Salary : $83,909.02 - $88,400.00 Annually
Location : 2250 Holcombe Blvd
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 39477
Department: Houston Health Department
Opening Date: 09/11/2026
Closing Date: 9/18/2026 11:59 PM Central

POSITION OVERVIEW

Applications Accepted from: All Persons Interested

Division: Disease Prevention & ControlSection: LaboratoryLocation: 2250 Holcombe BlvdWork days & Hours: M - F, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.* (*Subject to change)DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The Houston Health Department is seeking a qualified candidate for the position of a Microbiologist IV to perform the following duties:
The Microbiologist IV position plays a critical role in advancing public health surveillance by leading complex microbiological and molecular based testing, particularly in mycobacterium-based epidemiology.

Job Responsibilities:
• Implements protocols to increase capacity for the molecular detection and confirmation of drug-resistant mycobacterium organisms and perform validation.
• Performs whole genome sequencing and uploading of sequence data to National Surveillance System for data integration and analysis.
• Works with appropriate stakeholders and epidemiology partners to ensure proper communication and reporting of sequence data.
• Assures quality control standards are met.
• Train staff for sustainability once grant ends.

WORKING CONDITIONS
This position is physically comfortable; the individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc. There are no major sources of discomfort in a normal office environment.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Biology, Bacteriology, Microbiology or a closely related field.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTSFour (4) years of experience in laboratory work dealing with bacteriology, serology or virology are required.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
None.
PREFERENCES

**Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.**

Preferences will be given to applicants who have experience in molecular diagnostic techniques (sequencing preferred) with a minimum of 2 years of experience working in a molecular laboratory.
GENERAL INFORMATION

SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED
Application review and/or interview. However, the Department may administer a skill assessment evaluation.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION Yes
If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

Pay Grade 23
SALARY INFORMATION
GRANT FUND POSITION
Grants & Special funded positions are dependent upon continued available funds. If funding is no longer available, employee may be laid off or transferred. Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

APPLICATION PROCEDURESOnly online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov.

To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call 832-393-4888.

If you need special services or accommodations, call (832-393-4888). (TTY 7-1-1)

If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.

Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.

All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.

The city offers a competitive benefits program, including competitively priced health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan. Benefits include:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Wellness
• Supplemental Insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability
• Retirement pension
• 457 deferred compensation plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• 10 days of vacation each year
• 13 city holidays, plus one floating holiday
• Compensable Sick Leave
• Personal Leave
• Flexible schedules
• Hybrid-Telework for eligible positions
• Professional development opportunities
• Transportation/parking plan
• Section 125 pretax deductions
• Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
• Paid Prenatal, Parental and Infant Wellness Leaves
• Healthcare Flexible Spending Account

For plan details, visit http://www.houstontx.gov/hr/benefits.html
01

Are you a veteran who served on active duty in the Armed Forces (United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard) for more than 90 consecutive days and received either an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions?

• Yes
• No

02

Please indicate your highest level of education:

• High School Diploma
• Associate's Degree
• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Bacteriology, Microbiology or a closely related field
• Bachelor's Degree in another field of study
• Master's Degree or beyond in Biology, Bacteriology, Microbiology or a closely related field.
• Master's Degree or beyond in another field of study

03

How many years of experience in a laboratory performing clinical diagnostic tests on clinical samples do you possess?

• No Experience
• Less than 2 years
• 2 years to less than 3 years
• 3 years to less than 4 years
• 4 years to less than 5 years
• 5 years or more

04

Do you have experience in performing and validation/verifying PCR and other molecular tests?

• Yes
• No

05

Do you have experience in performing and validation/verifying DNA sequencing and analysis of results?

• Yes
• No

06

Do you have knowledge of regulatory requirements that govern clinical laboratories including both CLIA and CAP accreditation standards?

• Yes
• No

07

Do you have experience writing SOPs, performing instrument maintenance and calibrations of thermocyclers, DNA sequencers, and other laboratory equipment?

• Yes
• No

Required Question