Laboratory Support Specialist I (#1853)

BACKGROUND

The National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) is a one-of-a-kind facility dedicated to defending the nation against biological threats. Its work supports DHS and National biodefense preparedness planning, response, emerging threat characterization and bioforensic analyses. It is the first national laboratory created by DHS in response to biodefense gaps identified following the Amerithrax attacks of 2001 and has been operated by the Battelle National Biodefense Institute (BNBI) since 2006. Since its inception, NBACC and its staff have filled critical shortfalls in our scientific knowledge of biological agents needed to protect the public and defend the Nation from biological threats, whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate and provided federal law enforcement with scientific data to support the investigation and attribution of biocrimes and protection of the US bioeconomy.

NBACC includes two centers: the National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC), which conducts the technical analyses in support of federal law enforcement investigations, and the National Biological Threat Characterization Center (NBTCC), which conducts experiments and studies to obtain data required for a better understanding of biological vulnerabilities and hazards. Together these centers offer a unique national resource for understanding the risks posed by biological agents and emerging technologies to inform biodefense policy and response planning and the operational capability to support the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of biocrimes and bioterrorism.

PRIMARY FUNCTION

Provides laboratory support for the NBACC, NBFAC, NBTCC, and Infrastructure.

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

* Associates degree (or equivalent experience) preferred.
* Experience in cleaning biomedical or containment laboratories desired.
* Desired skills include experience with general laboratory operations and support including familiarity with ISO 17025, working in biocontainment (BSL-3), and adherence to relevant safety guidelines and regulations.
* Well versed in the use of PC-based office automation and the Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook). Proficiency and clarity in both written and oral communications are essential.
* Demonstrated organizational skills and proven track record of working independently and as a team player.
* Ability to prioritize responsibilities.
* Current driver's license and good driving record in order to operate Government Furnished Vehicle.
* Skills and experience to support laboratory activities and work in accordance with NBACC's management system (e.g., ISO).
* Must be a citizen of the United States, able to obtain and maintain an interim secret clearance leading to a top-secret clearance and suitability for DHS.
* Participation in the Immunization Program, Medical Surveillance Program and/or enrollment in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP) is required.
* May be required to participate in NBACC's alternative work schedule and/or on-call schedule, dependent upon business needs.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

* Performs routine BSL-2 and BSL-3 laboratory cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilization for the NBACC.
* Performs regular safety checks on emergency showers and eye flushing equipment.
* Cleans and mops change rooms and laboratories and collects, sterilizes, and removes containment waste.
* Stocks scrubs, towels, and laboratory supplies.
* Stocks kitchenette items such as coffee, silverware, etc.
* Delivers compressed gas and liquid nitrogen cylinders to laboratories and support areas.
* Assists with shipping and receiving functions.
* Performs daily and weekly integrated pest management functions.
* Maintains and encourages the maintenance of a safe workplace. Attends safety trainings applicable to position. Immediately reports any infractions of safety procedures noticed while cleaning the laboratories
* Performs occasional local travel as required.
* Escorts vendors and technical representatives throughout the facility when necessary.
* Must be a team player, communicate clearly, be open to hearing ideas and suggestions from others, diffuse situations, and exercise empathy and patience with colleagues.
* Must have the ability to multi-task, maintain composure under pressure, and utilize effective time management skills to prioritize tasks.
* Must be a self-starter driven by an eagerness to succeed, maintain flexibility, adapt to change in a productive and positive manner, learn new concepts, and utilize critical thinking to resolve complex problems.
* Maintains appropriate records.
* Performs other duties as assigned/authorized.

BNBI is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.