The Department of General Services, Division of Consolidated
Laboratories (DCLS) seeks a qualified candidate to serve as a Scientist in the
Food Microbiology Section of the Epidemiologic Support Group. The Food
Microbiology laboratory performs classical and advanced microbiology testing on
food and environmental samples for the presence of bacterial agents or
associated toxins during foodborne outbreaks or in support of food recalls
under the investigation by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer
Services (VDACS) and Virginia Department of Health (VDH). This individual will
be responsible for performing routine surveillance and emergency response
testing for the isolation and characterization of foodborne pathogens occurring
naturally or as a result of terrorism and communicating these findings to
agencies such as the Virginia Department of Health, VDACS, USDA, and the FDA.
In addition, duties may include development and validation of new methods,
performing QA/QC procedures in support of ISO 17025 standards, maintaining
accurate records, training of scientific staff and use and maintenance of
equipment. This position may require work to be performed in a BSL-3 laboratory
if testing requires higher levels of containment. This position will provide
support to testing and laboratory objectives of the Food and Drug
Administration Food Emergency Response Network Microbiological Cooperative
Agreement Program. The FDA FERN MCAP requires working with a wide array of
simple and complex matrices and requires proficiency to perform testing on a
variety of food types.
Qualifications: The selected
candidate must possess a Bachelor of Science degree in Food Microbiology,
Microbiology, Medical Technology, or related field. The successful applicant
should have work related experience and technical knowledge with the following:
isolation and identification techniques in food microbiology; complex
microbiology techniques involving different sample matrices including food;
complex computer interfaced instrumentation and computerized laboratory
information management systems; complex data analysis; toxin detection using
ELISA or other methods; and quality assurance and quality control.
Preferred Qualifications: Preferred experience
includes the following: Experience working in a biosafety level three
environment; experience working in an ISO 17025 quality environment; and
experience with molecular testing methodologies. The ability to lift up to 30
pounds and knowledge of laboratory safety is also required. The ability to work
well with others in a team atmosphere and effective communication (oral and
written) and computer skills are essential.
Special Requirements: This
is a restricted position funded by a federal grant, includes state benefits
package.
After hours and weekend work is required on a rotating schedule. The
selected candidate may be required to work on a Tuesday through Saturday
schedule routinely.
Applications will be accepted
until a suitable pool of candidates is received. After 5 business days,
this position may be closed at any time.
For more information please visit: https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/65771
Contact Information
Name: DGS Human Resources
Phone: 804-786-3910
Fax: 804-371-8305
Email: jobs@dgs.virginia.gov
Address: 1100 Bank
ST, STE 410 Richmond, VA 23219
