Public Health Laboratory Scientist I

Job Announcement

Are you looking for a position that offers you…

• Opportunity to make a difference by serving those most in need
• Work collaboratively with community partners to address public health priorities.
• Focus on health education, health promotion and disease prevention
• A learning culture
• Work life balance
• Supportive team environment
• Amazing benefits

Then look no further. Come join the Fairfax County Health Department team and use your skills and abilities to “Protect, promote and improve the health and quality of life for all who live, work and play in our community”.

The Fairfax County Health Department is a progressive public health leader serving 1.2 million residents from diverse ethnic, cultural and economic backgrounds. We invite you to apply to become a member of our thriving workforce, together making a difference in the health of our community!

Under general supervision, performs a variety of moderate and high-complexity laboratory testing in all areas of the FCHD laboratory including: Accessioning, Microbiology, Mycobacteriology, Rabies, Urinalysis, Parasitology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Toxicology, Environmental Chemistry and Environmental Microbiology. Assesses and ensures specimen quality for laboratory testing. Operates testing systems and methodologies to produce accurate and timely data for patients, quality control, and proficiency samples. Reports data accurately and efficiently to healthcare providers/environmental health specialists utilizing computerized laboratory information system (LIS). Demonstrates knowledge of operational and regulatory standards. May perform on-site testing at FCHD clinics in support of STD program. May participate in training and orientation of new staff on laboratory techniques and methods. Participates in professional growth opportunities to enhance personal and team development. This position requires active participation in one of the laboratory’s internal committees, Quality Assurance, Safety. Participation on agency- wide or county-wide committees is highly recommended.

 

• Click here to watch a video on Working for Fairfax County Government
• Click here to watch a video on benefits offered by Fairfax County Government

Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities

(The knowledge, skills, and abilities listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list.)
Knowledge of basic principles of biology, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry or organic chemistry methods and techniques in a clinical laboratory;
Knowledge and application of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use and its limitations for duties assigned;
Skill in the care and use of laboratory equipment including microscopes and accessory equipment;
Ability to perform technical laboratory procedures in a precise and accurate manner;
Ability to pay close attention to detail;
Ability to work independently and part of a team;
Ability to comprehend and follow written and oral instructions;
Ability to communicate technical information to internal and external customers;
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships;
Ability to interpret and follow standard technical instructions;
Knowledge of laboratory hazards and procedures;

Employment Standards

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor's degree in medical/clinical laboratory science, microbiology, or chemistry, or a degree in a directly related field of study; Plus  (1) year recent relevant experience performing CLIA non-waived or environmental testing in a clinical or public health laboratory.

CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES REQUIRED:

• Valid driver's license (Required)
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification- (Required within 60 days)
• Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Certification (Required within 60 days)

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check, child protective services check, sanction screenings and driving record check to the satisfaction of the employer.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least one year of experience performing clinical testing in a clinical or public health laboratory setting.
• Experience with microbiological and molecular procedures, safety, and quality assurance.
• Experience utilizing Laboratory Information System (LIS).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to read, analyze, interpret and communicate complex scientific, technical, administrative and educational documents.
• Experience responding effectively to sensitive inquiries or complaints from both internal and external clients.
• Experience working in a BSL-3 environment with infectious agents such as Tuberculosis.
• Possess valid certificate in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or Medical Laboratory Science issued by a nationally recognized accreditation organization.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to drive a motor vehicle. Generally, works in a laboratory and office setting but will be required to work in other non-office environments including clinics, or other buildings and outdoors; Ability to work in all weather conditions and during daytime and nighttime hours, as required. Must be able to participate fully as a member of the Health Department s Laboratory emergency response unit. Job is generally sedentary in nature, and requires walking, standing, sitting (for long periods of time), and kneeling, reaching, bending, climbing stairs; may be required to lift or carry up to 25 lbs. with or without assistance, as required for the position. Position frequently communicates and must be able to exchange accurate information with others verbally and in writing. Uses hands to grasp, handle, or feel. Must possess manual dexterity sufficient to work with small instruments and delicate laboratory equipment. Visual acuity is required to read data on computer monitor, digital display and/or laboratory equipment, ability to operate keyboard driven equipment and computer and use of touchscreen; and to distinguish fine gradation of color, bands, or structure and closely examine specimens microscopically. All duties performed with or without reasonable accommodations.

SELECTION PROCEDURE:
Panel interview and may include exercise.

The population of Fairfax County is very diverse where 38.7% of residents speak a language other than English at home (Spanish, Asian/Pacific Islander, Indo-European, and others) and we encourage candidates bilingual in English and a foreign language to apply to this opportunity.

Fairfax County Government prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. DHREmployment@fairfaxcounty.gov EEO/AA/TTY.