Public Health Microbiologist I/II

Salary : $52,707.20 - $81,993.60 Annually

Location : Oroville/Chico Area, CA

Job Type: Term

Job Number: 2411823304T

Department: Public Health Department

Opening Date: 09/09/2024

Closing Date: 12/31/2024 11:59 PM Pacific

Summary

This position is pending approval by the Board of Supervisors on September 24, 2024. Interviews will be scheduled after that date.

This is a term position working in the Public Health Laboratory in Chico in the EPIC Division. For terms and conditions concerning the appointment of a Term employee, see Section 6.13j of the Butte County Merit System and Personnel Rules. This term position is currently scheduled to expire on June 30, 2026.

The salary rage for level I is $2,027.20 -$2,716.80 biweekly ($25.34 -$33.96 per hour). The salary range for level II is $2,353.60 - $3,153.60 biweekly ($29.42 - $39.42 per hour).

FLSA: Non-Exempt

DEFINITION

Under general supervision (Public Health Microbiologist I) or general direction (Public Health Microbiologist II) performs technical and specialized duties in microbiological, biological and biochemical analysis to detect and identify microbial agents; studies growth, development and general characteristics of micro-organisms, analyzes test results, and reports findings to support the goals of the Public Health Department; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision (Public Health Microbiologist I) or general direction (Public Health Microbiologist II) from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Public Health Microbiologist I: This is the entry-level classification in the Public Health Microbiologist series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine laboratory procedures and assignments. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and complex; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the Public Health Microbiologist II-level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Public Health Microbiologist II: This is the journey-level classification in the Public Health Microbiologist series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Public Health Microbiologist I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

Positions in the Public Health Microbiologist I/II class series are flexibly staffed; positions at the II-level may be filled by advancement from the I-level; progression to the II-level is dependent on (i) management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the classification; (ii) satisfactory work performance; (iii) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications; and (iv) management approval for progression to the II-level.

This class is distinguished from the Senior Public Health Microbiologist in that the latter performs the more complex work assigned to the series, including functional and technical lead direction over lower-level staff.

Essential Job Functions

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Typical functions may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, abilities, and other characteristics. The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks.

• Carries out responsibilities in accordance with state and federal laws and regulations, and county policies and procedures; assures the quality and accuracy of the laboratory tests.
• Examines laboratory samples and specimens; isolates and identifies bacteriological specimens; directs and conducts the testing process to diagnose pathogenicity mechanisms, microbial agents and communicable diseases; conducts tests and examinations for bacteriology, mycology, serology, parasitology, mycobacteriology, and virology.
• Determines absence or presence of disease threat, and the nature of any abnormal conditions.
• Assists in validation of the microbiology laboratory by following state guidelines.
• Validates microbiology test methods; monitors and validates the calibration of microbiology instruments; monitors and tests laboratory environment.
• Assures sterilization and cleanliness of work area, instruments, equipment and the laboratory environment.
• Performs rabies testing including animal necropsy and reading slides.
• Prepares samples for shipment to outside contract laboratory for reference testing.
• Consults with, and serves as a resource and technical authority to local physicians, clinical and hospital personnel.
• Prepare written reports of investigations conducted.
• Conducts laboratory inventory to include monitoring expiration dates; orders supplies; researches product information; assures adequate stocks of supplies and products.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• County, state and federal statutes, rules, ordinances, codes and regulations.
• County and department policies and procedures.
• Occupational safety and health rules and regulations, and their specific applications to a microbiology laboratory.
• Qualitative microbiology techniques, and laboratory and technical equipment.
• Microbiological test method development and validation, sampling methods, automated identification and quality control systems.
• Sterile techniques and environmental monitoring.
• Scientific and standard computer applications and programs.
• Principles and practices of file and records management, and laboratory documentation procedures.
• Principles and practices of inventory control.

Ability To:

• Research, analyze and evaluate new methods, procedures and techniques.

• Respond to inquiries from management, medical community and regulatory agencies.
• Data collection and analysis, and mathematical and statistical calculations.

• Assess and prioritize multiple tasks, projects and demands.
• Work within deadlines to complete projects and assignments.
• Establish and maintain effective working relations with co-workers, other county employees and representatives from other county, state and Federal agencies.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, or Chemistry; and

Public Health Microbiologist I: None.

Public Health Microbiologist II: Two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in public health microbiology equivalent to the Public Health Microbiologist I-level.

Certifications and Licenses:

• Must be licensed as a Public Health Microbiologist by the State of California, and remain active with all annual licensing requirements.
• Must possess a valid US driver's license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver's license following hire date per California DMV regulations.

Environmental Factors and Conditions/Physical Requirements

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• May be required to lift and carry items weighing up to 30 pounds.

• May be exposed to potential physical harm from hazardous chemicals, infectious diseases, blood-borne pathogens, toxic materials, toxic gases, electrical hazards, dangerous tools and equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work is performed in a laboratory environment, full manual dexterity and visual acuity required.

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS UTILIZED

• Equipment utilized includes personal computer, fax machine, and standard office equipment.
• Special equipment includes incubator, autoclave, vortexes, centrifuge, Biosafety cabinets and other laboratory equipment and tool.

