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Public Health Laboratory Scientist I

Employer
Fairfax County Government
Location
Fairfax, Virginia
Salary
$51,873.74 - $86,455.41 Annually
Closing date
Oct 8, 2022

Job Details

Job Announcement

The Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) is a progressive public health leader providing services that promote population health, protect public health and the environment, and ensure residents' access to health services and information. Under general supervision, the Public Health Laboratory Scientist I performs a variety of moderate and high-complexity laboratory testing in all areas of the FCHD laboratory including: accessioning, microbiology, mycobacteriology, rabies, urinalysis, parasitology, immunology, molecular biology, clinical chemistry, toxicology, environmental chemistry and environmental microbiology. Assesses and ensures specimen quality for laboratory testing. Operates testing systems and methodologies to produce accurate and timely data for patients, quality control, and proficiency samples. Reports data accurately and efficiently to healthcare providers/environmental health specialists utilizing computerized laboratory information system (LIS). Demonstrates knowledge of operational and regulatory standards. May perform on-site testing at FCHD clinics in support of STI program. May participate in training and orientation of new staff on laboratory techniques and methods. Participates in professional growth opportunities to enhance personal and team development. This position requires active participation in one of the laboratory’s internal committees; Quality Assurance or Safety. Participation on agency- wide or county-wide committees is highly recommended.

Note: Multiple positions may be hired from this announcement.

Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities

( The knowledge, skills, and abilities listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list.)
LEVEL 1

Knowledge of basic principles of biology, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry or organic chemistry methods and techniques in a clinical laboratory;
Knowledge and application of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use and its limitations for duties assigned;
Skill in the care and use of laboratory equipment including microscopes and accessory equipment;
Ability to perform technical laboratory procedures in a precise and accurate manner;
Ability to pay close attention to detail;
Ability to work independently and part of a team;
Ability to comprehend and follow written and oral instructions;
Ability to communicate technical information to internal and external customers;
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships;
Ability to interpret and follow standard technical instructions;
Knowledge of laboratory hazards and procedures;

LEVEL 2
Knowledge of quality control, documentation, quality assurance, and professional and regulatory standards of laboratory practice in a certified laboratory;
Ability to apply problem-solving skills to resolve issues such as troubleshooting instruments and testing failures;
Ability to make analytical judgments;
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;
Ability to operate, maintain and properly read various laboratory instruments;

LEVEL 3
Ability to prepare clear, concise technical documentation and maintain accurate records;
Knowledge of policies, processes, and procedures related to corrective and preventive actions;
Knowledge of policies, processes, and procedures related to identifying and collecting quality improvement indicators;
Knowledge of rules and regulations regarding reportable diseases;
Ability to keep abreast of current developments in the field.

Employment Standards

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in medical/clinical laboratory science, microbiology, or chemistry, or a degree in a directly related field of study;
Plus (1) year recent relevant experience performing CLIA non-waived or environmental testing in a clinical or public health laboratory.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

The ideal candidate is a self-motivated, results-oriented individual with a minimum of one year of experience performing clinical testing in a clinical or public health laboratory setting. Working knowledge of chemistry, microbiology and molecular biology procedures, safety, and quality assurance is highly desirable for this position. Experience with Laboratory Information System (LIS). Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Ability to read, analyze, interpret, and communicate, verbally or in writing, complex scientific, technical, administrative and educational documents. Ability to respond effectively to sensitive inquiries or complaints from both internal and external clients. Certification as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) or equivalent is preferred. Special consideration will be given to applicants with a strong background and experience in chemistry, microbiology, sequencing, and working in a BSL-3 environment with infectious agents such as TB.

CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES REQUIRED:
  • Driver's License (Required)
  • CPR (Required within 60 days)
  • AED (Required within 60 days)


NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
All newly hired employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (two weeks after the last required dose) as a condition of employment or obtain approval of a medical or religious exemption prior to their start date. Proof of an exemption or vaccination status will be required during the pre-employment onboarding process. New employees who obtain an exemption from the vaccine mandate for medical or sincerely held religious beliefs may be subject to a weekly testing requirement. Vaccinated employees and employees with a medical or religious exemption will complete the attestation online on their first day of employment or shortly thereafter.

The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check, child protective services registry check, sanctions screening, and driving record check to the satisfaction of the employer.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, see, and hear. Job is generally sedentary in nature, however, job entails walking, sitting, standing, climbing stairs, reaching, and bending; may be required to lift up to 25 lbs.
Uses hands to grasp, handle, or feel. Must possess manual dexterity sufficient to work with small instruments and delicate laboratory equipment. Visual acuity is required to read data on computer monitor and laboratory equipment, and to closely examine specimens microscopically and distinguish fine gradation of color, bands, or structures. Ability to operate keyboard driven equipment and computer; Position frequently communicates and must be able to exchange accurate information with others verbally and in writing. Ability to drive a motor vehicle . All duties may be performed with or without reasonable accommodations.

SELECTION PROCEDURE:
Panel interview and may include exercise.

The population of Fairfax County is very diverse where 39.8% of residents speak a language other than English at home ( Spanish, Asian/Pacific Islander, Indo-European, and others ) and we encourage candidates bilingual in English and a foreign language to apply to this opportunity.

Fairfax County Government prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY.

Company

Fairfax County, Virginia is a diverse and thriving urban county. As the most populous jurisdiction in both Virginia and the Washington metropolitan area, the County's population exceeds that of seven states. The median household income of Fairfax County is one of the highest in the nation and over half of its adult residents have four-year college degrees or more educational attainment. Fairfax County also is home to an extensive commercial office market and is a major employment center.

Fairfax County Government is a great place to work, with a variety of jobs in different fields, great benefits, and an enjoyable working environment. We serve nearly one million residents in one of the largest counties in the country. Our talented employees have established Fairfax County as a leader in nearly every facet of public service and have won national recognition as innovators in local government.The size of Fairfax County government and the diversity of services it provides to citizens allows opportunities for personal growth and development, without ever having to change employers. In addition to pay, Fairfax County Government provides an employee benefits package worth approximately 25% of your salary in additional compensation. This package of benefits consists of programs designed to protect you and your family during your employment with the county and into your retirement years.


BENEFITS INCLUDE:
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Group Term Life Insurance
Contributory Retirement Plan
Deferred Compensation
Flexible Spending Account Programs
Long Term Disability Insurance
Long Term Care Plan
Tuition Assistance Program
Employees' Child Care Center
Virginia College Savings Plans

Fairfax County's Application Process: Fairfax County uses an online application process called NEOGOV at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/jobsfor nearly all positions.

Applicants who need assistance with the online application process are welcome to come to the Application Center at Fairfax County's HR Central where staff will be happy to work with you to establish an account and get your resume into the system. HR Central is located in the Government Center at 12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 270, Fairfax, VA, and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Or call 703-222-5872 for more information.

For more information on applying, please click here - https://www.governmentjobs.com/home/applicationguide.

Company info
Website
Location
12000 Government Center Parkway
Suite 270
Fairfax
VA
22035-0034
US

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