Laboratory Scientist II

General Description The Wyoming Public Health Laboratory (WPHL) seeks a Clinical Microbiologist/Lab Scientist to join our Bacteriology Laboratory team. The WPHL plays a crucial role in safeguarding public health by providing laboratory services to identify infectious diseases of public health importance in Wyoming. In this role, you will perform high-complexity testing and analyses, contributing to diagnosing, monitoring, and managing infectious diseases. Your work will directly impact public health initiatives, including efforts to control and prevent disease outbreaks in the state. Essential Functions Perform high-complexity testing in bacteriology, parasitology, and molecular biology, including bacterial genome sequencing and molecular identification (PCR, DNA extraction, sequencing analysis). Identify bacteria through culture methods, using phenotypic or biochemical reactions, and maintain bacterial stock cultures for future reference. Operate complex laboratory equipment, including MALDI-TOF (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time of Flight) for bacterial identification and real-time PCR platforms. Enter results into the laboratory information system (LIMS), review, print, and send reports to submitters and epidemiologists, ensuring timely and accurate reporting. Communicate critical results to submitters and document all communications appropriately. Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations (CLIA, HIPAA) and Wyoming Department of Health reportable disease requirements. Perform daily laboratory maintenance tasks, including ordering supplies, maintaining inventory, checking and recording temperatures, and managing waste control and disinfection. Conduct quality control of media, reagents, and laboratory instruments, and ensure all preventive maintenance is completed on laboratory equipment. Write, update, and maintain all standard operating procedures (SOPs) for bacteriology, ensuring alignment with current practices and regulations. Perform and document all required quality control procedures and record-keeping for inspections and audits. Train and educate other laboratory personnel, providing cross-training in various lab sections as needed. Assist with the implementation of new assays, tests, and other special projects or assignments as they arise. Apply biosafety principles and maintain adherence to all safety protocols in the laboratory environment. Participate in annual proficiency testing and ensure the lab meets accreditation and quality standards. Qualifications Minimum qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree (typically in Science). Experience: 0-3 years of progressive work experience (typically in a medical or environmental laboratory) with knowledge at the level of a Laboratory Scientist I; or 4-6 years of progressive work experience with the same level of knowledge. Bachelor’s degree or higher in clinical laboratory science, medical technology, molecular biology, microbiology, biology, biochemistry, or a related field (as applicable). Hands-on experience with MALDI-TOF and real-time PCR platforms. Proficiency in using laboratory information systems (LIMS) for result management and reporting. ASCP certification is preferred. Knowledge of CLIA, HIPAA, and other state or federal regulatory requirements. Strong biosafety and quality control experience in a laboratory environment. Experience with writing and updating standard operating procedures (SOPs) in bacteriology or similar disciplines. Knowledge of microbiology and molecular biology principles, and proficiency with microbiological techniques and molecular techniques (DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing). Strong communication, organizational, and training abilities; ability to work independently and as part of a team. Additional Information The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The organization supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities as required by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr