NBS Laboratory Technologist
State of Colorado - Denver, CO
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Salary : $50,724.00 - $71,016.00 Annually Location : Denver Metro, CO Job Type: Full Time Job Number: FAA00822-02/27/26 Department: Department of Public Health & Environment Division: Division of Disease Control and Public Health Response Opening Date: 03/11/2026 Closing Date: 3/19/2026 11:59 PM Mountain FLSA: Determined by Position Type of Announcement: This position is open only to Colorado state residents. Primary Physical Work Address: 8100 Lowry Blvd, Denver, CO 80230 FLSA Status: Non-Exempt; position is eligible for overtime compensation. Department Contact Information: Salary Note: Although the full salary range for this position is provided, appointments are typically made at or near the range minimum. How To Apply: Please submit an online application for this position at Reach out to the Department Contact to apply using a paper application, including any supplemental questions. Failure to submit a complete and timely application may result in the rejection of your application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that application materials are received by the appropriate Human Resources office before the closing date and time listed. Department Information This position is ONLY open to current Colorado state residents.This position is On-Site. The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical conditions related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. Although the full salary range for this position is provided, appointments are typically made at or near the range minimum. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) serves Coloradans by providing high-quality, and cost-effective public health and environmental protection services that promote healthy people in healthy places. Staff members focus on evidence-based best practices in the public health and environmental fields and play a critical role in educating people in Colorado so they can make informed choices. In addition to maintaining and enhancing our core programs, the Department continues to identify and respond to emerging issues affecting Colorado's public and environmental health. Be BOLD.....Make a REAL difference . . . and join us in serving our communities advancing Colorado's health and protecting the places we live, work, learn, and play, to create a healthy and sustainable Colorado where current and future generations thrive. Our mission... is to advance Colorado's health and protect the places we live, work, learn, and play. Our vision... is to create a healthy and sustainable Colorado where current and future generations thrive. In addition to free parking, access to RTD bus lines, Cherry Creek bike path and flexible working arrangements, click the link below to review additional benefits and perks!!! Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, go to: The referral list generated by this position announcement may be used to fill multiple position vacancies and may be extended. Description of Job The Division of Disease Control and Public Health Response (DCPHR) is the department's lead surveillance, planning and response arm for public events including communicable disease outbreaks and epidemics, pandemics, bioterrorism, and other public health and mass casualty events and disasters. The division includes the Office of Emergency Preparedness and Response; State Public Health Laboratory; Health Equity Branch, Communicable Disease Branch; Immunization Branch; Public Health Informatics, Reporting, and Refugee Branch; and Operations Branch. The Division exists to ensure that the Department has the ability to effectively prepare for, monitor, detect, diagnose, investigate, and nimbly respond to all types of conditions, events and disasters that impact the public's health. The Work Unit: The Colorado Newborn Screening Program (CONBSP) within the Colorado State Public Health Lab (CSPHL) exists to comply with state law that all newborns in Colorado are screened for the following conditions: Phenylketonuria, Congenital Hypothyroidism, Hemoglobinopathies, Galactosemia, Cystic Fibrosis, Biotinidase Deficiency, Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia, Amino Acidemias, Organic Acidemias, Fatty Acid Oxidation disorders, Severe Combined Immunodeficiency, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Pompe disease, Mucopolysaccharidosis Type I, X-Linked Adrenoleukodystrophy, Congenital Cytomegalovirus, Guanidinoacetate Methyltransferase Deficiency, and other conditions determined by the Colorado Board of Health; to thus prevent or reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with these diseases. Also, to ensure that families of affected newborns receive proper follow-up and education for these disorders. What you will be doing... This position exists to aid with the pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic components of clinical testing of dried blood spot (DBS) samples within CONBSP. Specific activities include, but are not limited to: 1) receipt and handling of samples, 2) preparation of samples for testing, 3) initial testing of samples, and 4) initial review of testing data. This position aids with general components of clinical human-specimen testing in a CLIA-regulated lab, such as maintaining a safe and organized workspace, as well as help support customer service to ensure that accurate result reports are provided to authorized recipients. Analytical Testing Performs analytical testing to identify newborns at risk for Phenylketonuria, Congenital Hypothyroidism, Hemoglobinopathies, Galactosemia, Cystic Fibrosis, Biotinidase Deficiency, Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia, Amino Acidemias, Organic Acidemias, Fatty Acid Oxidation disorders, Severe Combined Immunodeficiency, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Pompe disease, Mucopolysaccharidosis Type I, X-Linked Adrenoleukodystrophy, Congenital Cytomegalovirus, Guanidinoacetate