Job Description

Salary : $50,980.80 - $63,731.20 Annually
Location : Laredo, TX
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: A266047-7
Department: Health (29/60/61/62/64/65/80)
Division: 6047 Public Health Workforce Grant
Opening Date: 02/02/2026
Closing Date: Continuous

This position is grant funded. Therefore, it is solely dependent of availability of grant funds
Performs advances laboratory work, under the direction of the laboratory manager; responsible for receiving and analyzing laboratory specimens and reporting results in a timely manner in accordance to polices and procedures. Works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement. Develops and provides information on Laboratory recommendations, updates, regulations, policies, and procedures, such as those aligned with CDC, CLIA, Joint Commission and/or CAP. Participates as a member of the Public Health Response Team (PHRT); shall respond to all bio-terrorism events or large disease outbreaks and other Public Health emergencies. Participates in all activities related to laboratory information system. Will be required to be "on-call" as assigned or during an event.
Essential Functions/ Job Competencies/ Physical Requirements
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

The intent of this is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

• Conduct laboratory services in the areas of hematology, serology/urinalysis, chemistry and/or microbiology, and perform generalist proficiency in all areas of the laboratory.
• Oversees instrument validation, quality control, proficiency testing, and equipment operations.
• Maintain parts, reagents and supplies for all laboratory operations.
• Participates in public health projects related to Laboratory activities
• Develops and provides information on Laboratory recommendations, updates, regulations, policies, and procedures, such as those aligned with CDC, CLIA, Joint Commission and/or CAP.
• Performs technical procedures proficiently in accordance with laboratory standards.
• Performs maintenance, troubleshooting, and calibration procedures related to each test performed
• Analyzes Laboratory operations, review reports, makes recommendations, and provides justifications when needed to improve Laboratory program outcomes
• Reports critical results to appropriate personnel and to appropriate health officials
• Assists in developing procedures for processing specimens to ensure the accuracy of the results, proper handling of specimens, an disposal of hazardous materials
• Supports Laboratory information system on test build, validation, troubleshooting, and supporting of deliverables, attending LIS meetings and support when required
• Supports epidemiological disease investigations through laboratory operations
• Supports laboratory specimen operations for testing, packaging, handling, and/or shipping.
• Performs all other Laboratory related duties as assigned.
• Processes SARS-CoV-2 samples for quantitative RT-PCR analysis and qualitative SARS-CoV-2 analysis.
• Supports the wastewater surveillance program by processing, or shipping wastewater samples.
• Performs instrument maintenance procedures as required.
• Maintains and performs inventory.
• Utilizes PCR software and data analysis software to perform quantitative RT-PCR.
• Maintains cleanliness and proper working order of the BSL-3 laboratory to ensure testing is performed in a sterile and regulated environment.
• Performs drinking and wastewater bacteriology tests under the supervision of certified MTs.
• Will be required to drive a City vehicle for City business use.
• Performs related work as required.

COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF JOB DUTIES

Knowledge of:

• Knowledge of properly packaging and shipping laboratory specimens (including wastewater samples).
• Knowledge of modern office procedures and methods including computers and applicable software.
• Knowledge of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Knowledge of workflow organization and development.
• Knowledge of protocol development.
• Knowledge of aseptic technique.
• Knowledge of PCR theory.
• Knowledge of BSL-3 safety protocols and regulations.
• Knowledge of biological hazards and disposal regulations.
• Knowledge of microbiological analytical techniques.

Skills and Abilities:

• Skill in organization and time management.
• Skill in performing a variety of duties, often changing from one task to another of a different nature.
• Skill in troubleshooting variables.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing in the English and Spanish language.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to meet schedules and deadlines of the work.
• Ability to maintain the confidentiality of information and professional boundaries.
• Ability to operate PCR instruments.
• Ability to catalog and document.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain good planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to take and follow directions from supervisor.
• Ability to give directions to and gain compliance from assigned staff.
• Ability to perform strenuous work and routine work.
• Ability to maintain a valid Texas Driver License and a good driving record.
• Ability to project a positive and professional image of the City of Laredo.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing in the English language and orally in the Spanish language.
• Ability to comply with all City of Laredo's policies and procedures.
• Ability to maintain good health and physical condition sufficient to permit the full performance of the duties of this position.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical Effort Requirements
Position will have the following exposures

• Office or similar indoor environment, relatively free from unpleasant environmental conditions or hazards.
• Occasional exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and/or hazards. Occasional outside work.
• Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally, a negligible amount of force frequently, and/or constantly having to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
• Exerting up to 35 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly having to move objects.

