Army MOS · Medical
71A Microbiology
Overview
A Microbiology officer conducts and directs microbiology, parasitology, and immunology procedures. The officer investigates microorganisms, their life processes and relationships with other living forms, and their reactions to their environments.
Core Skills
- laboratory information systems usage
- clinical laboratory workflow management
- biosafety and biosecurity practices
- quality assurance and quality control
- data collection and statistical analysis
- technical report writing
- regulatory compliance and accreditation support
- standard operating procedure development
- sample chain of custody management
- cross functional team leadership
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Windows
- SAP software
Civilian Career Paths
- Medical Laboratory
- Public Health
- Clinical Technician
Training & Development
Getting Started
- Medical Laboratory Scientist, MLS(ASCP)
Career Growth
- Specialist in Microbiology - SM(ASCP)
- Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (CIC®)
- Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality®
Also Common
- Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS/ASCP)
- Specialist in Microbiology (SM/ASCP) · Funded
- Certified in Infection Control (CIC)
- Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)
What the Work Involves
- Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms in prescribed or developed media, controlling moisture, aeration, temperature, and nutrition.
- Provide laboratory services for health departments, community environmental health programs, and physicians needing information for diagnosis and treatment.
- Monitor and perform tests on water, food, and the environment to detect harmful microorganisms or to obtain information about sources of pollution, contamination, or infection.
- Examine physiological, morphological, and cultural characteristics, using microscope, to identify and classify microorganisms in human, water, and food specimens.
- Supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists.
Related Occupations
- Biochemists and Biophysicists
- Biological Technicians
- Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
- Histotechnologists
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a four-year degree or equivalent experience.
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
Report an error on this page