Methyltransferase Deficiency, and other conditions determined by the Colorado Board of Health. The goal of this testing is to prevent or reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with these diseases. Adheres to all laboratory SOPs and safety requirements. They are proficient and demonstrate documentable competency in the performance of analytical functions for every clinical method in CONBSP, and participate in the lab's proficiency testing and reporting. Performs testing of samples on their assigned bench daily, and maintains all paperwork and QA/QC logs associated with the bench. Expected to maintain competencies for the entire range of assignable duties, while participating in a bench rotation cycle that is expected to involve extended gaps between assignments for benches. Maintaining Instruments and Equipment/General Laboratory Support Operates, calibrates, and maintains equipment used in quantitative and qualitative analysis of specimens. They verify equipment functionality and document maintenance performed. They work with supervisors to report any issues and contact vendors when equipment needs preventative maintenance or repair. Contributes to maintaining inventory of testing reagents and materials for both their specific bench assignment, as well as the overall NBS program. Follows safety protocols and SOPs for setting up, cleaning, decontaminating, and maintaining laboratory equipment and work surfaces. Completes other general lab support as assigned by program supervisors. Pre-Analytical Testing Receives all incoming newborn screening (NBS) samples and adheres to established standard operating procedures (SOPs) for performing quality checks and handling, with limited supervision. Specimens are sorted by type (first, second, or supplemental screen) and checked for demographic completion and sample suitability for testing. Completes routine data entry and traceability tasks, including date stamping and labeling of received samples. Refers possible unsatisfactory specimens to a program scientist or supervisor for further review, if needed. Operates sub-sample distribution instrumentation (punching stations) according to SOP for production plate preparation. Expected to acquire and maintain an understanding of the NBS laboratory information management system Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights Residency Requirement: This posting is only open to residents of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application. Class Code & Classification Description: C8D1XX MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:Education: One of the following requirements: Earned a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degreein a chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institution; or Earned an associate degreein laboratory science or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution; or Have education and training equivalent to : At least 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution that , at a minimum includes either - Twenty-four (24) semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses; or Twenty-four (24) semester hours of science courses that include - Six (6) semester hours of chemistry; Six (6) semester hours of biology; and Twelve (12) semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination; and Have laboratory training that includes: Completion of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by the ABHES or the CAAHEP; or At least 3 months documented laboratory training in each speciality in which the individual performs high complexity testing; or Successful completion of an official U.S. military medical laboratory procedures training course of at least 50 weeks duration and having held the military enlisted occupational specialty of Medical Laboratory Specialist (Laboratory Technician); or An individual that was qualified and serving as a high complexity testing personnel in a CLIA-certified laboratory as of December 28, 2024, and have done so continuously since December 28, 2024; or Be a doctor of medicine, doctor of osteopathy, or doctor of podiatric medicine licensed to practice medicine, osteopathy, or podiatry in the State of Colorado. A copy of your transcripts must be submitted at the time of application. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. Late transcripts will not be accepted. NOTE: Click on the link here How to Apply to submit a complete application that documents your work history giving details of your qualifications, including how your experience aligns with the minimum and preferred qualifications for this position when listing your work history. Preferred Qualifications and Essential Competencies The preferred experience, competencies and abilities are highly desirable for this position and will be considered in selecting the successful candidate: Bachelor's degree Experience performing analytical testing on clinical samples Knowledge of laboratory testing procedures and instrumentation Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance and control practices Familiarity with newborn screening Equipment maintenance skills (performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed) Operation monitoring skills (watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly) Excellent customer service skills Ability to communicate both orally and in writing with a wide range of customers Knowledge of spreadsheet, database and word processing applications Excellent problem solving and troubleshooting skills Excellent planning and organizing skills Excellent analytical skill Operates analytical and top loading balances. Operates and calibrates analytical gravimetric instrumentation and equipment utilizing current method, instrument or equipment standard operating procedures. Conducts instrument and equipment routine calibration and maintenance following the standard operating procedures. Ensures laboratory is properly cleaned and staged for analyses before after the procedures. Maintains