Microbiologist I

Microbiologist I (S)The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services provides services that promote and improve agriculture, agribusiness, and forests; protect consumers and businesses; and conserve farmland and natural resources for the prosperity of all North Carolinians. The Department employs approximately 2,000 employees.The Food & Drug Protection Division (FDPD) protects the health, welfare, and economic interests of consumers of foods, drugs, livestock feeds, fertilizers, and medical devices by ensuring, through inspections and analysis, that these products are wholesome and properly labeled. This position is located in the FDPD Microbiology Laboratory, which performs microbiological analyses of food, meat, poultry, feed, and environmental samples using cultural techniques, enzyme-linked fluorescence assays (ELFA), real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), automated and manual biochemical tests, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization with time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF), whole genome sequencing (WGS), and serological methods. Through these methods, the FDPD Microbiology Laboratory detects, characterizes, identifies, and enumerates pathogenic bacteria and other microorganisms indicative of unacceptable quality.This position's primary job functions are: performing microbiological analysis of regulatory samples using traditional and molecular microbiological techniques; reviewing data for completeness, accuracy, and consistency with standardized operating procedures; performing quality assurance, quality control, and laboratory support tasks to maintain laboratory readiness; and performing testing and support tasks per the laboratory's Quality Management System and ISO 17025 requirements.Recruitment Range: $52,592 - $64,000Experience with at least one of the following: bacterial identification; serology; immunoassays; PCR; LAMP; VIDAS; VITEK; MALDI; or microscopyAbility to independently and accurately perform standardized and non-standardized complex tests under stringent time restrictions and accurately document workAbility to work with pathogens, including Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, Cyclospora cayetanensis, and Staphylococcus aureusAbility to communicate effectively and work collaborativelyAbility to apply organizational skills and high level of attention to detailAny employment offer may be less than the maximum of the range due to salary equity with similarly situated employees or the selected candidate's related education and experience. Please follow the instructions to apply online. It is important that your application includes all your relevant education and experience. Text or attached resumes ARE NOT accepted as a substitution for a completed application. Applicants seeking veteran's/National Guard preference should submit a copy of their Form DD-214, NGB 23A (RPAS), DD256 or NGB 22.All Law Enforcement positions, aviation safety-sensitive positions, and positions requiring a Pilot's License or a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) shall be subject to pre-employment drug testing. All positions requiring a Commercial Driver's License shall also be subject to pre-employment DMV physicals. Selected applicants must obtain a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) medical certificate prior to employment. If a CDL is listed as a preference and the selected applicant has a CDL at the time of hire, then the CDL will become a requirement for the position.Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in microbiology, food science or a related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and one year of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.EEO Statement: The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.