MICROBIOLOGIST IV

Job Description

POSITION OVERVIEW

Applications Accepted from: All Persons Interested

Division: Public Health Science and Surveillance
Section: Laboratory Services
Location: 2250 Holcombe Blvd
Work days & Hours: M - F, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.* ( *Subject to change)

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The Houston Health Department is seeking a qualified candidate for the position of a Microbiologist IV to perform the following duties:
The Microbiologist IV serves as a senior technical lead and operational specialist overseeing daily bacteriology, enteric pathogen culture-based, culture independent pathogen identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST). This position provides workflow leadership across the general microbiology section, directing complex specimen processing, and routine diagnostic testing. The role ensures strict compliance with CLIA/CAP regulatory standards, maintains Quality Control/Quality assurance (QC/QA) bench protocols, oversees LIMS data entry and result verification, and leads technical troubleshooting . Additionally, the General Lead assists supervisor by training microbiologists, monitoring bench efficiency, updating SOPs and maintaining readiness for outbreak response and public health surveillance initiatives.

Job Responsibilities:

• Performs high-complexity diagnostic procedures
• Manages specialized testing workflows for high-priority clinical pathogens.
• Conducts molecular analysis.
• Performs quality control (QC) on reagents, media, and equipment to ensure total laboratory quality and diagnostic integrity.
• Maintains adherence to CLIA and CAP regulations
• Oversees daily work activities of staff, including reviewing work and training.
• Oversees grant-funded testing, which include technical deliverables, data reporting, and milestones.
• Collaborates with public health partners and clinical constituents to provide technical consultation and facilitate the transfer of critical diagnostic data.
• Contributes to the development and validation of new testing protocols to expand the laboratory's internal test menu.

WORKING CONDITIONS
This position is physically comfortable; the individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc. There are no major sources of discomfort in a normal office environment.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Biology, Bacteriology, Microbiology or a closely related field.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Four (4) years of experience in laboratory work dealing with bacteriology, serology or virology are required.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
None.

PREFERENCES

**Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.**

GENERAL INFORMATION

SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED
Application review and/or interview. However, the Department may administer a skill assessment evaluation.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION Yes
If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

Pay Grade 23

SALARY INFORMATION
GRANT FUND POSITION
Grants & Special funded positions are dependent upon continued available funds. If funding is no longer available, employee may be laid off or transferred. Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov.

To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call 832-393-4888.

If you need special services or accommodations, call (832-393-4888). (TTY 7-1-1)

If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.

Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.

All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.

EOE Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

The city offers a competitive benefits program, including competitively priced health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan. Benefits include:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Wellness
• Supplemental Insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability
• Retirement pension
• 457 deferred compensation plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• 10 days of vacation each year
• 13 city holidays, plus one floating holiday
• Compensable Sick Leave
• Personal Leave
• Flexible schedules
• Hybrid-Telework for eligible positions
• Professional development opportunities
• Transportation/parking plan
• Section 125 pretax deductions
• Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
• Paid Prenatal, Parental and Infant Wellness Leaves
• Healthcare Flexible Spending Account

For plan details, visit http://www.houstontx.gov/hr/benefits.html

Closing Date/Time: 10/15/2026 11:59 PM Central