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Microbiologist (DOH/SLD #32116)

Salary

 

$21.96 - $32.94 Hourly

$45,680 - $68,520 Annually

This position is a Pay Band C5

Posting Details

 
Interviews are anticipated to be conducted within two weeks of closing date.

Why does the job exist?

 
This job directly assists with the monitoring of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) levels in wastewater at various congregate settings across the state of New Mexico. Information provided from this type of monitoring is utilized by decision makers responsible for making public health decisions that help control the spread of COVID-19.

How does it get done?

 
Conducting digital Polymerase chain Reaction (PCR) testing for SARS-CoV-2 on raw wastewater samples collected from various state facilities throughout the state of New Mexico. Samples are concentrated and nucleic acid extraction and purification are carried out using a paramagnetic bead kit. Digital PCR for SARS-CoV-2 is carried out on the nucleic acid eluates to determine the levels of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater.

Who are the customers?

 
Citizens of New Mexico, the New Mexico Department of Health, New Mexico Environment Department, Epidemiology, Response Division and Centers for Disease Control.

Ideal Candidate

 
Bachelor's Degree in biological sciences with an emphasis in Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or Chemistry. At least two years of laboratory analysis experience. Someone who practices very good aseptic technique, who works well independently and in team settings.

Minimum Qualification

 
Associate Degree in biological sciences with emphasis on chemistry, mathematics, and/or computer science and two (2) years experience in biology, microbiology, virology, parasitological, and/or molecular biology specialization in a laboratory setting. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling four (4) years may substitute for the required education and experience.

Employment Requirements

 
This position is designated a safety sensitive. Employment is subject to pre-employment and random testing, in accordance with all terms and conditions of federal and state law, rules and regulations in relation to alcohol and/or drug testing.

Capable of passing Department of Justice/Federal Bureau of Investigation (DOJ/FBI) security clearance for access to laboratories holding Select Agents, as defined by 42CFR73, ¿Possession, Use, and Transfer of Select Agents and Toxins¿. Must obtain Hepatitis B and Rabies vaccination, able to differentiate colors, use of sterile techniques, and good manual dexterity. 

Must possess and maintain a valid New Mexico Driver's License. Must possess and maintain a current Defensive Driving Course certificate from the State of New Mexico or must pass and receive a Defensive Driving Course certificate. In state and out of state travel may be required. Successful completion of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is required.

Working Conditions

 
Work is performed in a fully functional laboratory containing biological, chemical, physical, and radiological hazards. Incumbent will be required to use all applicable safety equipment provided by the employer and follow all safety precautions specified by the employer. There will be extended standing, repetitive trunk/arm/hand/neck movements with computer usage or assay/methodologies utilized. Work involves using high voltage electronic instrumentation, and high-pressure gas cylinders. Ability to lift/push up to 50 lbs.

Supplemental Information

 

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Agency Contact Information: Hema Chellappa, Hema.Chellappa@doh.nm.gov, Email

For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.

Bargaining Unit Position

 
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and all terms/conditions of that agreement apply and must be adhered to.

Date Posted
06/20/2026
Job Reference
164630
Organization
Department of Health, State of New Mexico
Location
Albuquerque, NM
Category
Biology
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