Microbiologist I (VRDL) (Biotech)

SUMMARY 

The Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL) seeks a Microbiologist I candidate to immediately begin work in responding to the ongoing COVID crisis and other emerging outbreaks. The successful candidate will perform important laboratory testing to detect and identify the virus that causes COVID-19. Applicants must possess a bachelor's degree in a biological science AND must either be a certified Public Health Microbiologist or have microbiological laboratory experience. The incumbent should be experienced in working with viruses, standard precautions, and familiarity with PCR techniques. Maintaining an organized, neat, and clean work environment, working well in a team environment, and being organized and detail-oriented are essential.  

The position is in Richmond, CA, and is funded through July 31, 2026. Extension is dependent upon available funding.

Must submit a resume with the application. 

The hourly range for this position is $32.30 to $37.70 per hour, depending on experience/ qualifications.

Must be able to work flexible hours that may include weekends and holidays.

If hired for this position, applicant will be required to provide proof of full vaccinated for COVID-19 prior to the start date; or have a valid religious or medical reason qualifying the applicant for an exemption (that may or may not require accommodation). The applicant will need to have the qualifying exemption. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

• Performs, interprets, and reports complex diagnostic and reference testing for virus and host immune response by direct viral detection, including specialized cell culture procedures, fluorescent labeled antibody assays, neutralization, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), sequencing, enzymatic based assays and general virus identification methods according to SOPs.
• Reports laboratory test results using STARLIMS.
• Ensures adherence to Quality Assurance protocols and standards.
• Maintains laboratory records of specimens, virus stocks, and reagents.
• Develop and optimize methods and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for comprehensive DNA sequencing using short- and long-read sequencing technologies.
• Perform work according to established internal safety and quality guidelines and procedures, as specified by appropriate external regulatory agencies (e.g., OSHA, CLIA, FDA).
• Maintain laboratory supplies and ensure proper cleanliness and sanitation under Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and/or Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
• Assist with other Infectious Disease Laboratory Division (IDLD) activities and testing in other CDPH sections to enhance capacity during laboratory surges.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge and experience with laboratory work environments (BSL-2 minimum), sterile technique, and molecular (PCR; sequencing) techniques are required
• Experience with standard precautions for working with potentially infectious clinical specimens, particularly working in class II BSC
• Ability to perform micromanipulations such as pipetting small volumes and other fine measurements using laboratory instrumentation and equipment
• Demonstrate attention to detail
• Experience with high-throughput laboratory automation, computational skills, or a basic understanding of programming languages is a plus
• Ability to conduct and report on scientific experiments while maintaining careful attention to detail, safety, and good laboratory practices
• Strong communication skills, self-motivation, and proven ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams
• Excellent organizational, prioritization, and planning skills to ensure projects are completed under established deadlines and timelines

 Education/Experience

• Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited university with coursework in chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, or related scientific fields.

Certificates/Licenses

• Possession of a California Public Health Microbiologist certificate or eligibility for the Public Health Microbiologist training program is preferred but not required.

Other Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing
• Ability to work independently and adapt to varied work settings
• Ability to work effectively with a team of diverse individuals
• Ability to multi-task and work effectively under pressure

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Stand: Frequently
• Walk: Frequently
• Sit: Frequently
• Handling / Fingering: Frequently
• Reach Outward: Occasionally
• Reach Above Shoulder: Occasionally
• Climb, Crawl, Kneel, Bend: Occasionally
• Lift / Carry: Occasionally - Up to 30 lbs
• Push/Pull: Occasionally - Up to 50 lbs
• See (Vision): Constantly
• Taste/ Smell: Not Applicable

KEY

• Not Applicable: Not required for essential functions.
• Occasionally: (0 - 2 hrs/day)
• Frequently: (2+ - 5 hrs/day)
• Constantly: (5+ hrs/day) 

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

General office and laboratory setting, indoors, temperature controlled.

EEOC STATEMENT 

It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Heluna Health is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer that encourages minorities, women, veterans, and disabled to apply.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

See job description