, chemical, physical, and radiological hazards. Incumbent will be required to use all applicable safety equipment provided by the employer and follow all safety precautions specified by the employer. Laboratory work will mostly be performed in BSL2 conditions, but work at BSL3 will also be required. There will be extended standing, repetitive trunk/arm/hand/neck movements with computer usage or assay/methodologies utilized. Work involves using high voltage electronic instrumentation Supplemental Information Do you know what Total Compensation is? Click here

Agency Contact Information:

Michael Edwards (505) 383-9001 Email For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement. Bargaining Unit Position This position is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.