Molecular Biologist III

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Functional Title: Molecular Biologist III 
Job Title: Molecular Biologist III 
Agency: Dept of State Health Services 
Department: Microbiology 
Posting Number: 14361 
Closing Date: 03/16/2026 
Posting Audience: Internal and External 
Occupational Category: Life, Physical, and Social Science 
Salary Range: $5,434.39 - $6,249.55 
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-21 
Shift: Day 
Additional Shift: Days (First) 
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework 
Travel: Up to 5% 
Regular/Temporary: Regular 
Full Time/Part Time: Full time 
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt 
Facility Location:  
Job Location City: AUSTIN 
Job Location Address: 1100 W 49TH ST (DBGL) 
Other Locations:  
MOS Codes: 230X,43BX,43TX,71A,SEI12 
 
 
 

BRIEF JOB DESCRIPTION:

Under limited supervision of the TB Clinical Group Manager and TB Analysis Team Lead, following standard protocols, performs highly complex and advanced molecular testing and typing using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Performs DNA/RNA extractions for PCR and Whole Genome Sequencing of M. tuberculosis complex and Candida auris specimens and isolates in a BSL3 laboratory. Performs identification of mycobacteria using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and nucleic acid amplification (NAA). Assists with the identification of Candida and Mycobacteria using MALDI-TOF.  As a senior Molecular Biologist, performs administrative functions necessary for Team effectiveness in the absence of the Team Lead, as assigned. Monitors daily work schedule; assists Team Lead to prioritize and to make work assignments, and to resolve workload problems. Consults and coordinates with Team Lead to assure that the Team QA Plan is implemented and followed. Ensures standard protocols and proper quality controls are followed for all the tests performed in the lab. Assists in evaluating the quality of reagents and in managing material resources. Initiates troubleshooting of molecular tests and instruments and completes routine adjustments as directed by Team Lead/Group Manager. Assists with the development and implementation of additional molecular and epidemiological techniques. Performs presentations and training as arranged Completes other duties as assigned. Duties are performed with adherence to standard protocol but with considerable latitude to use scientific knowledge, initiative, and judgment.  

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS (EJFs):

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned. Based on the work area, consistently complies with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. 

EJF 1. Under the technical guidance of the Group Manager/Team Lead, develops and performs highly complex (senior-level) molecular biology work in a BSL3 laboratory. Performs nucleic acid extractions for PCR and Whole Genome Sequencing for the detection and identification of M. tuberculosis complex species and Candida auris in human clinical samples and cultures. Processes specimens or cultures with various extraction methods following validation study and approved protocols. Performs the identification of M. tuberculosis complex and other AFB directly from clinical specimens using HPLC and NM protocols. Performs the identification of Candida and Mycobacteria using MALDI-TOF. Works in harmony with other Team members to complete testing effectively. (40%)

EJF 2. Performs administrative functions necessary for Team effectiveness in the absence of the Team Lead. Monitors daily work schedule; assists Team Lead to prioritize work, make work assignments, and resolve workload problems. Works in harmony with other molecular biologists to complete testing effectively. Helps to coordinate workflow within the team and with other teams. Coordinates with Team Lead to ensure that critical results are reported by telephone or email as appropriate. Provides consultation regarding test results with DSHS internal and external customers. Provides presentations and one-on-one bench training as arranged. Participates in the interview and selection process for vacant positions. ( 15%)

EJF 3. Consults and coordinates with Team Lead to assure that the Team QA Plan is implemented and followed. Investigates quality assurance problems, recommends, and implements approved corrective actions. Ensures standard protocols and proper quality control (QC) are followed for tests performed in the lab. Assists in evaluating the quality of reagents and in managing material resources. Initiates troubleshooting of molecular tests/instruments and completes adjustments as directed by Team Lead/Group Manager. Evaluates daily QC records, performs preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment, and ensures records are updated daily. Prepares solutions or reagents as needed/assigned. Ensures an up-to-date inventory of unique supplies and reagents is available. (15%)

EJF 4. Analyzes test data to identify unusual patterns of either specimen submission or test results. Evaluates results, reviews, and releases reports. Assesses atypical test results, consults with Team Lead/Group Manager and orders re-test as directed. Assists Team Lead/Group Manager with the root cause analysis of an incorrect report and the initiation of a corrective action to ensure accurate and consistent results are reported to customers. (10%)

EJF 5. Assists with the performance of antimicrobial susceptibility tests, specifically minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) determinations and bacterial or fungal identification procedures. MIC testing is performed by microbroth dilution and E Test platforms. Identification procedures include, but may not be limited to, MALDI-T OF analysis. (10%)

EJF 6. Assists with development and implementation of molecular and epidemiological techniques. Researches current scientific literature, selects, interprets, and shares information for adaptation in the lab. Performs evaluation/validation studies and presents data to Team Lead/Group Manager. Assists Team Lead/Group Manager in drafting and reviewing standard operating procedures (SOPs). Updates computer data files, software programs, and SOPs as directed by Team Lead/Group Manager. Participates in a cross-training as both a student and an instructor by teaching and/or demonstrating molecular techniques to other laboratory personnel, volunteers or students and documenting training for staff. (5%)

EJF 7: Completes other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or continuity of operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may
require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location (5%)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs):

Comprehensive knowledge of microbiology, biochemistry and molecular biology. Knowledge of automated and non-automated microbiology laboratory analysis systems including skill in the operation of molecular laboratory equipment and in the use of a computer and applicable software. Ability to conduct advance molecular analyses and tests, to interpret molecular biology test results, to prepare reports, and to develop procedures. Knowledge of quality assurance functions and systems. Ability to perform manipulation of clinical specimens and cultures with speed, accuracy and safety while using aseptic techniques under a biological safety cabinet. Knowledge of unidirectional workflow and aseptic techniques to reduce the potential for contamination. Skill in manipulating complex laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy and safety. Ability to communicate molecular biology concepts, technical instructions and interact effectively with staff. Ability to plan, assign and monitor the work of others. Ability to recognize and solve work area problems. Ability to maintain work area instruments. Ability to work independently and make technical decisions based on professional knowledge and experience. Ability to use a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis and results reporting. Ability to conduct process improvement investigations. Ability to review and make recommendations based on study data.

REGISTRATIONS, LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS OR CERTIFICATIONS:

N/A

INITIAL SCREENING CRITERIA:

-Have earned a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institution and have over two years of experience in high complexity laboratory testing; or

-Have earned an associate’s degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science, or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution and have at least three years of experience in high complexity laboratory testing. 

-Experience and education may be substituted as defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88) Standards.

-Molecular biology lab experience, required.

-Have at least 1 year of MALDI-TOF experience, required.

-Clinical mycobacteriology lab experience, preferred.

-Knowledge of mycology, preferred.

-Biological safety cabinet experience, preferred.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.

Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, and Work Eligibility:

• The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
• Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
• DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.  Download the I-9 form