Chemist I Jobs

Work hours/days and laboratory assignments may vary. This position may be required to work on Saturday. Works in the Organic Chemistry Group primarily performing environmental extraction and basic analyses. Works closely with Team Leaders on projects with minimal latitude for independent judgment. Performs the preparation, extraction, and basic analysis of routine samples for gas chromatography (GC), gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), or high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using approved methods for the sample matrix. Performs routine maintenance on equipment and required cleaning procedures for glassware. Meets all HHSC Performance Criteria. Follows all HHSC and DSHS Policies and Procedures.

Essential Job Functions:
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
EJF 1. Chemistry/QC: Prepare and/or analyze samples for organic compounds by GC, GC/MS, or HPLC. Checks samples for proper preservative and container. Prepares reagents and assists with preparing standards. Monitors expirations dates. Performs sample preparation techniques including liquid/liquid, solid phase extraction, sonication, shakers, chemical reactions and derivatization to meet Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Quality Manual requirements. Prepares and/or analyzes quality control samples according to the SOP. Calibrates instruments and verifies standards with reference material. Identifies target compounds and interprets routine chromatograms. Monitors Quality Control Parameters as required by the method. Notifies team lead immediately of any issues. Assists with making dilutions of extracts to meet the analytical range of the calibration curve. Performs first level review of data per SOP requirements. Submits data for second level review and approval before expiration of holding times or assigned deadline. (60%)
EJF 2. Sample Management & Productivity: Accurately track samples. Prepares and/or analyzes samples to meet EPA holding time (no exceptions). Work to meet and exceed the on-time delivery goals by test and client and at a productive rate. The productive rate is determined by historical productivity and work time unit evaluation. Extraction and/or analysis must be performed with acceptable QA/QC and SOP practices. (5%)
EJF 3. Quality Assurance / Document Control / Records Management: Read and follow all policies, procedures and guidelines of the Quality Manual, USEPA Drinking Water Certification Manual, The NELAC Institute (TNI), reference methods, and administrative, analytical and quality assurance Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Participate in training. Performs Initial Demonstration of Capability before working independently on samples. Maintain proficiency for assigned methods by performing Continuing Demonstration of Capability, Method Detection Limit and Proficiency Testing samples. Responds to any internal or external audit findings as responsible or assigned. Maintains complete, timely and accurate records of all procedures performed. (10%)
EJF 4. Equipment (including glassware) and Supplies: Operates and performs routine maintenance and verification of equipment as specified in SOPs and equipment manuals. Maintains glassware by performing the cleaning procedures in the SOPs. Assists with troubleshooting routine problems using policies and procedures, equipment manuals, knowledge and experience. Maintains reagents and supplies by following laboratory procedures for inventory control. Presents written requests for supplies and standards to team leader 120 days in advance of need. Informs the Team Leader of any equipment or inventory problems. Submits weekly request for available LabSupply items. Follow SOPs to receive supplies and verify that the supplies meet procedure specifications. Maintains complete, timely and accurate records of maintenance and inventory. (10%)
EJF 5. Health and Safety / Housekeeping: Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. Minimize exposure of all personal to chemical hazards by proper use of personal protective equipment, management practices, use of fume hoods and proper safety practices in the laboratory. Read and follow the Chemical Hygiene Plan and SOPs. Properly label all chemicals. Follow safety data sheet (SDS) recommendations. Wears safety glasses and lab coats at all times in designated areas. Properly identifies, labels, records and disposes of wastes and samples. Keeps work area clean and organized to reduce contamination. Attend all required safety training. Communicate with others immediately any safety problems that arise. (5%)
EJF 6. Administrative: Notifies Group Manager of all absences. Enters leave into CAPPS. Performs required training. Performs other duties as directed by the Team Leader or Group Manager. Assists with extraction and/or analysis of quality control samples for method development and validation projects. Offers suggestions and new ideas for improving performance and operations. (5%)
EJF 7. COOP: Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. (5%)

Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Basic knowledge in the principles of chromatography and extraction procedures employed by analytical laboratories for organic contaminants. Basic knowledge of environmental methods for the analysis of organic compounds. Knowledge of quality control and application to analytical data. Skill in the operation of general laboratory equipment and the associated maintenance. Knowledge and skill with computers to manage sample tracking and evaluate data. Ability to safely handle specialized glassware and solvents used in the extraction procedures. Ability to follow detailed instructions and accurately document procedures. Ability to work individually and cooperatively in teams to complete assigned tasks. Ability to manually shake separatory funnels, lift, and manipulate samples and quality control samples in the preparation for analysis. Ability to manually perform the maintenance tasks required ensuring the performance of assigned equipment and handling necessary supplies. Ability to operate chromatographic instruments at a basic level.

Initial Selection Criteria:
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor’s degree or higher in chemistry, environmental sciences, biological sciences, or physical sciences with a concentration in chemistry. Recent experience in performing analytical methods or experience working in a production laboratory environment preferred.

Additional Information:
Requisition # 547044
Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds. The offered salary will be determined in accordance with budgetary limits, follow HHS salary administration policy and guidelines and based on the candidate’s qualifications.
? Note: Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include: 92L, 71B, 72D, 8831, 4B0X, 61CX. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/JobDescriptions.aspx.
? Applicant is required to list chemistry courses on application showing the course name and number of semester hours (one of the “employment history boxes may be used to record the information; or fax list, or photocopy of college transcripts to AccessHR at 1-866-245-3646. Please note Requisition number on all faxed information. Applicants with diplomas awarded in countries other than the U.S. must contact Laboratory Personnel Services (512-458-7318) for an approved list of credentialing agencies. Providing verification of educational requirements is a condition of employment.

MOS Code:
92L, 71B, 72D, 8831, 4B0X, 61CX