Chief, Public Health Lab-08431502

To plan, organize, and direct the activities of a Public Health Laboratory; to direct the training of laboratory personnel; and to perform related work as required.

This is a one-position class found in the Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA), Public Health Services. The Chief, Public Health Laboratory, is the second level supervisor responsible for managing public health laboratory personnel who perform laboratory activities for the purpose of preventing infectious disease and assessing public health.

The examples of functions listed in the class specification are representative but not necessarily exhaustive or descriptive of any one position in the class. Management is not precluded from assigning other related functions not listed herein if such duties are a logical assignment for the position.

Essential Functions:

1. Plans, organizes, coordinates, and directs the work of laboratory personnel.

2. Directs training and instruction in new procedures and techniques involved in public health/clinical laboratory work performance.

3. Directs microbiological, chemical, and hematological examinations to assist in the detection, definition, prevention, and control of diseases.

4. Keeps informed of new methods in laboratory service and consults with others concerning such techniques.

5. Develops contracts for evaluating field services and makes recommendations regarding services.

Education, training, and/or experience that demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills and abilities listed above. An example of qualifying education/experience is a doctorate degree in Microbiology, Immunology, Virology, Public Health, or a related biological science with a laboratory specialty from an accredited college or university AND at least five years of experience in Public Health Microbiology including at least two years as a laboratory director or assistant director responsible for a large staff in a setting similar to the County of San Diego. The above experience must have been obtained within the last ten years.

License

A valid California class C driver’s license, which must be maintained throughout employment in this class, is required at time of appointment, or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel. Employees in this class may be required to use their own vehicle.

Certification/Registration

Applicants must possess a valid permanent Public Health Microbiologist certificate and a permanent clinical laboratory technologist license, both issued by the State of California, or an equivalent acceptable to the California Department of Health Services. In addition, the applicant must be registered as a Public Health Microbiologist Specialist with the American Society for Microbiology.

Working Conditions

Exposure to infectious, pathogenic organisms and hazardous chemicals. Certain immunizations are required and employees must be monitored to ensure employee health. May be subject to recall after hours.

Background Investigation

Must have a reputation for honesty and trustworthiness. Misdemeanor and/or felony convictions may be disqualifying depending on type, number, severity, and recency. Prior to appointment, candidates will be subject to a background investigation.

Evaluation

Applicants will be placed on the employment list based on scores received from their application and supplemental application.