Microbiologist 1 (Limited Term)

Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey in the realm of microbiology? The Department of Environmental Protection is on the lookout for a passionate individual to take on the vital role of Microbiologist I, contributing significantly to our Bacteriology, Plankton, and Protozoan Laboratories. This is an opportunity to apply your expertise in a way that truly matters, making a lasting impact on scientific research and environmental stewardship. We eagerly anticipate your application to join our esteemed team, committed to excellence and innovation.

In this role, you will be responsible for preparing samples for analytical purposes. Your duties will encompass receiving and logging samples, preparing them for analysis, and executing specialized processes for concentration, isolation, and purification in accordance with established protocols. Additionally, you will conduct analyses on water and wastewater to detect sanitary indicator bacteria, plankton, and pathogenic protozoans, while also managing data entry and supporting various tasks within the Biological Services Section.

You will analyze environmental water samples, including both water and wastewater, to assist with the section's workload throughout the harmful algal bloom season. The analytical tasks may involve methodologies such as chromogenic and fluorogenic enzyme substrate assays, membrane filtration, heterotrophic plate count, and microscopic examination of bacterial colonies and harmful algae.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Limited term, full-time employment
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• A bachelor's degree in microbiology; or
• A bachelor's degree that includes 20 credits in microbiology, cellular biology, molecular biology or bacteriology and 12 credits in chemistry or biochemistry.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree/credits.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. *7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
• Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
• Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
• You must provide complete and accurate information or:
  • your score may be lower than deserved.
  • you may be disqualified.
• You may only apply/test once for this posting.
• Your results will be provided via email.