Microbiology Laboratory Technician I

Class Concept

This is technical work performing a variety of routine, standard and moderately complex microbiological procedures and analyses on drinking water, non-potable water and milk from both public and private sources. Procedures and quality control checks performed by employees can include multiple tube presumptive, confirmed and completed tests, membrane filter, microscopic and macroscopic examinations and other routine or special water tests and analyses. Employees also perform a variety of dairy procedures including plate count, coliform count, mastitis test, phosphatase and inhibitory substances tests. Employee checks incoming sample forms for completeness, interprets data to determine whether the sample should be analyzed and which routine procedure to use. Work includes researching reference works to identify bacteria and aid in the interpretation of results, recording results and reporting results of positive tests, including identifying why any tests were positive. Work may include other duties as assigned by management. The employee generally works independently but will consult with higher level technicians or their supervisor on unusual situations, problems or results.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of computers.
• Considerable knowledge of the basic principles, reference sources, and laboratory applications of microbiology and biology.
• Considerable knowledge of scientific methodology.
• Considerable knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations concerning water and milk quality. Thorough knowledge of the hazards of laboratory procedures and related safety practices.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Ability to perceive colors normally and make olfactory distinctions.
• Ability to independently perform and record laboratory tests and procedures.
• Ability to express technical information clearly in both oral and written form.
• Ability to record scientific observations accurately.

Minimum Education and Experience

Associate's degree in medical laboratory technology from an appropriately accredited institution; or High School or General Educational Development (GED) diploma and completion of a certified laboratory assistant course in medical technology and one year of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary Special Requirements

Certification by the FDA as a certified milk analyst will be required of new employees.