Wastewater Laboratorian

Wastewater Laboratorian

Our client at The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is seeking a Wastewater Laboratorian to support critical public health surveillance efforts at the Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory (HETL) in Augusta, Maine.

In this role, you will perform viral pathogen testing on wastewater samples using advanced molecular diagnostic technologies, including the ThermoFisher KingFisher Flex extraction platform and the Qiagen QIAcuity digital PCR system. Your work will directly contribute to public health monitoring and disease detection initiatives across the state. This work is conducted in Biosafety Level 2 and Biosafety Level 3 laboratory environments.

This position must meet the requirements of the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) 42 CFR & 493.1489 Standard; Testing personnel qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform DNA and RNA extraction from wastewater samples.
• Conduct digital droplet PCR testing and analysis.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation, including:
  • Thermo Fisher KingFisher Flex Extraction Platform
  • Qiagen QIAcuity Digital PCR System
• Validate and support wastewater testing protocols.
• Accession and process incoming samples.
• Review and manage laboratory data and metadata.
• Assist with biological and chemical waste management procedures.
• Monitor and maintain laboratory inventory and supplies.
• Follow established scientific protocols and quality assurance standards.
• Maintain compliance with CLIA regulations and laboratory safety requirements.

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates must possess a combination of education, training, and experience totaling at least four (4) years that demonstrates knowledge of laboratory science, medical technology, environmental technology, analytical chemistry, laboratory equipment, testing procedures, and laboratory techniques.

Required Knowledge and Experience

• Experience with PCR and real-time PCR methodologies.
• Experience with nucleic acid extraction techniques.
• Ability to meet Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) testing personnel requirements under 42 CFR § 493.1489.
• Ability to independently follow scientific protocols and procedures.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information professionally.
• Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratory environment.
• Experience with molecular diagnostics, environmental testing, or public health laboratory operations.
• Experience performing digital droplet PCR (ddPCR).

Work Schedule

• Monday through Friday
• 40 hours per week
• Typical schedules include:
  • 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  • 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• No on-call responsibilities

Work Environment

• On-site position located in Augusta, Maine.
• Remote work is not available.
• No travel required.
• Work is performed in Biosafety Level 2 and Biosafety Level 3 laboratory settings using appropriate safety protocols and personal protective equipment.

Benefits

At SSO, we invest in your health, financial security, and professional growth. Benefits include:

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• 401(k) with discretionary employer match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Flexible spending accounts
• Additional employee perks