What are the responsibilities and job description for the Virology Technician position at Harris County?
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About Harris County Public Health:
Harris County Public Health (HCPH) includes a network of more than 1,100 public health professionals working together to improve health outcomes for the third most populous county in the United States. HCPH provides a multitude of services such as medical and dental services, community programming, and health education for the approximately 2.3 million people in unincorporated Harris County. Through its core values of innovation, engagement, and health equity, HCPH strives to bring meaningful solutions to public health issues while keeping Harris County healthy and vibrant.
Position Overview:
Under the supervision of the Virology Manager, the Virology Technician will assist the Virology team with tasks and responsibilities related to vector-borne disease testing. The results of testing will guide treatment and intervention strategies to protect the residents of Harris County from vector-borne diseases.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Assists with preparation and testing samples to isolate arthropod-borne diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, birds and ticks.
- Process mosquito and other arthropod vectors for microbiological detection using various molecular assays to include ELISA, qPCR, and Ramp test methods.
- Maintains and ensures compliance with laboratory biocontainment, biosafety, laboratory protocols, policies, and regulations.
- Responsible for the quality assurance and quality control of laboratory equipment, records, reagents and other chemical while maintaining inventory of all laboratory supplies, media, and reagents.
- Ensures that all laboratory equipment is cleaned, disinfected, and organized daily.
- Performs daily temperature checks of incubators, refrigerators, freezers, and ensure laboratory instruments are calibrated and maintained.
- Prepare laboratory supplies and make ready for testing.
- Maintains the virology database.
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or emailADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net
This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Education:
- High school Diploma or GED.
- At least six (6) months of biological science experience.
- Valid Driver’s License (Texas upon hire) along with a good driving record.
- Experience in molecular biology such as qPCR or ELISA.
- Strong documentation and organizational skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively and professionally in a team with diverse backgrounds.
- Understands the organizational mission.
- Ability to adapt to change and work under pressure.
- Ability to work well independently with limited supervision for completion of test procedures.
- Excellent aseptic technique and microbiological skills common to a bio-containment laboratory.
Core Competencies:
Organizational Leadership
- Understands the organizational mission.
- Understands ethics and public good; is concerned with public trust.
- Demonstrates respect for the opinions and beliefs of others.
Collaboration
- Contributes to an inclusive workplace where equity, diversity, inclusion, and individual differences are valued and leveraged to achieve the vision and mission.
- Demonstrates a sense of responsibility for the success of the group.
- Collaborates with others to improve quality and address needs.
Innovation
- Ability to adapt to change.
Interpersonal Abilities/Personal Characteristics
- Treats others with courtesy, sensitivity, and respect.
- Behaves in an honest, fair, and ethical manner.
- Assesses and recognizes own strengths and weaknesses.
- Uses sound judgment.
- Self-motivated.
- Organizes and maintains work environment to allow for maximum productivity.
Communication
- Communicates clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.
Bachelor's degree in Basic Science or related field from an accredited college or university.
At least one (1) year of microbiological experience.
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:
- This is a regular - full time position.
- Up to 40 hours per week.
- Days and hours may vary based on the operation needs.
Work Environment:
- This job operates in a professional laboratory and office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.
Physical Demands:
- Must be in good health and have adequate physical strength and able to lift 35 lbs. This position might also require bending & standing for periods at a time.
Work Location:
- Harris County Public Health: Mosquito & Vector Control Division - 3330 Old Spanish Trail, Houston, Texas. 77021
Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.
Salary : $31,200
