Water Microbiology - Summer Intern
Internship Title: Water Microbiology - Summer Intern
Office/Program Area: ISDH Laboratories
Job Description/Responsibilities:
The intern will participate in performing a range of environmental & drinking water microbiological examinations. Responsibilities will include performing analysis on a wide range of water types for the detection of total coliform, E. coli, heterotrophic bacteria and other organisms. Responsibilities will include documentation of quality control and quality assurance associated with these assays in compliance with applicable EPA and FDA regulations.
Representative duties/responsibilities include:
- Conduct examination of environmental & drinking water microbiological samples;
- Maintain laboratory record system of submitted samples;
- Evaluate, interpret, and validate laboratory results and report findings;
- Conduct quality control checks on laboratory methods, materials, and equipment; and
- Maintain all required safety standards
Qualifications:
- Projected dates: 5/11/21 to 8/26/21
- Commitment is 22.5 hours per week Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:15 am - 4:45 pm.
- Regular, predictable attendance is required.
- Knowledge of the principles, theories and practices of microbiology and related sub-specialty
- Knowledge of and ability to use a full range of standard technical equipment and complex scientific apparatus
- Knowledge of laboratory safety practices and principles
- Knowledge of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies concerning the program area (i.e. EPA regulations)
- Ability to effectively communicate technical information both verbally and in writing and maintain productive working relationships
- Ability to satisfactorily participate in proficiency testing programs
- Ability to compile, analyzes, evaluate, and prepare laboratory reports.
Essential Functions/Working Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those a teammate encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- The intern operates in a microbiology laboratory. The role routinely uses standard microbiology laboratory equipment and supplies such as a pipettes, shakers, incubators, water baths, growth media, etc.
- The intern will be performing tests on potentially biohazardous specimens. Consequently, safety standards are of primary importance. This position will be required to use all appropriate personal protective equipment in the designated laboratory area.
- The intern may work independently. Technical instruction and competency review are provided.
- Reports are reviewed for technical accuracy; however, tasks may be performed independently. Errors in work could adversely affect the health, safety and well-being of the incumbent, coworkers, and endanger the health of entire communities on a public water supply.
- The intern must be able to stand for an extended period of time to open water test kits and perform analyses.
- The intern must be able to safely use box cutters to open samples and supply packaging.
- The intern may be required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, or crouch as needed.
- To open sample packages and operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement and fine coordination including use of a computer keyboard; and to verbally communicate to exchange information
- The intern must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or team move up to 40 pounds.
- Work is performed primarily in a laboratory setting with frequent interruptions and distractions.
- The intern may be exposed to odors or airborne particles associated with work in a laboratory setting.
- The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.