San Luis Obispo County, California

Conditional employment offers are based on successful completion of any preappointment background investigation, drug testing, and medical/psychological evaluation.

ABOUT THE POSITION: Classes in this series perform a variety of microbiological and chemical tests in a public health laboratory; does other related work as required; Public Health Microbiologist I: Under general supervision, performs a wide variety of microbiological, chemical and similar biological tests; may train and advise non-professional personnel and non-specialist professional personnel. Public Health Microbiologist II: Under direction, performs and supervises the performance of the more difficult and complex microbiological, biological and chemical tests; supervises specific testing units in the laboratory, such as serology and tuberculosis; trains and advises nonprofessional and professional personnel.

TYPICAL TASKS: Perform microbiological and chemical examinations for the detection, identification and control of microbial disease agents and other impurities, including bacteriological, chemical, serological, parasitological, mycological, and viral tests, using a variety of laboratory equipment; keep accurate records and prepare reports of examinations; prepare or supervise preparation of stains, media and reagents; advise health personnel and public regarding proper methods of specimen collection and transport; review professional literature and relay pertinent information; assist in training laboratory personnel; assist in the development of new procedures.

THE REQUIREMENTS:
Knowledge of: Public Health Microbiologist I: Bacteriological, serological, mycological, parasitological and other microbiological principles, techniques and terminology used in the examination of body fluids, foods, air and water; common causes of disease; methods of transmission and control of communicable diseases; proper laboratory safety precautions and procedures; laws, regulations and standards pertaining to public health laboratory programs. Public Health Microbiologist II: The above, plus: Specialized microbiological techniques; principles of effective supervision.

Ability to: Public Health Microbiologist I: Accurately perform microbiological laboratory tests; do varied and difficult laboratory work; keep records and make reports; analyze situations accurately and take effective action; work cooperatively and effectively with others; observe proper safety precautions and procedures.  Public Health Microbiologist II: The above, plus: Accurately perform specialized medical, microbiological analyses; conduct highly technical research in method development work; act as consultant inside and outside of the department; establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, public and allied health personnel.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Public Health Microbiologist I: Possession of valid Public Health Microbiologist Certificate issued by California State Department of Public Health is required at time of application and must be maintained throughout employment. Public Health Microbiologist II: Possession of a valid Public Health Microbiologist Certificate issued by the California State Department of Public Health is required at time of application and must be maintained throughout employment. In addition, two years of experience as a certificated Public Health Microbiologist or licensed Clinical Laboratory Microbiologist or licensed Clinical Laboratory Scientist.

NOTE: This is only a partial job description.  For a complete job description, go to http://www.slocounty.ca.gov/hr or contact the Personnel office at (805) 781-5959. IN ADDITION: This class specification generally describes the duties and responsibilities characteristic of the position(s) within this class. Duties of a particular position within a multiposition class may vary from the duties of other positions within the class. Accordingly, the essential functions of a particular position (whether it be a multi-position class or a single-position class) will be identified and used by medical examiners and hiring authorities in the selection process. If you have questions regarding the duties or the working conditions of the position, please contact the Personnel Department at (805) 781-5959.

AGENCY SHOP: Employees hired into classes represented by SLOCEA labor contracts are covered by Agency Shop provisions which require that new employees become SLOCEA dues paying members or pay an agency shop service fee in lieu of dues.

NOTIFICATION: Applicants will be notified 6-8 weeks after the final filing date. Some recruitments may take less or more time depending on the type of exam and number of applicants.  Notifications will be posted on the Applicant Status Board for each phase of the recruitment process and will be sent by US mail and/or email.  Therefore, notify the Personnel Department of any mailing address or email address changes for all applications submitted.

SELECTION PROCESS: Applicants may be evaluated by use of an application, screening board, written examination, and/or oral board. Veterans or disabled veterans preference points will be assigned when applicable. The top nine or more ranks shall be certified for appointment consideration. Any part of this selection process may be changed.  Eligible lists may be used to fill regular, limited term or temporary positions. New employees are required to complete an INS Employment Eligibility Verification form to certify citizenship or legal residency and authorization to work.  Essential functions of a job for purposes of the Americans with Disabilities Act will be determined prior to the filling of each vacant position.  A reasonable effort will be made to accommodate the needs of the disabled and the religious needs of an applicant.  If you require special arrangements to participate in the recruitment process, you must inform the County Personnel Department in writing of the type and extent of accommodation no later than the final filing deadline.  Information relating to the essential duties of a position are identified and used by medical examiners and hiring authorities in the selection process and are available upon request for review during a recruitment. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER.