Molecular Biologist I

Molecular Biologist I Location: Austin, TX Employee Benefits DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). For more information about benefits and early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page. Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when applying to State of Texas Jobs. Brief Job Description Under moderate supervision of the Virology and Immunology Branch Manager and the technical guidance of the Clinical Virology Team Lead, performs complex procedures to identify viruses following standard protocols, while using Biosafety Level 2 and 3 practices. Processes and identifies viruses using molecular methods, including real‑time RT‑PCR. Performs testing with stringent quality assurance, accuracy, and efficiency. Assists in monitoring and maintaining quality assurance and workflow. Duties performed with limited latitude for scientific knowledge, initiative, and independent judgment. Essential Job Functions EJF1. Performs nucleic acid extractions using manual and automated methods and real‑time RT‑PCR for detection of viruses. Viruses include but are not limited to Influenza, COVID‑19, Mumps, Measles, Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya. Follows SOPs per CAP and CLIA. Maintains accurate records, enters results into LIMS, tracks specimen progress. EJF2. Follows QA processes, performs instrument maintenance, maintains supplies, prepares reagents, performs QC testing, documents all QC and validation, orders glassware. EJF3. Assists other staff, notifies supervision of malfunctions, provides training, performs other tasks as assigned. EJF4. Assists in development of new procedures, reviews literature, provides summaries, participates in continuing education. EJF5. Complies with all guidelines, participates in disaster response or COOP activation, may work alternate shift patterns, participates in weekend, holiday, and after‑hours testing as needed. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs) Knowledge of basic virology, microbiology, and molecular biology; procedures and equipment in diagnostic molecular virology; safe lab handling; communications; computer usage; team interaction; organization. Initial Screening Criteria Earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution; or earned associate’s degree in a related field. Experience and education may be substituted per CLIA standards. Preferred Experience Experience performing molecular testing in a clinical setting; laboratory experience identifying viruses and/or pathogens. Additional Information Military occupations that relate to the selection criteria include 230X, 43BX, 43TX, 71A, SEI12. For more information, see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk ( Applicants must list all college‑level biology, microbiology, and chemistry courses on application. For diplomas awarded in foreign countries, contact Laboratory Personnel Services View phone number on click.appcast.io) for credentialing agencies. Selectee may be immunized against rabies virus and other highly infectious agents; DSHS will provide and arrange for immunization. Selectee must have no color vision problems. Work schedule: willing to work outside 8am‑5pm, may include weekend/holiday work and travel to professional meetings. HHS agencies use E‑Verify; applicants must bring I‑9 documentation on first day. Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans All active‑duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. ADA Accommodations In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If accommodation is needed for the interview process, notify the scheduling person. For assistance with the online application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at View phone number on click.appcast.io or email View email address on click.appcast.io. Salary Information and Pre‑employment Checks The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds. Applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks. DSHS uses E‑Verify. Bring I‑9 documentation on first day of work. Download the I‑9 form. Nearest Major Market: Austin #J-18808-Ljbffr