Newborn Screening Microbiologist (Microbiologist 2)
State of OregonInitial Posting Date:
01/12/2026Application Deadline:
01/26/2026Agency:
Oregon Health AuthoritySalary Range:
$4,833 - $7,407Position Type:
EmployeePosition Title:
Newborn Screening Microbiologist (Microbiologist 2)Job Description:
*Note: Effective Feb. 1, 2026, the compensation plan for this position will be increased to reflect a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) of 2.5%. The salary listed in this posting does not reflect the COLA.
Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today! - Newborn Screening Microbiologist (Microbiologist 2)
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Public Health Division (PHD), Oregon State Public Health Laboratory (OPSHL) in Hillsboro, Oregon has a career opportunity for a Newborn Screening Microbiologist to perform testing for the Newborn Screening Program. The Oregon Health Authority has the statutory responsibility for screening all infants born in the state for selected congenital conditions.
As the Newborn Screening Microbiologist, you will be involved in the daily testing and reporting processes in the laboratory, performing a variety of tests on dried blood spot specimens collected from newborns. In this role, you will follow established laboratory policies and procedures to assure timely and appropriate identification of presumptive positive newborn screening samples to optimize the early diagnosis and treatment for affected children.
The Oregon State Public Health Laboratory (OSPHL) has been actively protecting the public's health since 1903 by supporting state and local infectious disease control efforts, preventing metabolic disorders detectable at birth, and assuring the quality of testing in clinical and environmental laboratories. Click here for more information.
Work Schedule: The work schedule for this position is Tuesday through Saturday.
For a full review of the position description, please click here.
If this opportunity aligns with your strengths, background, and commitment to fostering inclusivity, we encourage you to apply! At the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), we value diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to help us build a stronger, more equitable future for all.
What We Are Looking For
Minimum Qualifications: These qualifications must be visible in your application for consideration.
A bachelor's degree in public health, chemical, physical, or biological science or a degree in medical technology from an accredited institution AND one (1) year of pertinent laboratory training and/or experience in high complexity testing within the specialty of clinical chemistry or microbiology. OR
A master's degree in public health, chemical, physical, or biological science or a degree in medical technology from an accredited institution.
Desired Attributes: The following are skills and lived experiences that we have identified as key to success in this role at OHA. These are the attributes we are looking for in our top candidate. If you possess any of these, please let us know in your application.
Experience working in a clinical laboratory.
Experience performing newborn screening testing.
Experience performing clinical chemistry and molecular testing.
Knowledge of newborn screening practice standards, clinical correlation and interpretation of laboratory results, and patient care.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Advanced knowledge to analyze, interpret, and make independent decisions.
Ability to set priorities and perform multiple tasks at one time.
Strong interpersonal skills for effectively communicating and collaborating with colleagues and professionals of varying levels within the laboratory setting.
Under federal law, the incumbent must meet personnel requirements for performing high complexity testing as defined by 42 CFR 493, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP).
Application Guidance
How to Apply: Submission Requirements - At the time of application, ensure the work history in your applicant profile is up to date and attach a current copy of your resume (required), cover letter (required).
External Candidates: Visit the State of Oregon job opportunities webpage to submit your application. Be sure to follow all application submission requirements.
Internal Candidates: Current State of Oregon employees must apply through their employee Workday login. Be sure to follow all application submission requirements.
After You Apply:
Before the job announcement closes, log in to your Workday account to check for pending tasks under “My Applications” and complete them.
Remember to check your email (including your junk folder) and Workday inbox for updates on your application.
We value our veterans! To ensure the security of your information, kindly follow the instructions for how to submit your Veteran documents for preference found here. Please do not attach your Veterans’ preference documentation in the Resume/CV field of your application.
Reminders:
Your candidate profile and application materials are great opportunities to showcase your interest in the position and highlight your skills and experience. Submissions will be screened for consistency and communication skills, including attention to detail, spelling, and grammar. For more tips and guidance, check out What you need to know to get the job!
This announcement is for one (1), full-time, permanent, represented by a union- SEIU Human Services, Microbiologist 2 position based in Hillsboro, Oregon.
This is a 100% in-office position. Please check SECTION 4. WORKING CONDITIONS, of the position description linked above to review more details regarding the details surrounding the working conditions.
Please download and save a copy of this job announcement and linked position description, as it is not available after the application deadline.
Benefits of Joining Our Team
We offer a workplace that balances productivity with enjoyment; promote an atmosphere of mutual respect, dedication, and enthusiasm. You will collaborate with a team of bright individuals to work with and learn from. If you're driven by the passion to do something meaningful that changes lives, the Oregon Health Authority is the place for you. We also offer a competitive benefits package including:
Excellent medical, vision, and dental benefits package for the employee and qualified family members with a very low monthly out-of-pocket cost.
Optional life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, deferred compensation savings program, and flexible spending accounts for health care and childcare expenses.
Employee benefits include 11 paid holidays, 3 personal business days, 8 hours of monthly sick leave, and vacation accrual starting at 8 hours per month.
Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Membership in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)/Oregon Public Service Retirement Plan (OPSRP).
Training opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon.
Additional Details
Employment is contingent upon a criminal records check and a driving records check that meets OHA criteria at the time of hire and throughout employment.
The information in your application will be used to complete an Equal Pay Analysis to determine salary placement upon hire. Visit the Department of Administrative Services Equal Pay Analysis Webpage for more information.
The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect the additional 6.95%. Review the Classification and Compensation page for more details on the classification.
Agency does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete I-9 documentation and confirm authorization to work in the United States. OHA will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. If your employment authorization and documentation is contingent on sponsorship now or in the future, you will not meet Agency employment eligibility standards.
Helpful Links & Resources
How to Set Job Alerts | Workday Applicant FAQ | Oregon Health Authority | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Veterans Resources
The Oregon Health Authority is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer, committed to fair employment practices and pay equity for all employees. We do not discriminate based on any protected class—including race, sex, veteran status, disability, age, color, religion, national origin, marital status, or sexual orientation—and we do not screen applicants based on current or past compensation. Salary is determined through a fair review of your education, experience, and training as it relates to the position.
OHA is an anti-racist organization working to eliminate health inequities and dismantle structural barriers that impact underserved communities. Join us in advancing our Strategic Plan and building a more equitable Oregon.