required documentation related to sample weighing batches and completes final reporting. Conditions of Employment: Pursuant to CDPHE policy, a background check is required for all positions at CDPHE. You must currently reside and be legally eligible to work in the United States to be appointed to this position, as CDPHE does not sponsor non-residents of the United States. Shift Work Required: Weekend Shift and Holiday Critical Status: Must be available in the event of an emergency, (e.g., bio-terrorist attack, chemical attack, disease outbreak or all hazards) and be required to report to work immediately at the regular or alternate location. During this time, travel restrictions may be in place. Critical Status: Must be available in the event of the activation of the Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) and be required to report to work immediately at the regular or alternate location. During this time, travel restrictions may be in place. Critical Status: Must be available Expected to work and/or remain at their worksite in delayed start, early release, or closure situations. Special Qualification: CLIA regulation educational requirement. Special Conditions of Employment: Color Vision - Staff must be able to distinguish between colors for a colorimetric assay review. Appeal Rights: An applicant who has been removed from an employment list or removed from consideration during the selection process may request a review by the State Personnel Director. As an applicant directly affected by the results of the selection or comparative analysis process, you may file a written appeal with the State Personnel Director. Review of the completed, signed and submitted appeal will be timely on the basis of written material submitted by you, using the official appeal form signed by you or your representative. This form must be completed and delivered to the State Personnel Board by email at within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the Department's action. For further information on the Board Rules, you can refer to 4 Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, at spb.colorado.gov/board-rules. Supplemental Information A complete application packet must include: A completed State of Colorado application. If using education to qualify, a copy of your college/university transcripts. Transcripts must be attached to your colorado.gov/jobs application. If you are a veteran, a copy of your DD214 attached to your colorado.gov/jobs application. The Selection Process: All applications that are received by the closing of this announcement will be reviewed against the Minimum Qualifications in this announcement. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications proceed to the next step. Colorado Revised Statutes require that state employees are hired and promoted based on merit and fitness through a comparative analysis process. Part of, or all of, the comparative analysis for this position may be a structured application review, which involves a review of the information you submit in your application materials by Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) against the preferred qualifications. A top group, up to six candidates, will be invited to schedule an interview with the hiring manager. E-Verify: CDPHE uses e-Verify, an Internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about , including your rights and responsibilities. ADAAA Accommodations: The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator, Daniel Mckenna at or call 303-692-6319. Toll Free Applicant Technical Support: If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV technical support at 855-524-5627 Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application first- ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files, and second, close the document before you attempt to upload (attach) it. The State of Colorado offers permanent employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, as well as a comprehensive leave program. Please click the following link for detailed information: Please note that each agency's contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon. 01 CDPHE-A pre-employment background check will be conducted as part of the selection process. As a condition of employment, are you willing and able to submit to a background check if offered the position? Yes No 02 CDPHE: If you are a current or previous State of Colorado classified employee, please provide your Employee Identification Number (EID) in order to verify your current or previous employment. Your EID begins with 997 and is nine digits long. Please do not enter your Social Security Number. Type N/A if you are not a current or previous state employee. 03 CDPHE-Applicants for State of Colorado classified positions must be current residents of Colorado. Are you a current resident of the State of Colorado who can provide proof of Colorado residency? Yes No 04 CDPHE- A complete application packet requires, Transcript(s), and/or DD214 (if veteran). Did you attach the requirements that apply to you? If using education to qualify, a copy of your college/university transcripts. Transcripts must be attached to your application. If you are a veteran, a copy of your DD214 attached to your colorado.gov/jobs application. Yes No 05 Please provide an example of a difficult analytical test that you have encountered or currently perform in a laboratory setting. What was your role in this testing, why was this analysis difficult and how do you address the difficulty? What measures do you take to ensure you are consistently achieving the correct results? What resources do you rely on as aids to solve problems with the procedure and successfully complete the assigned analysis? 06 What steps do you take to ensure that you are safely and reliably conducting laboratory testing? How does clinical laboratory QA/QC fit into your daily processes? Please provide current or previous examples. Yes No Required Question
Created: 2026-03-13