About UMass Amherst
The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued—and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world.
Job Summary
The Bacteriologist I contributes to the day-to-day functions for the IALS Clinical Testing Center and the Flow Cytometry Core Facility. Duties between core laboratories are approximated to be split 50%, but can change based on core director discretion. The Bacteriologist assists with service excellence in clinical and research test performance. Contributes to performing high complexity CLIA laboratory procedures and tests as well as general core laboratory duties using established protocols. Monitors, screens and troubleshoots devices, tests and procedures, and recognizes anomalies. Is fully proficient in the use of all equipment and procedures for assigned areas.
Essential Functions
- Evaluates specimens for testing, utilizes appropriate criteria and upholds established performance standards. Applies established criteria for testing, and analysis of entire process from preparation, conducting test, functioning of devices and procedures to ensure quality test results.
- Performs waived, moderate and/or high complexity laboratory tests, including but not limited to microbiological, serological, immunological, parasitological, urological, hematological, bacteriological and chemical tests and procedures in both clinical and research lab settings.
- Provides formal and on-demand training and/or assistance in proper use of core facility instruments and in the use of analysis software as needed, including the provision of training to student workers or interns as applicable.
- Performs routine quality control, quality assurance, and equipment calibration testing of systems and lab equipment.
- Maintains, troubleshoots and performs day-to-day work on laboratory equipment in the IALS Clinical Testing Center and Flow Cytometry cores to keep it in the best possible order. Creates and optimizes procedures and SOP manuals and routine maintenance of general laboratory equipment.
- Maintains and develops customer relations.
- Prepares daily QC reports and coordinates with the necessary core directors.
- Communicates with core directors and customers for sample processing when necessary.
- Performs and maintains inventory and communicates with service engineers.
- Maintains logs of service requests and utilization. Consults with supervisors and other personnel as appropriate on test results, requirements and testing protocols.
- Maintains appropriate records for specimens, tests and data. Utilizes computer systems in reporting and documenting analysis.
- Participates in required competency assessment and proficiency testing activities. Follows established procedures to perform all lab tests to obtain acceptable data.
- Ensures all work areas are clean, safe and organized.
- Complies with established policies, procedures and objectives.
- Contributes to a collaborative, team relationship with peers and colleagues to help foster a positive work environment.
Other Functions
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
- Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Technology, Chemistry, Biological Science or an equivalent related science.
- Minimum of one (1) year clinical experience performing high complexity human sample testing in a clinical laboratory.
- Current with ongoing education requirements for continuous certification.
- Knowledge of the principles and practices, including safety practices, of bacteriology and microbiology.
- Knowledge of the types and uses of equipment, apparatus and materials used in a bacteriological laboratory.
- Requires the ability to endure periods of shifting workloads.
- Ability to work independently under deadlines with minimal guidance and to work as a team member.
- Requires the ability to accept constructive feedback and initiate appropriate actions to correct situations.
- Requires the ability to use computer-based systems to record, track, review, and interpret test results.
- Working knowledge of specimen collection, preparation, and test requirements and factors affecting test interpretation.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.
- Excellent organizational skills, highly motivated and able to learn quickly.
- Working knowledge of computer systems such as Microsoft Windows, and Microsoft Office programs.
Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
- Certified Medical Technologist or Medical Technician, ASCP or equivalent is preferred.
- Experience in both research and clinical lab techniques and procedures.
- Experience in flow cytometry or familiarity with flow-based assays.
Physical Demands/Working Conditions
- Typical laboratory environment.
- Moderate lifting up to 35 pounds, pushing/pulling, repetitive movement, standing, bending, reaching, sitting, and twisting.
Additional Details
Flexibility to work longer hours in order to meet deadlines or in case of troubleshooting, or other pressing issues is a working condition of this position.
Work Schedule
- Monday through Friday; 37.5 hours per week.
- Flexibility to work longer hours in order to meet deadlines, troubleshooting, or other pressing issues is a working condition of this position.
Salary Information
USA / MTA Grade 17.
Classified Step Scale
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please submit cover letter, resume, and names and contact information for three professional references. Applications will be accepted until position is filled.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.