Reference #: 4365374 THE POSITION Are you looking for an opportunity to gain valuable experience in the field of microbiology? The Department of Agriculture is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to perform critical scientific work within the Veterinary Labs Division as a Limited-Term Microbiologist 1. If you are interested in an exciting opportunity to contribute toward protecting the health and safety of Pennsylvanians, we want you to join our team!

DESCRIPTION OF WORK As a Microbiologist 1, you will be responsible for performing standard molecular diagnostic tests to identify the genetic sequences of infectious agents, such as avian influenza, in laboratory specimens obtained from diagnostic investigations or surveillance activities. You will extract DNA and RNA from samples and analyze these samples by molecular assays such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), reverse transcriptase PCR, and sequencing in order to detect the specific nucleic acid signature of each infectious agent. Other duties you may be accountable for include preparing reagents, buffers, and solutions for molecular diagnostic applications, as well as calculating concentrations, serial dilution, and measurements.

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

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 may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time up to 1 day a month. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. Salary:In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable. You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.   REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

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.

Other Requirements: You must meet the . For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the  and click on Residency. You must be able to perform essential job functions.

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). This posting requires submission of a copy of your college transcript(s).  Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.  You may upload your document as an attachment during the application process.  You must still complete the application and answer the supplemental questions.  All documents MUST be uploaded prior to the submission of your application. 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  and click the Veterans' Preference tab or contact us at .

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If yo 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.

EXAMINATION INFORMATION

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.

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.