Wastewater Surveillance Lab Specialist

Agency Dept of Health and Human Services Division Public Health Job Classification Title Laboratory Specialist (NS) Position Number 65036692 Grade MH16 About Us The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is one of the largest, most complex agencies in the state, and has approximately 17,000 employees. It is responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all North Carolinians, providing human service needs for special populations including individuals who are deaf, blind, developmentally disabled, and mentally ill, and helping poor North Carolinians achieve economic independence. Description of Work The Wastewater Surveillance Lab Specialist supports the Wastewater Surveillance/Environmental Sciences Unit by performing advanced molecular testing to detect and quantify viral agents of public health significance in wastewater. The position independently conducts digital PCR, sequencing, and whole‑genome sequencing to produce accurate analytical results that inform surveillance and outbreak investigations. Work includes validating and verifying new molecular assays, preparing scientific documentation, and implementing newly developed testing procedures. The role also contributes to quality assurance activities and provides technical training to laboratory personnel. The position is based in Wake County and supports weekday operations within the Environmental Sciences Unit. Key Duties Include: - Perform analytical testing using digital PCR, Sanger sequencing, and whole‑genome sequencing to detect and characterize viral pathogens in wastewater. - Process wastewater samples and conduct routine surveillance testing to support outbreak investigations. - Utilize molecular tools to identify, group, type, and subtype viral and bacterial pathogens. - Follow established standard operating procedures, quality assurance policies, and safety requirements during molecular testing. - Implement new molecular assays and monitor associated quality control and quality assurance documentation. - Carry out routine preventative maintenance on laboratory instruments to ensure reliable operation. - Conduct validations and verifications of molecular methods and prepare supporting scientific documentation. - Draft and update laboratory procedures, including SOPs, validation reports, and related technical documents. - Deliver technical training to laboratory personnel on newly implemented molecular tests. - Compile analytical data, prepare validation and verification reports, interpret findings, and present results to laboratory leadership. - Provide laboratory support during public health emergencies, including additional hours when required. Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences Salary Grade Range: $62,044.00 - $102,371.00 Recruitment Range: $62,044.00 - $66,000.00 Candidates now meet the minimum qualifications of a position if they meet the minimum education and experience listed on the vacancy announcement.  The Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)/ Management Preferences are not required. Applicants who possess the following skills are preferred:   Expert‑level molecular testing proficiency demonstrated through independent characterization and quantification of viral DNA and RNA using digital PCR, Sanger sequencing, and whole‑genome sequencing. Advanced technical skill in validating and verifying molecular test methods demonstrated through developing scientific documentation and interpreting study outcomes with accuracy. Strong quality assurance competency demonstrated through monitoring control procedures, implementing new molecular assays, and completing routine maintenance on laboratory instruments. Intermediate proficiency in drafting laboratory documents demonstrated through preparing SOPs, method validation reports, and updates that support molecular testing operations. Proven training skill demonstrated through delivering technical instruction to laboratory personnel and supporting implementation of new molecular testing workflows. The Posting Will Close At 11:59 P.M. The Night Before The End Date This Position Is 100% Federally Funded Employees in this position must be capable of meeting the Federal CLIA ’88 personnel requirements of Testing Personnel in a laboratory performing high complexity testing. Applicants must attach copies of their transcript(s) and/or certification(s) to be considered for the position  The Position Is Time-Limited, Concluding On July 31, 2029 - Extension Subject To Funding About the NC Division of Public Health (DPH): The NC Division of Public Health works to promote and contribute to the highest possible level of health for the people of North Carolina. Our entire statewide system of public health has dedicated professionals who carry out our mission every day through a wide range of essential and activities touching the lives of everyone in our state. About the Wastewater Surveillance Unit: The Wastewater Surveillance Unit analyzes wastewater samples collected weekly from treatment plants across North Carolina to detect virus levels using molecular diagnostics, including sequencing. The unit monitors SARS‑CoV‑2, RSV, and Flu A and B by measuring viral particles shed in stool, allowing community‑level trends to be identified. These measurements show whether virus levels are increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time, giving NCDHHS an accurate picture of respiratory illness activity and informing public health response. The unit is also working to expand wastewater testing to additional viral surveillance efforts. Compensation and Benefits:   The State of North Carolina offers excellent comprehensive benefits. Employees can participate in health insurance options, standard and supplemental retirement plans, and the NCFlex program (numerous high-quality, low-cost benefits on a pre-tax basis). Employees also receive paid vacation, sick, and