Under the general supervision of a section supervisor, techs in the Microbiology department are responsible for plate reading for various cultures types including, but not limited to, urines, stool, respiratories, genital, MRSA, wounds and fluids. This requires the ability to perform microscopic identification of bacteria and yeast correctly as well as the documentation of all steps within the LIS.  Techs also perform rapid testing, to include PCR testing, and culture set ups on specimens during their shifts. Stocking and QC on all necessary media and test kits is performed by all techs in microbiology. Techs are expected to maintain and support all CAP and Joint Commission accreditation standards in all work practices. Phlebotomy competencies are established and maintained by all technical staff.

Microbiology staff typically work between the hours of 0700-1700. Typical shifts are 0700-1530 and 0800-1630 but may vary based on departmental needs. Microbiology is staffed 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Holidays and weekends are rotated between the microbiology staff.