Public Health Laboratory Scientist , Aquatic Biology

State of Tennessee Job Information

• Opening Date/Time: 03/10/2026 12:00AM Central Time
• Closing Date/Time: 03/23/2026 11:59PM Central Time
• Salary (Monthly): $3,631.00 - $4,533.00
• Salary (Annually): $43,572.00 - $54,396.00
• Job Type: Full-Time
• Location:
  
  Nashville, TN
• Department:
  Health
• Position Location:
  
  Department of Health, Laboratory Services Division, Davidson County
• Classification:
  Aquatic Biology
• Background Check:
  Criminal background check required

Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Medical Laboratory Sciences or related field of study from an accredited college or university; OR successful completion of a two‑year accredited medical laboratory technician program; OR meet CLIA Testing Personnel Qualification Category set forth in federal CMS regulations 42 CFR 493.1489.

Substitution of Education for

Experience:

Undergraduate or graduate coursework may substitute for the required education and experience on a year‑to‑year basis to a maximum of two years (e.g., 24 graduate semester hours or 36 graduate quarter hours). A transcript with ALL credits is required to be uploaded with the employment application to properly evaluate eligibility.

Necessary Special

Qualifications:

Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator’s license throughout the duration of employment.

The PH Laboratory Scientist 1 is an entry/working level position that performs routine laboratory, operational, and administrative activities in the TDH Division of Laboratory Services. Under general supervision of a PH Laboratory Manager or Director, the incumbent serves as Laboratory Scientist responsible for performing laboratory testing and operational tasks of routine difficulty, including but not limited to performing all phases of laboratory testing, performing data analysis and interpretation, and assisting in troubleshooting.

This position performs routine technical and non‑technical work with responsibilities that are less complex than other positions within this job series.

• Responsible for some laboratory testing and work of average difficulty in Aquatic Biology areas.
• Testing includes macroinvertebrate identification and sorting as well as diatom analysis. Field work includes collection of fish, identification of fish, and preparing for filleting. Field work also includes collection of aquatic insects.
• Perform laboratory testing and quality assurance activities for some phases of testing in accordance with agency policies and procedures, regulatory and accreditation requirements, and organizational goals.
• Contribute to laboratory processes and procedures, equipment and supply inventory management, and assist in troubleshooting practices for laboratory testing and operations.
• Participate in laboratory projects and initiatives, data analysis and management, and process improvement activities.
• Communicate laboratory operational and testing activities/tasks with laboratory personnel, supervisor and/or managers. Notify laboratory supervisors and/or managers of any operational issues and maintain effective written and oral communications among personnel.
• Maintain knowledge of environmental laboratory science, or related laboratory specialties. Follow agency and organizational policies and procedures and maintain technical and non‑technical proficiency and competency.
• Participate in technical and non‑technical training for laboratory staff, students, fellows, and other professionals.
• Participate in laboratory section and division activities and initiatives.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• The responsibilities described indicate the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.

• Builds Effective Teams
• Instills Trust
• Action Oriented
• Customer Focus
• Communicates Effectively

• Laboratory Procedures
• Quality Control Standards
• Health and Safety Regulations
• Sample Preparation and Analysis
• Equipment Maintenance and Calibration

• Analytical…