In addition to evaluating the applicant's relative knowledge, skill and ability as demonstrated by quality and breadth of education/experience, emphasis in each test component will be on measuring competitively, relative to job demands, each applicant's:
Knowledge of:
1.Microbiological principles, techniques, equipment, and terminology used in the laboratory for thedetection and identification of disease agents.
2.Quality control procedures applicable to the general field of microbiology.
3.Bacteriological principles, techniques, and terminology.
4.Immunology principles, techniques and terminology.
5.Common causes of diseases and methods of transmission and control of communicablediseases.
6.Scientific reference and information material.
7.Microbiological pathogens and common non-pathogens with clinical, environmental, or publichealth significance.
8.Methods of disease transmission and epidemiological principles.
9.Basic mathematical and statistical methods for data analysis.
10.Scientific terminology and notation to communicate with other scientists and physicians in acommon language.
11.Quality control and quality assurance principles and regulations, as well as its application tolaboratory operations and record keeping in accordance with federal regulations.
12.The use, maintenance, and principle of operations of laboratory equipment used for analyticaltesting and environmental control to assure proper operation and valid laboratory results.
13.Laboratory safety regulations, principles and procedures for the identification and control ofchemical and biological hazards routinely encountered in the public health laboratory.
14.Common computer programs, (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite), to meet program objectives.
15.Laboratory resource materials including current literature to improve laboratory operations and forpreparation of materials for publication.
16. Disease progression in the human host for the selection and timing of proper specimen collection and testing.
17. Procedures for detection and identification of microbiological disease agents.
18. Patient confidentiality principles and information security practices as required by laboratory policy and federal regulations.
19. Basic chemistry, microscopy, immunological, and molecular principles in order to understand and perform standardized laboratory assays and develop new testing methods.
Skills to:
1. Safely perform laboratory operations including work with cultures, diagnostic specimens, pathogenic organisms, and laboratory equipment (such as, biological safety cabinets, sharps and autoclaves), to ensure the safety of the laboratory environment and staff.
2. Recognize and solve problems in performance of test assays, equipment, and data that significantly impact the quality of results to assure high quality laboratory results.
3. Effectively and accurately communicate, both verbally and in writing, with staff, the public, other state and local agencies to provide information and direction.
4. Read and comprehend the scientific literature, directives, manuals, reports, and other job related documents to maintain a suitable knowledge base and enable performance of complex laboratory tasks.
5. Effectively lead a group, including coaching and mentoring, to improve performance, productivity and expertise.
6. Identify project resources and deadlines in order to prioritize work assignments, establish timelines for completion, and to assure that project goals are met.
7. Devise an effective and innovative research protocol for the purpose of evaluating new methods.
8. Design training presentations and/or programs to maximize the effectiveness of employee knowledge and participation.
9. Provide expert advice and assistance to staff and external constituents concerning implementation or application of new and existing policies and procedures.
Ability to:
1. Work on multiple projects and assignments simultaneously under pressure from timelines, while maintaining appropriate priorities.
2. Adapt to changes and priorities of work assignments and policies which may impact courses of action for completion of projects and assignments.
3. Communicate verbally in a clear and effective manner with departmental staff and state and local agencies when providing consultation and technical guidance.
4. Interact and collaborate with staff of various job descriptions and backgrounds in order to foster team building and cooperation.
5. Perform varied microbiological laboratory tests efficiently and safely.
6. Maintain, organize, and keep laboratory records.
7. Clearly communicate complex concepts to other scientists for consultation or training.
8. Problem solve and troubleshoot when problems occur in the laboratory.
9. Evaluate effectiveness of training, analyze problems in the laboratory and take appropriate action according to established management policies.
10. Follow written or verbal direction to complete laboratory tasks and assignments, ensure safety, and accomplish laboratory goals and policies.
11. Maintain confidentiality of sensitive issues, including patient and employee information.
12. Critically review scientific literature and assess its potential applications.
13. Represent the department in a professional manner in interaction with the public, scientific community, and legal proceedings.
14. Work at a lead capacity or as part of a team, remaining attentive to ideas, recognizing responsibilities, and actively participating with others to accomplish assignments.
15. Work independently to complete laboratory work, adjust priorities and meet deadlines.
16.Operate and adapt to complex office and laboratory equipment, such as computers, officemachines, microscopes, centrifuges, and balances.
17. Reform varied and specialized microbiology laboratory tests.
18.Provide technical guidance to laboratory staff.
19. Retain records and compare reports.
20.Analyze situations accurately and take effective action.
21.Work cooperatively and effectively with others.
22.Practice proper safety precautions and procedures.
