Public Health Microbiologist I/II

This is a term position working in the Public Health Laboratory in Chico in the EPIC Division. For terms and conditions concerning the appointment of a Term employee, see Section 6.13j of the Butte County Merit System and Personnel Rules. This term position is currently scheduled to expire on June 30, 2026.

FLSA: Non-Exempt

DEFINITION

Under general supervision (Public Health Microbiologist I) or general direction (Public Health Microbiologist II) performs technical and specialized duties in microbiological, biological and biochemical analysis to detect and identify microbial agents; studies growth, development and general characteristics of micro-organisms, analyzes test results, and reports findings to support the goals of the Public Health Department; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision (Public Health Microbiologist I) or general direction (Public Health Microbiologist II) from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Public Health Microbiologist I:  This is the entry-level classification in the Public Health Microbiologist series.  Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine laboratory procedures and assignments. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and complex; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the Public Health Microbiologist II-level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. 

Public Health Microbiologist II:  This is the journey-level classification in the Public Health Microbiologist series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Public Health Microbiologist I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. 

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Positions in the Public Health Microbiologist I/II class series are flexibly staffed; positions at the II-level may be filled by advancement from the I-level; progression to the II-level is dependent on (i) management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the classification; (ii) satisfactory work performance; (iii) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications; and (iv) management approval for progression to the II-level.

This class is distinguished from the Senior Public Health Microbiologist in that the latter performs the more complex work assigned to the series, including functional and technical lead direction over lower-level staff. 

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Typical functions may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, abilities, and other characteristics.  The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks.

• Carries out responsibilities in accordance with state and federal laws and regulations, and county policies and procedures; assures the quality and accuracy of the laboratory tests.
• Examines laboratory samples and specimens; isolates and identifies bacteriological specimens; directs and conducts the testing process to diagnose pathogenicity mechanisms, microbial agents and communicable diseases; conducts tests and examinations for bacteriology, mycology, serology, parasitology, mycobacteriology, and virology.
• Determines absence or presence of disease threat, and the nature of any abnormal conditions.
• Assists in validation of the microbiology laboratory by following state guidelines.
• Validates microbiology test methods; monitors and validates the calibration of microbiology instruments; monitors and tests laboratory environment.
• Assures sterilization and cleanliness of work area, instruments, equipment and the laboratory environment.
• Performs rabies testing including animal necropsy and reading slides.
• Prepares samples for shipment to outside contract laboratory for reference testing.
• Consults with, and serves as a resource and technical authority to local physicians, clinical and hospital personnel.
• Prepare written reports of investigations conducted.
• Conducts laboratory inventory to include monitoring expiration dates; orders supplies; researches product information; assures adequate stocks of supplies and products.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

• County, state and federal statutes, rules, ordinances, codes and regulations.
• County and department policies and procedures.
• Occupational safety and health rules and regulations, and their specific applications to a microbiology laboratory.
• Qualitative microbiology techniques, and laboratory and technical equipment.
• Microbiological test method development and validation, sampling methods, automated identification and quality control systems. 
• Sterile techniques and environmental monitoring.
• Scientific and standard computer applications and programs.
• Principles and practices of file and records management, and laboratory documentation procedures.
• Principles and practices of inventory control.

Ability To:

• Research, analyze and evaluate new methods, procedures and techniques.

• Respond to inquiries from management, medical community and regulatory agencies.
• Data collection and analysis, and mathematical and statistical calculations.

• Assess and prioritize multiple tasks, projects and demands.
• Work within deadlines to complete projects and assignments.   
• Establish and maintain effective working relations with co-workers, other county employees and representatives from other county, state and Federal agencies.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, or Chemistry; and

Public Health Microbiologist I:  None.

Public Health Microbiologist II:  Two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in public health microbiology equivalent to the Public Health Microbiologist I-level.

Certifications and Licenses:

• Must be licensed as a Public Health Microbiologist by the State of California, and remain active with all annual licensing requirements.
• Must possess a valid US driver’s license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver’s license following hire date per California DMV regulations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• May be required to lift and carry items weighing up to 30 pounds.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work is performed in a laboratory environment, full manual dexterity and visual acuity required.

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS UTILIZED

• Equipment utilized includes personal computer, fax machine, and standard office equipment.
• Special equipment includes incubator, autoclave, vortexes, centrifuge, Biosafety cabinets and other laboratory equipment and tool.

Disaster Service Worker

All Butte County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

Salary : $52,707 - $81,994