Posting Details
The Scientific Laboratory Division (SLD) is the sole public health, environmental, and drug laboratory for New Mexico. It conducts tests for infectious diseases threatening people, livestock and wildlife, as well as for hazardous materials and pollutants in our water, air and milk. It also tests for alcohol and drugs in DWI (Driving while intoxicated) criminal cases and for autopsy cases.
The Biological Sciences Bureau tests for indigenous and exotic infectious disease pathogens of public health significance. Towards this end, and in keeping with the mission of the laboratory, we test human clinical and animal specimens, autopsy and necropsy material, along with food, water, and dairy. Besides routine testing, we conduct regulatory and reference testing, as well as testing for outbreak investigation and surveillance
Interviews are anticipated to be conducted within two weeks of closing date.
Why does the job exist?
The Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention and the New Mexico Department of Health Epidemiology and Response Division need to track outbreaks. This position serves to assist in this endeavor.
How does it get done?
Work is performed both at a) computers to analyze data, perform data entry, write and review SOPs and reports and b) in the laboratory (BSL2 and BSL3) for extensive work in Biosafety Cabinets and at the bench, both standing and sitting; c) participate in meetings with supervisors and other sections. Analyst utilizes Next Generation Sequencing for outbreak surveillance and pathogen identification; works directly with section supervisors to assist workload.
Tests, troubleshoots and eventually validates new methods for implementation in the appropriate sections. Learns and performs clinical diagnostic testing using Molecular methods and complies with CLIA/CAP requirements as well as federal regulations for select agents and toxins. Prepares and responds to public health emergencies.
Who are the customers?
This job is done for Scientific Laboratories Division of the Department of Health and the State of New Mexico as well as for the Federal grants and entities that fund this position. The mission of the New Mexico Department of Healthy is to promote sound health policy, prevent disease and disability, improve health services systems, and assure that essential public health functions and safety net services are available to all New Mexicans.
Ideal Candidate
This job is done for Scientific Laboratories Division of the Department of Health and the State of New Mexico as well as for the Federal grants and entities that fund this position. The mission of the New Mexico Department of Healthy is to promote sound health policy, prevent disease and disability, improve health services systems, and assure that essential public health functions and safety net services are available to all New Mexicans.
Minimum Qualification
Associate Degree in biological sciences with emphasis on chemistry, mathematics, and/or computer science and two (2) years experience in biology, microbiology, virology, parasitological, and/or molecular biology specialization in a laboratory setting. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling four (4) years may substitute for the required education and experience.
Employment Requirements
This position is designated a safety sensitive. Employment is subject to pre-employment and random testing, in accordance with all terms and conditions of federal and state law, rules and regulations in relation to alcohol and/or drug testing.; Must obtain Hepatitis B and possibly Rabies vaccination; Must demonstrate sterile techniques, and good manual dexterity. Successful completion of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) certification.
Working Conditions
Office and Laboratory setting. Work is performed in a fully functional laboratory containing biological, chemical, physical, and radiological hazards. Incumbent will be required to use all applicable safety equipment provided by the employer and follow all safety precautions specified by the employer. There will be extended standing, repetitive trunk/arm/hand/neck movements with computer usage or assay/methodologies utilized. Work involves using high voltage electronic instrumentation.
Supplemental Information
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Agency Contact Information: Pascale Leonard,
[email protected], Email
For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.
Bargaining Unit Position
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and all terms/conditions of that agreement apply and must be adhered to.
