Job Information
Opening Date/Time
07/21/2026 12:00AM Central Time
Closing Date/Time
08/03/2026 11:59PM Central Time
Salary (Monthly)
$4,562.00 - $5,694.00
Salary (Annually)
$54,744.00 - $68,328.00
City, State Location
Nashville, TN
LOCATION OF (1) POSITION(S) TO BE FILLED: DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, DAVIDSON COUNTY
This position is located at the Division of Laboratory Services in Nashville, TN.
A transcript with ALL credits is required (PDF encouraged) to be uploaded with an employment application in order to properly evaluate a candidate's eligibility for a position in this classification.
This position requires a criminal background check. Therefore, you may be required to provide information about your criminal history in order to be considered for this position.
Qualifications
Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Medical Laboratory Sciences or related field of study from an accredited college or university, at least three years of full-time, pertinent laboratory experience in a related field study; OR successful completion of a two-year from an accredited medical laboratory technician program and at least three years of full-time, pertinent laboratory experience in a related field study; OR meet CLIA Testing Personnel Qualification Category set forth in federal CMS regulations 42 CFR 493.1489 and at least three years of full-time, pertinent laboratory experience in a related field study.
Substitution of Education for Experience: Undergraduate and graduate course work received from an accredited college or university in a related field may substitute for the required education and experience on a year-to-year basis to a maximum of one year (e.g., 24 graduate semester hours or 36 graduate quarter hours in a related field may substitute for education and/or one year of the required experience). A transcript with ALL credits is required to be uploaded with an employment application in order for the agency to properly evaluate a candidate's eligibility for a position in this classification.
Necessary Special Qualifications: Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license throughout the duration of employment.
Overview
The PH Laboratory Scientist 3 for Special Microbiology assists with technical and non-technical laboratory, operational, and administrative activities in the TDH Division of Laboratory Services. Under general supervision of a PH Laboratory Manager or Director, the incumbent serves as Lead Scientist responsible for leading, coordinating, and conducting laboratory testing and operations of average difficulty, including but not limited to performing all phases of laboratory testing, training personnel, troubleshooting, coordinating and participating in public health projects, and performing data analysis and interpretation. This
position performs technical and instructional work with lead responsibilities that are broader in scope and more complex than a PH Laboratory Scientist 1-2.
Responsibilities
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Assist Laboratory Supervisor or Manager in Special Microbiology in daily operations and quality assurance, including but not limited to specimen/sample collection, processing, and performing all phases of laboratory testing to meet agency policies and procedures, regulatory and accreditation requirements, and organizational goals.
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Lead and contribute to the development, implementation, and routine use of laboratory processes, procedures, and troubleshooting practices for laboratory testing and operations.
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Lead, coordinate, and participate in laboratory projects and initiatives, data analysis and management, verification/validation studies, and process improvement activities.
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Facilitate and conduct technical and non-technical trainings for laboratory staff, students, fellows, and other professionals.
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Communicate and coordinate laboratory operational and testing activities/tasks with laboratory personnel, supervisor and/or managers. Notify laboratory supervisors and/or managers of any operational issues and maintain effective written and oral communications among personnel.
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Maintain knowledge of clinical and public health infectious diseases, environmental laboratory science, or related laboratory specialties and proficiency/competency in technical laboratory operations. Provide technical and non-technical consultation to laboratory personnel.
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Participate in laboratory section and division activities and initiatives.
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Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
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The responsibilities described indicate the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.
Competencies (KSA's)
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Manages Complexity
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Manages Ambiguity
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Action Oriented
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Directs Work
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Communicates Effectively
Knowledge:
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Sciences
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Informational Technology
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Clerical
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Customer and Personal Service
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Mathematics
Skills:
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Active Learning and Listening
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Critical Thinking
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Judgment and Decision Making
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Learning Strategies
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Quality Control Analysis
Abilities:
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Deductive Reasoning
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Mathematical Reasoning
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Speech Clarity
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Written Comprehension
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Problem Sensitivity
Tools & Equipment
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General Lab Equipment
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Lab Section Specialized Equipment
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Autoclaves
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Microscopes
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Computers
TN Driver Standards
State of Tennessee positions that may involve driving responsibilities require candidates to meet the following minimum driver qualifications:
- A valid driver's license
- For the past five years, the candidate's driver record must not have record of the following violations: driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, license suspension for moving violations, more than 4 moving violations.
Please include your Driver's License Information under the Licenses and Certifications section of your application.
**Agencies may allow an exception based on other factors.
