Microbiologist 1

Make a difference from day one at the Department of Health! We are seeking a dedicated entry-level Microbiologist to join the team at the Bureau of Laboratories. In this support role, you will serve as the backbone of our operations, working across both the Division of Microbiology and the Division of Virology and Immunology. If you are looking for a role where your scientific precision contributes directly to the well-being of the community, this is the place for you!

In this role, you will manage the critical intake and processing of laboratory samples, serving as the central hub for specimen reception. Your primary duties will include receiving and opening packages, accessioning samples with unique identification numbers, entering data into the Laboratory Information Management System, and distributing specimens and paperwork to the appropriate testing laboratories. Beyond reception, you will engage in technical preparation tasks such as preparing culture media and reagents using aseptic techniques, and processing environmental and human samples for culture or molecular testing. You will also handle logistics, including packaging and shipping diagnostic specimens and etiologic agents to agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Additionally, this position supports food safety grant activities by shopping at grocery stores for meat, seafood, and retail food samples. To ensure a safe and efficient workflow, you will perform quality control duties, assist with waste management, and maintain routine cleanliness across specimen reception and preparation areas.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment, 37.5 hours per week
• Work hours are 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 60-minute lunch.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• A bachelor's degree in microbiology; or
• A bachelor's degree that includes 20 credits in microbiology, cellular biology, molecular biology or bacteriology and 12 credits in chemistry or biochemistry.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree/credits.

• This position requires a current driver's license which is not under suspension.

Other Requirements:

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirement:

• You must pass a background investigation.

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. *7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
• Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
• Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
• You must provide complete and accurate information or:
  • your score may be lower than deserved.
  • you may be disqualified.
• You may only apply/test once for this posting.
• Your results will be provided via email.