Public Health Microbiologist I -Temporary
Job description
The County of San Luis Obispo's Health Department is hiring a Temporary Public Health Microbiologist I. The final filing deadline for this position has been extended to March 23rd, 2023.
Public Health Microbiologist I is part of a career series for Public Health Microbiologist I and II. Classes in this series perform a variety of microbiological and chemical tests in a public health laboratory; and does other related work as required.
Typical Tasks and Representative Duties
Performs 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; keeps accurate records and prepares reports of examinations; prepares or supervises preparation of stains, media and reagents; advises health personnel and public regarding proper methods of specimen collection and transport; reviews professional literature and relays pertinent information; assists in training laboratory personnel; assists in the development of new procedures.
Distinguishing Characteristics
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.
This recruitment may be used to fill future permanent, substitute, limited term, and temporary positions, both full-time and part-time. Temporary positions are not eligible for benefits.
Employment Standards
Knowledge of:
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.
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.
Minimum Qualifications
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.
Applications, including answers to supplemental questions, must be submitted online by the final filing date. Most County recruitments require you to respond to supplemental questions as part of the application process. We recommend that you review these questions prior to beginning your application.
An initial application review will be conducted. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and are best qualified will be invited to participate in selection activities which may include online assessments, performance exams, written exams, and interviews.
Final candidates will be required to have an in-depth background review performed before proceeding in the process. Please note that references will not be contacted until the end of the process.
If you have questions or would like to discuss the opportunity further, please contact Human Resources at ha.humanresources@co.slo.ca.us. Confidential inquiries are welcomed.
Are you relocating to San Luis Obispo? Check out these resources to help you stake your claim in this beautiful county:
- Affordable Housing
- Movers, Rentals, Maps and more
Student Loan Forgiveness for Public Employees
Did you know that if you are employed by a government agency you may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program? Click on the link below to learn more about eligibility for this benefit.
https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service
Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment. Please call 805-781-5959 for assistance or e-mail hr@co.slo.ca.us for more information.
COVID-19
Pursuant to recent California Department of Public Health orders, workers in designated facilities and positions are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and/or submit to weekly COVID-19 testing. If your position is determined to fall under the State orders, you will be required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or submit to weekly COVID-19 testing, where applicable.
Make a Difference
Employees of the County of San Luis Obispo are public servants who impact the lives of our community every day. From supporting efforts to reduce homelessness, keeping our drinking water clean, or serving the families in need in the community, County employees make a difference.
Compensation and Benefits
Your annual salary is supplemented by a generous benefit package.
For additional information regarding the benefits listed that may be available to you, visit the associated Benefits-At-A-Glance webpage (click here for link).
Some benefits include:
- Medical (PPO, EPO), Dental (HMO, PPO) and Vision Insurance
- Cafeteria (County contribution to pay for insurance premiums)
- Free visits to the employee health clinic
- Mental Health resources/benefits
- Voluntary insurance plans (life insurance, disability, critical illness and many more)
- A lifelong retirement benefit through the San Luis Obispo County Pension Trust
- Optional deferred compensation Plan with up to $500 per year match
- Tax savings accounts (medical and dependent care)
- Paid personal, sick and vacation days
- 12 paid holidays
- Employee Assistance Program
- Education and Wellness Allowance
- Post Employment Health Plan
- Family Friendly workplace policies
- Flexible work schedule options
- Rideshare commuter benefits
The County of San Luis Obispo has been recognized as a Diamond Level Family Friendly Workplace by San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce. We support our employees through: childcare assistance, flexible scheduling practices, paid and unpaid leave, comprehensive health benefits, flexible spending accounts, and employee assistance programs.
Learning and Development
The County prioritizes your learning, personal and professional development, and career growth. Employees have access to over 1500 on-demand courses, instructor led courses, and job-specific trainings.
Employees can take courses to upskill to make themselves more competitive for promotional opportunities and further their career growth. Examples of courses include:
- Emotional Intelligence
- Supervisor/Manager academies
- Microsoft Suite courses
- Defensive Driving
- Financial management
- Retirement preparedness
- Teambuilding
- Written Communication
- Conflict Management
- Clifton StrengthsFinder and DISC
- Job specific conferences/trainings
Student Loan Forgiveness
Did you know that if you are employed by a government agency you may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program
County employees also have access to GotZoom, a program that offers tools and support to navigate your federal student loans.
Homebuyer assistance program
Employees have access to the “Assist-to-Own” program sponsored by Golden State Finance Authority (click here for link to more information) to get a loan for the down payment.
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