A Microbiologist studies microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and parasites. Collects samples and grows cultures; isolates and classifies microorganisms and studies their structure, growth and development; monitors the effect of microorganisms on other organisms and the environment.
1100 West 49th Street, Austin, TX 78756 (Onsite Laboratory)
Pay:
$42.73 per hour (Weekly Pay)
Schedule:
Full-Time | Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 5:00
PM Assignment Type:
Full-Time Contract Background Check:
Required About the Opportunity GSG Talent Solutions is seeking an experienced Microbiologist II to support the Zoonotic Disease Branch within the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Public Health Laboratory. In this role, you will perform complex microbiological testing on human, animal, and environmental specimens to detect and characterize zoonotic disease pathogens while supporting statewide disease surveillance, outbreak investigations, and emergency public health response efforts. This opportunity is ideal for a microbiologist with experience in public health, clinical, or research laboratory settings who is passionate about protecting communities through infectious disease diagnostics. The ideal candidate is analytical, detail-oriented, and committed to maintaining the highest standards of laboratory quality, biosafety, and scientific excellence in a collaborative laboratory environment. Essential Responsibilities Perform microbiological, molecular, serological, biochemical, and microscopic testing on human, animal, and environmental specimens. Culture, isolate, identify, and characterize bacterial and other zoonotic disease pathogens using established laboratory methods. Perform PCR and other molecular diagnostic testing as required. Process, evaluate, and prepare specimens for testing while ensuring compliance with laboratory protocols. Accurately interpret, document, and report laboratory findings using the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Collaborate with microbiologists, epidemiologists, veterinarians, and other public health professionals to support disease surveillance and outbreak investigations. Perform routine quality control, equipment calibration, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting of laboratory instrumentation. Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and ensure compliance with DSHS, CDC, CLIA, OSHA, and established laboratory quality standards. Assist with training laboratory personnel, students, interns, and visiting scientists. Participate in method validation, process improvements, continuing education, and special laboratory projects. Safely handle potentially infectious biological specimens while following established biosafety procedures. Support emergency response and Continuity of Operations (COOP) activities as needed. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Medical Laboratory Science, Molecular Biology, or a closely related biological science. Experience performing microbiological testing in a public health, clinical, research, environmental, or reference laboratory. Experience with bacterial culture, organism identification, microscopy, and standard microbiological laboratory techniques. Experience operating laboratory instrumentation and scientific equipment. Working knowledge of molecular diagnostic techniques, including PCR, is preferred. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS). Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a multidisciplinary team. Ability to safely handle infectious biological specimens while adhering to laboratory biosafety standards. Ability to maintain regular attendance and work effectively in a fast-paced laboratory environment. Preferred Experience Candidates with experience in one or more of the following are strongly encouraged to apply: Public health laboratory testing Zoonotic disease surveillance Clinical microbiology Bacteriology Molecular diagnostics Infectious disease testing Real-Time PCR CDC, CLIA, CAP, or ISO laboratory quality systems Why Join GSG Talent Solutions? This assignment offers the opportunity to work alongside experienced public health scientists while supporting laboratory testing that directly impacts disease surveillance and public health throughout Texas. You'll gain valuable experience in a collaborative laboratory environment focused on emerging infectious diseases and zoonotic pathogens. Additional Information Weekly pay Full-time contract assignment Background check required Must be legally authorized to work in the United States Work Wonders Program GSG Talent Solutions proudly participates in the Work Wonders Program , which helps connect qualified individuals with disabilities to meaningful employment opportunities. Applicants with a documented qualifying medical condition may be eligible to participate. Participation is voluntary and confidential, and eligible individuals may receive additional hiring consideration through the program. If you believe you may qualify, our recruiting team will be happy to discuss the program with you during the hiring process. How to Apply For serious consideration, please email your updated and polished resume directly to vanity.vasquez@gwctx.org. Please include "Microbiologist II - Zoonotic Disease Branch" in the subject line of your email. Candidates who email their resume directly and meet the required qualifications will receive priority consideration.
