Careers

Description:

The Washington State Department of Health Laboratory is on a mission to protect and improve the health of residents across Washington State. In this vital on-site role within the Environmental Microbiology Lab, you will contribute directly to public health by conducting essential environmental testing. Your work will include viral pathogen testing in wastewater for SARS-CoV-2, RSV, Mpox, and Influenza A/B, as well as environmental testing for Legionella, West Nile Virus, and marine water quality for the Shellfish Program. You’ll also assist with sample accessioning, inventory management, and sample preparation, while ensuring laboratory equipment is monitored, supplies are restocked, and workspaces are clean and organized.

Supporting lead scientists with accurate reporting and filing analysis results is another key part of this role. If you’re seeking an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, collaborate with passionate scientists, and grow your expertise in environmental research, this position offers a chance to be part of a mission-driven team making a difference in public health.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform routine molecular testing for SARS-CoV-2, Legionella, West Nile virus, and other pathogens using standardized methods.
• Conduct sequencing of environmental samples (e.g., wastewater) for SARS-CoV-2.
• Ensure quality control of reagents and accurate analysis and timely reporting of all submitted samples.
• Perform standardized bacteriological testing on marine and drinking water samples for total and fecal coliforms, E. coli, and other microorganisms.
• Conduct quality control testing on media used in bacteriological testing and monitor sterilization effectiveness in autoclaves.
• Enter test results into the laboratory database (LIMS) and prepare reports for review and submission.
• Perform daily monitoring, maintenance, and cleaning of laboratory equipment to ensure compliance and proper functionality.
• Follow quality assurance standards and document media control results, notifying supervisors of any issues.
• Support updating of SOPs and maintain laboratory accreditation requirements.
• Maintain lab workspaces and ensure equipment is clean, functional, and properly maintained.

Skills/Eligibility:

You Will Be Successful at the DOH If: 

• You embrace cultural humility by honoring diverse perspectives and cultures.
• You are committed to equity and inclusion, removing barriers, championing social justice, and fostering a sense of belonging.
• You use an outward mindset to make impactful contributions, blending your personal expertise with collaborative achievements.
• You excel at problem-solving and crafting effective solutions while communicating clearly across different mediums.
• You are dedicated to customer service and navigate diverse interactions to build strong organizational relationships.
• Your technical competence shines, making you an invaluable asset to our team!

What We’re looking for – Required Qualifications:

We value all relevant experience, whether paid or unpaid and your diverse experiences can make a difference in this role. To be considered for this position, you must meet one of the required qualification options listed and any additional qualifications included in the required qualifications section. Education can substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis.

To enter at the Microbiologist 1 level: (NOTE: Incumbents that are hired at the Microbiologist 1 level will advance to the Microbiologist 2 level after completing two (2) years of satisfactory service as a Microbiologist 1.)

• Option 1: Bachelor’s degree or higher in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Cell biology, Biology, Chemistry, or another related field which includes 20 or more semester hours or quarter hours equivalent in microbiology, or a subject related to the study of microorganisms. 

• Option 2: Two (2) or more years of experience in a Microbiology or Molecular laboratory including 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution which includes either 24 semester hours of microbiology – OR – 24 semester hours of science courses that include six (6) semester hours of chemistry, six (6) semester hours of biology, and twelve (12) semester hours of chemistry, biology, or public health in any combination.

To enter at the Microbiologist 2 level:

• Option 1: Bachelor’s degree or higher in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Cell biology, Biology, Chemistry, or another related field WHICH INCLUDES 20 or more semester hours or quarter hours equivalent in microbiology, or a subject related to the study of microorganisms. AND the following experience:
  1. Two (2) or more years of experience in a Microbiology or Molecular laboratory.
  2. A master’s degree in the aforementioned areas will substitute for 1 year of experience.
  3. A PhD in the aforementioned area will substitute for 2 years of experience.

• Option 2:  Four (4) or more years of experience in a Microbiology or Molecular laboratory including 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution which includes either 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses - OR - 24 semester hours of science courses that includes six (6) semester hours of chemistry, six (6) semester hours of biology, and twelve (12) semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination.

Preferred Qualifications:

The qualifications below are what would make you a strong fit for this role. While these aren’t required, having them can help y