Microbiologist II

DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.

Employee Benefits:

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page. Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.

Functional Title:

Microbiologist II Job Title:

Microbiologist II Agency:

Dept of State Health Services Department:

Microbiology Posting Number:

14201

Closing Date:

03/12/2026

Posting Audience:

Internal and External Occupational Category:

Life, Physical, and Social Science Salary Range:

$4,539.50

• $5,220.

43

Pay Frequency:

Monthly Salary Group:

TEXAS-B-19

Shift:

Day Additional Shift:

Days (First)

Telework:

Not Eligible for

Telework Travel:

Up to 5%

Regular/Temporary:

Regular Full Time/Part Time:

Full time

FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt:

Nonexempt Facility Location:

Job Location City:

AUSTIN Job Location Address:

1100 W 49TH ST (DBGL)

Other Locations:

MOS Codes:

230X,43BX,43TX,71A,SEI12 BRIEF

JOB DESCRIPTION

Under moderate supervision of the TB Clinical Group Manager, and with coordination with the Tuberculosis Analysis Team Lead, performs moderate to complex microbiological testing, identification, and characterization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other acid-fast bacilli (AFB) from clinical specimens and isolates. Performs the identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other AFB from clinical and referered specimens using HPLC, nucleic acid amplification (NAA) and

MALDI-TOF.

Performs and documents QC procedures, equipment preventative maintenance, and repairs to assure valid testing data. Maintains the necessary equipment, reagents, and supplies for testing. Conducts, evaluates, qualifies, and documents Team personnel training on technical and support tasks as assigned. Completes other duties as assigned. Duties performed with adherence to standard protocol but with limited use of scientific knowledge, initiative, and judgment.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

(EJFs): Attends work on a regular and predicatable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned. Based on the work area, consistently complies with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. EJF 1. Under the technical guidance of the Team Leader and Senior Microbiolgist, performs the identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other acid-fast bacilli (AFB) directly from clinical specimens using HPLC, nucleic acid amplification (NAA) and

MALDI-TOF

methods. (50%) EJF 2. Coordinates with Team Lead and Senior Microbiologist to assure that work is prioritized and performed in an accurate and timely manner, according to guidelines. Results testing data into the laboratory information system in accurate and timely manner, according to guidelines. Coordinates with Team Lead and Senior Microbiologist to assure that critical results are reported to customers promptly. Coordinates with Team Lead and Senior Microbiologist to assure that a sufficient supply of equipment, reagents, and other required materials is maintained. (15%) EJF 3. Consults and coordinates with Team Lead and Senior Microbiologist to assure that the Team QA Plan is implemented and followed. Performs and documents QC procedures, equipment preventive maintenance, and repair procedures to assure valid testing data (15%) EJF 4. Maintains patient and sample records. Orders laboratory information system (LabWare) tests as needed for identification. Creates batches and completes appropriate log sheets by daily deadlines. Enters test results into LabWare by daily deadline. Trains others to perform demographics checks using LabWare demographic log or batch worksheets. Communicates with internal and external customers, documents communications in phone and LabWare communication logs (15%). EJF 5. Completes other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or continuity of operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. (5%)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

(KSAs): Knowledge of microbiology, mycobacteriology, biochemistry, and molecular biology. Knowledge of automated and non-automated microbiology laboratory analysis systems. Knowledge of quality assurance functions and systems. Ability to perform manipulation of clinical specimens and cultures with speed, accuracy, and safety while using aseptic techniques under a biological safety cabinet. Skill in manipulating complex laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy and safety. Ability to communicate technical instructions and interact effectively with staff .Ability to interact effectively and work in harmony with staff and other team members. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with staff and customers. Ability to work independently and follow standard operating procedures. Ability to use a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis, and results reporting.

REGISTRATIONS, LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS OR CERTIFICATIONS

N/A

INITIAL SCREENING CRITERIA

• Have an earned bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institution; or
• Have an earned associate's degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science, or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution.
• Experience and education may be substituted as defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA '88) Standards.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor's Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/ .

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.

Applications@ngahrhosting.com .

Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, and Work Eligibility:

The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds. Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks. DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 form