8173C3
Pay Grade: 25
DEFINITION OF WORK
Summary
This is specialized, professional work in microbiology for a laboratory.
Work involves performing a variety of standard microbiological analyses of clinical or environmental specimens. Work requires the performance of analytical procedures to determine the presence, absence or concentration of analytes, the identification of causative agents of an infectious disease, or the presence or absence of a contaminant.
Standard Classification Factors
Supervision Received - LEVEL B: "Under general supervision…" Employees working under general supervision usually receive some instructions with respect to the details of most assignments but are free to develop their own work sequences within established procedures, methods and policies. They are often physically removed from their supervisor and subject to only periodic checks.
Difficulty - LEVEL B: Average… Where the employee is confronted with a variety of duties susceptible to different methods of solution which, in turn, places a correspondingly higher demand upon resourcefulness and concentration. Positions which require the analysis and evaluation of raw data and the rendering of conclusions would, in many instances, fall into this category.
Complexity - LEVEL B: Work is of a structured nature including duties that have several related steps. This level involves simple analysis of data, identification of easily distinguishable facts and recognition of differences in related situations. Workers at this level exercise limited independent judgment in determining methods or procedures to be used in making minor decisions. Work is normally controlled by frequent review and consultation with supervisors. When guidelines exist at this level, they are usually specific and aid in determining an approach to problems or situations. Workers at this level must be able to identify basic differences in situations to determine the actions which need to be taken.
Consequence of Actions or Decisions - LEVEL C: Consequences of actions or decisions at this level are limited in scope and effect as the work is reviewed occasionally. Errors may cause moderate inefficiency. Costs due to errors may be significant.
Contacts - LEVEL A: The purpose of the contact is to obtain, clarify, give or screen established factual information, regardless of the type (i.e., easily understood or technical) within a well-defined relationship. Normal communication skills are required.
Physical Demands - LEVEL B: The work requires light physical exertion. The employee may be required to perform handling activities with lightweight or easily moved items (e.g. books, file folders, boxes of office supplies, small machine parts, etc.); perform moving activities for brief periods; operate light equipment; perform repetitive motions for brief periods; confined to a work area.
Environmental Conditions - LEVEL B: The work environment involves moderate hazards, risks or discomforts. Exposure to minor deviations from pleasant environmental conditions is normal. Minor to serious injuries are possible.
Supervision/Leadership - LEVEL A: No supervisory or leadership responsibility; may explain work instructions or assist in training others.
Distinguishing Features
Differs from the Microbiologist II class in which the incumbents perform professional microbiological work through standard and advanced microbiological analyses of clinical or environmental specimens.
EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED
Performs standard microbiological examinations on a variety of clinical specimens in order to detect the presence or absence of opportunistic or pathogenic microorganisms.
Tests blood specimens for the presence and titer of antibodies for a number of antigenic substances.
Performs routine microbiological examinations of surface and drinking water as well as sewage and industrial waste.
Performs quality control procedures and records results in order to ensure validity of laboratory tests performed.
Performs standard bacteriological and microscopic examinations of foods, milk and other dairy products.
Prepares culture media, stains, solutions, and reagents for use in analytical procedures.
Prepares reports of microbiological procedures performed.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS
Knowledge
*Knowledge of the basic principles and practices of microbiology and of laboratory methods of diagnosis of communicable diseases.
*Knowledge of modern microbiology laboratory methods, materials, equipment, safety procedures and laboratory computer usage.
*Knowledge of the operation of applicable laboratory equipment and apparatus such as balances, microscopes, biological cabinets, and pH meters.
Abilities
*Ability to use and care for laboratory equipment.
*Ability to perform necessary mathematical calculations.
*Ability to make and record scientific observations accurately.
*Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow workers, supervisors, and the public.
*Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
*Necessary at Entry
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology or Chemistry or other related fields. Experience may be substituted for education as determined relevant by the agency.
NC: 06/93
REV: 12/95
REV: 10/98
REV: 02/00
REV: 06/03
REV: 08/03
REV: 08/05
REV: 06/07
REV: 06/08