BACTERIOLOGIST 2211

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

Under direct supervision, an employee in this class determines the extent of bacterial contamination in potable water, lakes, marine waters, beaches, industrial waste and sewage samples. The incumbent isolates, cultures and identifies significant microorganisms that are deleterious to public health. The incumbent trains laboratory technicians in preparing media, staining, plating and performing routine tests and supervises the work performed for adherence to standard procedures. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Tests drinking water, beach and pool water to ensure the degree of purity necessary for human consumption or for swimming;

Tests industrial wastewater for acceptable purification treatment to protect the underground water supply;

Tests and evaluates biological waste treatment population, diversity and distribution;

Under direct supervision, performs the quality assurance/quality control procedures that are mandated by the New York State Department of Health - Environmental Laboratory Approved Program (ELAP);

Performs microscopic identification and enumeration of bacteriological plate cultures and subjects them to additional testing as required;

Supervises and instructs laboratory technicians in performing laboratory procedures;

Prepares and submits reports on the results of tests;

May be required to testify in court regarding test results.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Good knowledge of the theory and practices of bacteriology; good knowledge of techniques required for the performance of bacteriologic laboratory tests; good knowledge of the quality assurance/quality control procedures that are required by the New York State Department of Health - Environmental Laboratory Approved Program (ELAP); some knowledge of relevant federal, state and local public health standards regarding potable water, recreational waters, bathing beaches and wastewater effluents; skill in the use of laboratory equipment; skill in laboratory manipulative techniques; ability to make accurate observations; ability to prepare brief records and reports concerning tests made; ability to supervise in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale; ability to perform library research within the scope of assigned work; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

OPEN COMPETITIVE

Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by NY State

with a Bachelor's Degree in Bacteriology, Biochemistry, Biology, Microbiology, or one of the Natural or Medical Sciences which includes at least sixteen (16) credit hours in Biology including Microbiology.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

Possession of a valid New York State driver's license at the time of appointment; appointees must maintain a valid license throughout employment in this title.

R10/20/14

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive