Research and Quality Scientist - Research Scientist 2

Job Details Working Title: Research and Quality Scientist Job Class: Research Scientist 2 Agency: Health Department Job ID: 78976 Location: St. Paul Telework Eligible: No Full/Part Time: Full-Time Regular/Temporary: Unlimited Who May Apply: Open to all bidders of MDH and all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bidders will be accepted through 11/20/20224. Date Posted: 11/14/2024 Closing Date: 11/28/2024 Hiring Agency: Minnesota Department of Health Division/Unit: Public Health Lab / PHL IDL Staff Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift / 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Days of Work: Monday - Friday (1 Saturday per month) Travel Required: No Salary Range: $31.92 - $47.05 / hourly; $66,648 - $98,240 / annually Classified Status: Classified Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : Yes The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities. Job Summary Join the mission-driven team at the Public Health Laboratory (PHL) and promote and protect the health of all Minnesotans. This Research Scientist 2 position will lead quality and process improvement initiatives in the laboratory, including performing internal audits, non-conformance investigations, and monitory quality indicators and metrics. This position will also research, develop, validate, verify and implement molecular methods to detect and characterize pathogens of clinical significance. The position conducts complex testing of clinical specimens, conducts and guides technical, workflow and quality improvement activities, and trains staff on new assays and technique. This position may require working one Saturday per month in exchange for a day off during the week. This position also requires working some holidays. All positions within the MDH Public Health Lab will work to cultivate an inclusive work environment for all, with respect to diversity and equity. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed below and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held . Three (3) years of scientific research experience or professional laboratory experience with molecular testing. Minimum Qualifications to be assessed during interview: Ability to contribute to research plans for grant applications and progress reports. Experience with validation and verification of new tests and instruments. The chosen candidate must have successfully completed a minimum of 60 semester/90 quarter college credits that includes either: 1) 24 semester/36 quarter credits in medical laboratory technology; or 2) 24 semester/36 quarter credits of science courses that includes six semester/nine quarter credits in chemistry; six semester/nine quarter credits in biology; and twelve semester/eighteen quarter hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination. Applicants will be asked to provide evidence of course completion at time of interview. Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, medical technology, molecular biology, genetics and cell biology, or a related science may substitute for one year of experience; A Masters may substitute for 18 months; A PhD may substitute for 2 years of experience. Preferred Qualifications Experience working in a public health laboratory. Experience with research and development in a clinical or research lab. Clear and effective written and verbal communication. Good judgment, integrity, diplomacy Critical thinking, and problem solving. Documented experience leading quality initiatives. Ability to prioritize multiple tasks. Quality control interpretation and calculating statistics such as false positive rate, positive predictive value, etc. Operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of complex laboratory instruments. Physical Requirements Occasional transportation of up to 30 pounds. Additional Requirements This position requires successful completion of a background check. CLIA Education Requirements are a minimum of 60 semester/90 quarter college credits that includes either: 1) 24 semester/36 quarter credits in medical laboratory technology; or 2) 24 semester/36 quarter credits of science courses that includes six semester/nine quarter credits in chemistry; six semester/nine quarter credits in biology; and twelve semester/eighteen quarter hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination. Applicants will be asked to provide evidence of course completion at time of interview. Application Details How to Apply Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careersstate.mn.us . For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers . Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Elizabeth Huckins at elizabeth.huckinsstate.mn.us or 651-201-5609 . To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Elizabeth Huckins at elizabeth.huckinsstate.mn.us . If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation for an interview, you may contact the Department of Health ADA Coordinator at health.hr.adastate.mn.us . About Health Department Come work for one of the best public health systems in the nation and you will contribute to our mission to protect, maintain and improve the health of all Minnesotans. We are working hard to achieve our vision for health equity in Minnesota, where all communities are thriving and all people have what they need to be healthy . Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? A sense of purpose in their work Connection with their coworkers and communities Opportunities for personal and professional growth Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well. Your benefits may include: Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans Fertility care, including IVF Diabetes care Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years) Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Support to help you reach your career goals: Training, classes, and professional development Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov ) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support: A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law. APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careersstate.mn.us and let us know the support you need.