1/01/89 B

This is the first class in the Microbiologist series. Positions in this class are responsible for independently conducting and reporting the results of routine microbiological analyses for use in diagnosis of diseases or identification of disease agents. Non-routine analyses may be conducted under supervision. Testing categories include, but are not limited to, bacteriology, environmental bacteriology, immunohematology, immunology, serology, mycobacteriology, mycology, parasitology, virology, and metabolic diseases. This class is distinguished from the Microbiologist class in that the Microbiologist performs more complex and non-routine microbiological analyses independently.

Complexity of Work: Work is of routine difficulty requiring laboratory analysis of a variety of patient specimens or environmental samples. Section policies and procedures and standard testing methods are applied, not interpreted; routine analyses do not require compilation or interpretation of data, and typical results are visually apparent positives and negatives. Reports out-of-control and atypical test results to supervisor. Isolates and identifies disease agents, using well-established and fully documented standard testing methods and section quality control procedures. The work typically involves preparing samples and independently conducting a variety of routine analyses) conducting non-routine analyses under supervision, with all results being reviewed before being reported; completing work sheets for documentation and reporting of routine test results and statistical data, including initialing of test results for validation; performing and recording quality control checks on equipment and samples; communicating with laboratory service users regarding routine test results, test methods, or specimen handling; and performing routine preventive maintenance on equipment.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor.

Supervision Received: Work is performed under immediate supervision of a higher level microbiologist. Positions are expected to independently conduct and report routine analyses. Closer supervision is required during the conduct of non-routine analyses and/or when unusual situations arise.

Scope: Work affects ability of laboratory to provide routine test results for diagnosis of disease and identification of disease agents in individuals, specified populations, and the environment for Virginia’s public and private laboratories, health departments, state agencies, hospitals, and physicians.

Impact of Actions: Work may have a moderate impact on the accuracy and timeliness of routine tests and on the accuracy of testing documentation and information reported to laboratory service users. Inaccurate and/or late test results can lead to misdiagnosis of symptoms, inappropriate treatment, re-testing of specimens, and environmental health hazards (unidentified contamination of foods, water, and milk).

Personal Contacts: Positions have frequent internal and external contact with local, state and federal agencies, hospitals, physicians, veterinarians, private clinics, and private individuals to report routine results. Generally does not interpret results, but may explain test limits and request additional specimens.

Knowledge: Working knowledge of the theory and application of microbiologic methods and instrumentation related to field of assignment.

Skills: None identified for this class.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to conduct routine analyses; record and interpret normal results; operate microbiology laboratory equipment; and communicate with state agencies, public and private laboratories, hospitals and clinics, and physicians.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: None.

Education or Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent, supplemented by college-level course work in microbiology or a related scientific field.

Level and Type of Experience: None required for entrance into this class.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was revised in January 1989 as part of the Classification Review/Specification Update Program.