Laboratory Medical Specialist-Molecular Epidemiology – North Carolina Dept of Health and Human Services – Wake County, NC

The Molecular Diagnostic/Epidemiology Unit of the NC State Laboratory of Public Health is currently accepting applications for a Laboratory Medical Specialist-Molecular Epidemiology.

The position is responsible for evaluating available molecular biology methods and performs applied research to optimize detection using molecular techniques. The work consists of determining research requirements, setting goals/objectives, developing research plans, scheduling projects, implementing the research plan, evaluating data, reporting results, and integrating the research outcomes into unit procedures through technology transfer. This position must independently characterize bacterial and viral nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods, DNA sequencing, and whole genome sequencing (WGS). This position will also grow and isolate microbial agents, and generate molecular tools to identify, group, type and sub-type these agents. This position will evaluate, validate/verify, and implement new molecular methodologies to detect microbial agents of public health significance and will assist the General Supervisor and the Unit Manager in developing, maintaining, and updating operating procedures utilized by the Molecular Diagnostic/Epidemiology Unit. Job entails a high degree of accuracy, attention to detail, documentation, and flexibility in workflow and assignments.

The Molecular Epidemiology Laboratory Medical Specialist responsibilities will include but not limited to the following:

• 
  Perform nucleic acid extractions, nucleic acid (DNA /RNA) amplification techniques, such as real-time and conventional PCR, Sanger sequencing, and WGS to evaluate clinical bacterial isolates and clinical specimens

• Analyze and interpret data to confirm bacterial and viral agents of public health concerns such as Shiga toxin producing
  E. coli (STEC), norovirus, and SARS-CoV-2

• Provide technical leadership, training, and troubleshooting

• Provide routine testing and technical support to staff within the Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology Unit

• Perform evaluations and applied research projects leading to improved detection, enhanced capacity, and faster delivery of results

• Execute validation and verifications of molecular methods and platforms within the Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology as well as their implementation

This position is involved in outbreak and emergency response and may require occasional work after hours and weekends/holidays as part of the public health response.

Salary Grade: GN12

Recruitment Range: $46,203 – $54,890

Position: 60041372

Exam Plan: #22-04746

About the Division of Public Health and the State Laboratory of Public Health:

The NC Division of Public Health (DPH) works to promote and contribute to the highest possible level of health for the people of North Carolina – Everywhere, Everyday, Everybody.

At the State Laboratory of Public Health (SLPH), we provide medical and environmental laboratory services such as testing, consultation, and training, to public and private health provider organizations responsible for the promotion, protection, and assurance of the health of North Carolina citizens. SLPH serves the entire state as a reference laboratory for difficult, unusual, or otherwise unavailable laboratory procedures and assist in the development, evaluation, and standardization of medical and environmental laboratory testing procedures. We provide training and consultation to improve and assure quality services in other laboratories and certify milk and water laboratories and milk analysts. We test for Acanthamoeba to Zika and everything in between! Visit our website at http://slph.ncpublichealth.com to learn more.

Campus Amenities and Benefits at the State Laboratory of Public Health

• 220,000 square feet campus built in 2012

• Plentiful Free Parking

• Easy access to shopping centers, the state art museum, healthcare providers, and highways (70, 40 and 440)

• Break Rooms with Vending Machines, Ice Machines, Coffee Makers, Magazines, and Commercial Grade Microwave Ovens

• Patio Dining with Umbrellas

• Weekly Food Trucks, including Double Food Truck Fridays

• Car Cleaning and Detailing Services On-site bimonthly

• Wellness Activities

• Fitness Center with Exercise Equipment and Classes

• Annual Flu Shot Clinic for Employees and Families

• Monthly and Quarterly Workshop Sessions

• Employee Engagement and Staff Development Activities

• NCSLPH Employee Recognition Programs

• State Health Plan and State of NC Employee Benefits

Bachelor’s degree in medical technology, microbiology, chemistry or a closely related biological science field from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of experience in a medical laboratory or in the assigned work area;

OR

an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary Special Qualifications:

Must be capable of meeting the Federal CLIA 88 personnel requirements for a general supervisor in a laboratory performing high complexity testing.