Description

This position is located in the Department of Forensic Sciences (DFS), Public Health Laboratory Division (PHL). The incumbent is responsible for providing scientific and technical oversight of molecular and serologic techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, realtime PCR (rtPCR), digital PCR (dPCR), rapid molecular platforms (e.g., GeneXpert), and automated serology assays. The incumbent supervises a team engaged in the detection, identification, and characterization of microorganisms from food, environmental, and/or clinical specimens, with a focus on pathogens of public health significance.

The Supervisory Microbiologist serves as the Technical Supervisor and is responsible for the programmatic and technical direction of diagnostic, surveillance, and environmental testing performed at the DC Public Health laboratory. The incumbent supervises various moderate and high-complexity molecular diagnostic and serology testing in accordance with the Clinical Laboratory Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), as well as other applicable professional standards and best practices.

The Supervisory Microbiologist develops and designs assay verification or validation and implements new tests and analytical methodologies in a laboratory in accordance with CLIA’88; Ensures robust quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) programs are in place and maintained. Investigates and resolves technical issues, ensuring appropriate remedial actions are taken and documented when test systems deviate from established performance specifications. Oversee all grant related activities, project timelines, deliverables, and resource allocation to support laboratory goals and public health priorities. Represents the laboratory in high-level meetings with District and external stakeholders as needed. Leads problem-solving initiatives, evaluates operational challenges, and implements effective solutions. Troubleshoots technical issues and develops alternative approaches when necessary.

The incumbent provides a full range of supervisory services, as required, to manage and direct the work efforts of subordinate staff and activities of assigned operations; develops quantitative and qualitative measures for evaluating the work performance of staff; supervises and assigns duties and responsibilities; formulates overall plans for resources; and identifies developmental and training needs and evaluates testing personnel competency.

How To Apply: To be considered for this employment opportunity, you will be required to submit a formal application. Please visit the DC Careers website at: https://careers.dc.gov (reference Job ID #32734). We look forward to reviewing your application! 

Requirements

Degree: microbiology; or biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included at least 20 semester hours in microbiology and other subjects related to the study of microorganisms, and 20 semester hours in the physical and mathematical sciences combining course work in organic chemistry or biochemistry, physics, and college algebra, or their equivalent.