Work Environment Locations
Position will require the employee to work in the following types of work environments

Never

• Street environment (near moving traffic)
• Construction site
• Vehicles
• Warehouse environment
• Other: ______

Seldom

• Outdoor environment

Sometimes

• Confined space

Often

• Office or similar indoor environment

Exposures
Position will require the employee to be exposed to the following environmental elements

Never

• Extreme cold (below 32 degrees)
• Extreme heat (above 100 degrees)
• Moving mechanical parts

Seldom

• Individuals who are hostile or irate
• Individuals with known violent backgrounds
• Loud noises (85+ decibels such as heavy trucks, jack hammers, construction)

Frequently

• Fumes or airborne particles

Often

• Communicable diseases
• Toxic or caustic chemicals or substances

Travel
Position will require the employee to travel

Never

• International travel

Seldom

• Local travel
• Regional travel
• National travel

Minimum Qualifications
Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited* college or university in Clinical Laboratory Science, Environmental Sciences, Public Health, Microbiology, Medical Technology, Chemistry, or related health field
• At least one (1) year of experience in microbiology, medical technology, clinical laboratory science, or similar related field experience.

*Council of Higher Education Accreditation (C.H.E.A.)
Proof of TB Test/Screening will be required to be presented prior to employment

Valid Licenses and Certifications
Required Licenses or Certifications

• Valid Texas Driver License. If applicant holds an out-of-state license, a State of Texas Driver License must be obtained within 6 months of employment.

**The following Licenses and Certifications that must be obtained after employment. Continued employment is contingent on successfully obtaining required certification(s) and/or license(s) within the specified period of time indicated above from time of hire.
**Medical Laboratory Technologist Certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathologist (ASCP) or equivalent must be obtained within 12 months of employment
As part of the minimum requirements for all positions with the City of Laredo, a thorough background check and certified school transcripts will be required from all applicants who are offered employment.

Effective February 24, 1997, all selected applicants are required to undergo a drug and alcohol test prior to employment

Effective January 7, 2008, all persons in safety-sensitive functions/positions, as per City of Laredo Drug and Alcohol Policy definition shall be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.

A person with a disability who needs a reasonable accommodation related to a selection process is requested to contact the Human Resources Department at [click to reveal phone number](956) 791-7480 , two days prior to the scheduled interview and/or test if applicable.
City of Laredo is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled and Veteran Employer. We welcome differences in the form of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, geography, socioeconomic status, age, politics, religion, philosophy, sexual orientation, or gender identity. All applicants who share this goal are encouraged to apply. Must be able to function in a principle-based organization that has a culture built on character and core values.
The City of Laredo provides a benefit compensation package that includes the following for all Full-time regular employees:

• 10 days of paid vacation per year
• 6 1/2 days sick leave per year
• Pension plan
• 16 paid Holidays
• Paid health *
• Dental plan *
• Life insurance *

*30 day waiting period

For a full description of our benefits, please visit our website at: under Employee Benefits
01

Are you a current regular full-time or part-time City of Laredo employee?

• I am a full-time City of Laredo employee
• I am a part-time City of Laredo
• I am not a full-time or part-time City of Laredo employee

02

What is your highest level of education?

• Some High School
• High School Diploma or G.E.D. recognized by the Texas Education Agency or a regional accrediting agency
• 30 completed college hours (credits) from an accredited college or university
• 60 completed college hours (credits) from an accredited college or university
• Associate's Degree from an accredited college or university
• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university
• Master's Degree from an accredited college or university
• PhD from an accredited college or university
• Juris Doctor from an accredited college or university
• Other Post Graduate Degree from an accredited college or university
• None of the above

03

If you hold an Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's PhD, Juris Doctor, or Post Graduate Degree, please provide your major/minor:
04

Do you have one (1) year experience in microbiology, medical technology, clinical laboratory science, or similar related field experience?

• Yes
• No

05

From the experience you provided on your application, list the name of the agencies you experienced microbiology, medical technology, clinical laboratory science, or similar related field experience: Note: Do not answer this question with "See Resume" or "See Application". Doing so will automatically disqualify your application from the process.
06

Are you aware and understand that the position you are applying for is a grant funded position that is solely dependent on available funds?

• Yes
• No

07

Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application. Failure to complete all sections of your application, including the "Driver License", "Education", "Work Experience", "Certifications and Licenses" (if applicable), and "Agency-Wide Questions" will result in your application not being processed. Please complete the City's application to include all current and previous work history, relevant education, and any license(s)/certification information that may be required. A resume will not be accepted or reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position. Any misrepresentation will result in your disqualification for employment consideration.

• I have read and understand the above information
• I have read and do not understand the above information. I will contact the Human Resources Department for further explanation at (956) 791-7480.

Required Question

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