Disaster Service Worker

All Butte County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

Professional Employees Association (PEA)

THESE BENEFITS DO NOT APPLY TO EXTRA HELP EMPLOYEES

Salary Step Increases:
The beginning salary and the top of the salary range are usually shown on the job announcement. Upon satisfactory service, salary increases of approximately 5% may be given annually until the top of the salary range has been attained.

Cell Phone Allowance:
County issued cell phone or $70/month allowance with appointing authority approval.

Holidays:
12 paid holidays per year.

Vacation:
0-4.99 years: 15 days/yr.; 5-9.99 years: 20 days/yr.; 10-19.99 years: 25 days/yr.; 20+ years: 27 days/yr. Note - accrued vacation leave may not be used until after six months of employment.

Sick Leave:
96 hours of sick leave are earned each year with no maximum accrual.

Bereavement Leave:
Maximum of 40 hours for each occurrence in the immediate family.

Health Plan including Dental Insurance and Vision Insurance:
Coverage under the Butte County Health Plan is for employees and their eligible dependents. Depending upon the plan selected by the employee, the County contributes a substantial amount of the total cost of the complete health package, which consists of medical, vision, and dental insurance. Currently, the amount the County contributes for family coverage is $1357.42/month. For those employees who have health coverage from other sources, and who elect to not participate in the Butte County Health Plan, the County offers a monthly taxable Cash-Back allowance. The current of the taxable Cash-Back allowance is $503.34 per month (prorated for less than fulltime employees). This benefit is $300 per month for Employees hired on or after January 1, 2014.

Life Insurance:
The County provides $25,000 in life insurance with additional coverage available at a minimal cost.

Retirement:
The County is in the Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) coordinated with Social Security.

"Classic Members"- 2% @ 55. Final compensation based on Single Highest Year. Employee responsible for full 7% employee share effective 1/1/2013.

"New Members" to PERS- 2% @ 62. Final compensation based on Highest Three Year Average. Employee responsible for one half (1/2) the normal cost of the CalPERS Pension.
"New Member" is defined by law (PEPRA) as an "1) individual who has never been a member of any public retirement system prior to 1/1/2013 or 2) An individual who becomes a member of a public retirement system for the first time on or after January 1, 2013, and who was previously a member of a public retirement system, but who was not subject to reciprocity. or 3) An individual who was an active member in a public retirement system and who, after a break in service of more than six months, returned to active membership in that system with a new employer

Deferred Compensation:
The County offers a 457 Deferred Compensation program. Deposits into this plan are strictly voluntary and are made through a payroll deduction on a tax-deferred basis. The County does not make contributions to the employees' Deferred Compensation accounts.

Disability Insurance:
For short-term disability, the County participates in California State Disability Insurance (SDI) fund. County employees are also covered by an employee-paid long-term disability program. The long-term disability insurance benefit is 60% of the disabled employee's biweekly wage.

Flexible Spending Program:
County employees can elect to participate in a Flexible Spending Program. This program allows employees to use pre-tax dollars to pay for certain health care and/or dependent care expenses. In addition, employees can choose to have their portion of the monthly Health Plan premium withheld from their checks on a pre-tax basis as well. Generally, employees who participate in the Flexible Spending Program have less taxes withheld for their payroll checks than if they had elected not to do so.

Tuition Reimbursement:
Up to $500/year.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
The County of Butte provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees and their eligible dependents. The EAP offers confidential, professional counseling services.
Refer to specific labor agreements (PEA) for additional benefit information.

BUTTE COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Any information on this page or links is subject to change without notice.

Butte County Human Resources Department
3 County Center Drive, Oroville, CA 95965
(530) 552.3552

Comments, please email:

01

Are you licensed as a Public Health Microbiologist by the State of California and remain active with all licensing requirements?

• Yes
• No

02

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, or Chemistry; andPublic Health Microbiologist I: None.Public Health Microbiologist II: Two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in public health microbiology equivalent to the Public Health Microbiologist I-level.Which position(s) level(s) do you qualify for?

• Level I
• Level II
• None of the above

03

Please reference work experience and education listed in this application to support your answer to the previous question.

04

What answer accurately reflects the number of years' experience of progressively responsible experience in public health microbiology?*One year equals 2,080 hours.

• Less than one year
• 1-2 years
• 2-3 years
• 3-4 years
• 4-5 years
• More than 6 years

05

What is your highest level of education?

• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• Some college
• Associate's degree
• Bachelor's degree
• Master's degree or higher
• None of the above

06

Do you possess a US Driver's License?

• Yes
• No

07

How did you discover this job opportunity?

• Butte County Website
• Butte County Human Resources Social Media
• CareersInGovernment.com
• County Employee
• Craigslist.com
• Facebook
• Friend or Relative (word of mouth)
• GovernmentJobs.com
• Handshake
• Indeed.com
• Job Fair
• Job Interest Card - GovernmentJobs.com
• Linkedin
• Newspaper - Paper or Online
• Departmental Email
• Radio
• Magazine
• Billboard
• Other

08

MQ Qualification Level.

• Level I
• Level II

Required Question