Public Health Laboratory Scientist I

Are you looking for a position that offers you…

Opportunity to make a difference by serving those most in need
Work collaboratively with community partners to address public health priorities.
Focus on health education, health promotion and disease prevention
A learning culture
Work life balance
Supportive team environment
Amazing benefits
Then look no further. Come join the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) Laboratory team and use your skills and abilities to “Protect, promote and improve the health and quality of life for all who live, work and play in our community”.

The Fairfax County Health Department is a progressive public health leader serving 1.2 million residents from diverse ethnic, cultural and economic backgrounds. We invite you to apply to become a member of our thriving workforce, together making a difference in the health of our community!

Under general supervision, this position performs Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) regulated clinical and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulated environmental laboratory testing using approved methodologies to ensure quality control and compliance with regulatory standards. Testing supports the regulatory and public health functions of all areas of the FCHD Laboratory. Performs routine moderate to high complexity testing in the following laboratory areas: clinical chemistry, toxicology, hematology, microbiology, mycobacteriology, rabies, urinalysis, parasitology, immunology, molecular biology, environmental chemistry, and environmental microbiology. Assesses and verifies specimen integrity and suitability for laboratory testing. Operates laboratory instrumentation and testing systems to generate accurate and timely results for patient specimens, quality control, and proficiency testing samples. Conducts and documents quality control testing to ensure compliance with applicable regulatory authority, including CLIA and EPA. Reports data accurately and efficiently to healthcare providers/environmental health specialists utilizing computerized laboratory information system (LIS). Demonstrates knowledge of operational procedures and regulatory standards. May perform on-site testing at FCHD clinics in support of STI program. May assist in training and orientation of new staff on laboratory techniques and methods. Participates in professional growth opportunities to enhance personal and team development. This position requires active participation in one of the laboratory’s internal Quality Assurance or Safety committees. Participation on agency-wide or county-wide committees is highly recommended.
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Note: The salary offer for the position will be in the minimum to midpoint range ($56,905.26 to $75,873.41) and may NOT exceed the midpoint rate of the advertised compensation range. A salary offer above the midpoint rate requires additional approvals. Promotional rules apply for current Fairfax County Government and Fairfax County Public Schools employees.

May be required to provide after-hours, weekend or holiday coverage. May be required to serve as health department emergency responder.

 
Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities
 

(The knowledge, skills, and abilities listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list.)
LEVEL 1Knowledge of basic principles of biology, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry or organic chemistry methods and techniques in a clinical laboratory;
Knowledge and application of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use and its limitations for duties assigned;
Skill in the care and use of laboratory equipment including microscopes and accessory equipment;
Ability to perform technical laboratory procedures in a precise and accurate manner;
Ability to pay close attention to detail;
Ability to work independently and part of a team;
Ability to comprehend and follow written and oral instructions;
Ability to communicate technical information to internal and external customers;
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships;
Ability to interpret and follow standard technical instructions;
Knowledge of laboratory hazards and procedures;

LEVEL 2Knowledge of quality control, documentation, quality assurance, and professional and regulatory standards of laboratory practice in a certified laboratory;
Knowledge of quality control, documentation, quality assurance, and professional and regulatory standards of laboratory practice in a certified laboratory;
Ability to apply problem-solving skills to resolve issues such as troubleshooting instruments and testing failures;
Ability to make analytical judgments;
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;
Ability to operate, maintain and properly read various laboratory instruments;
 
LEVEL 3Ability to prepare clear, concise technical documentation and maintain accurate records;
Knowledge of policies, processes, and procedures related to corrective and preventive actions;
Knowledge of policies, processes, and procedures related to identifying and collecting quality improvement indicators;
Knowledge of rules and regulations regarding reportable diseases;
Ability to keep abreast of current developments in the field.