Dept of State Health Services
Chemist I
Dept of State Health Services, Austin, TX, United States
Job Description:
Chemist I
Work closely with Team Leaders in the Inorganic Chemistry Group on projects with minimal latitude for independent judgment. Rotates as needed to perform testing procedures in Food and Water Analysis Team and Metals Analysis Team. Performs chemical analyses of drinking water, consumable food products, and other environmental samples according to standard operating procedures (SOPs). Operates atomic absorption spectrometer (AAS), flow injection analyzer (FIA) and other laboratory analysis related equipment. Performs pre-analysis and sample preparation procedures. Prepares standard and reagent solutions. Performs routine maintenance, routine troubleshooting procedures, and cleaning procedures including washing reusable glassware. Maintains complete, accurate, and timely documentation as required. Performs analyst initial data review and quality control evaluation and compiles data report package. Follows safety guidelines, properly disposes of wastes, and performs other duties as assigned. Follows all HHS and DSHS Policies and Procedures. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory.
Essential Job Functions:
EJF 1. Performs sample receiving, sample preservation, and pre-analysis testing procedures such as Acidification, pH, Turbidity Screen, Sample Homogenization, Residual Chlorine Screen and Conductivity as required by applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). Labels and disposes of assigned samples under direction of a senior chemist or Team Leader. Maintains clean, organized work area as part of good contamination control practices. Maintains complete, legible, and organized records including observations of any non-routine characteristics or occurrences during the preparation or analysis process. Corrects written records with a single line through the error, dates, and initials the correction. Informs Team Leader or designated substitute in a timely manner when problems occur and takes appropriate actions after consultation with the Team Leader. (35%)
EJF 2. Prepares reagents, calibration standards and QC samples according to SOP. Meet the criteria specified in the QC Checklist. Performs a demonstration of capability (IDC) for each method before working independently on samples. Assists with sample digestion of quality control samples for method development and validation projects. Maintains complete and accurate records of samples, analysis, and maintenance and helps with archival. (25%)
EJF 3. Performs routine analyses of drinking water, environmental, and food samples using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS), Flow Injection Analyzer (FIA) and other techniques that approved by EPA and Standard Methods. Reads, understands and satisfactorily follows the SOP and Quality Manual. Cooperates and communicates effectively with coworkers and Team Leader concerning the workload and assigned testing. Records observations, data, calculations, and results concurrent with performance of each task. Performs data entry accurately. Analyzes proficiency samples like routine samples. Assists the Team Leader in investigating causes for analytical problems, implementing solutions, and documenting corrections. Reads and follows 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). (20%)
EJF 4. Operates equipment according to SOP and equipment operation manual. Performs routine maintenance of equipment. Informs the Team Leader immediately of any equipment problems. Assists with basic troubleshooting of routine problems. Performs and documents instrument preventive maintenance and ensures that all instrument maintenance, changes, and repairs including actions performed by service technicians are documented. Understands operation and analysis software used by each instrument. Understands instrument theory and mechanics sufficiently to recognize operational problems and to work with Team Leader or senior chemist to resolve problems. (10%)
EJF 5. 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. 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:
Knowledge of analytical chemistry principles and techniques
Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance principles and practices
Knowledge of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) analysis procedures
Knowledge of The NELAC Institute TNI Standard and ISO requirements
Knowledge of United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) analysis procedures
Knowledge of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) analysis procedures
Knowledge of American Association of Analytical Chemists (AOAC) analysis procedures
Knowledge of laboratory instrumentation used for environmental analysis
Knowledge of food analysis procedures
Skill in solving instrumental and analytical problems
Skill in the interpretation of analytical data
Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products
Skill in safe use of laboratory chemicals and equipment
Ability to build effective working relationships
Ability to communicate effectively
Ability to accurately follow detailed instructions
Ability to pay attention to detail
Ability to make well-reasoned and timely decisions
Ability to organize tasks to achieve timely completions
Ability to learn and apply new analysis techniques
Registration or Licensure Requirements:
Initial Selection Criteria:
Have earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry, environmental science, biological sciences, or physical sciences from an accredited college or university.
Laboratory experience in performing chemical analysis.
Experience with EPA or other analysis methodologies, or experience with laboratory quality assurance procedures.
Additional Information:
Applicant is required to list chemistry courses on application showing the course name and number of semester hours (a copy of the transcript, faxed list, or using one of the employment history box is acceptable). Please note the Requisition number on application and on all faxed information. Providing verification of educational requirements is a condition of employment.
MOS Code:
92L, 71B, 72D, 8831, 4B0X, 61CX
HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.
I-9 Form - Click here to download the I-9 form.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.
Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to Jobs at HHSC and DSHS
Chemist I
Work closely with Team Leaders in the Inorganic Chemistry Group on projects with minimal latitude for independent judgment. Rotates as needed to perform testing procedures in Food and Water Analysis Team and Metals Analysis Team. Performs chemical analyses of drinking water, consumable food products, and other environmental samples according to standard operating procedures (SOPs). Operates atomic absorption spectrometer (AAS), flow injection analyzer (FIA) and other laboratory analysis related equipment. Performs pre-analysis and sample preparation procedures. Prepares standard and reagent solutions. Performs routine maintenance, routine troubleshooting procedures, and cleaning procedures including washing reusable glassware. Maintains complete, accurate, and timely documentation as required. Performs analyst initial data review and quality control evaluation and compiles data report package. Follows safety guidelines, properly disposes of wastes, and performs other duties as assigned. Follows all HHS and DSHS Policies and Procedures. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory.
Essential Job Functions:
EJF 1. Performs sample receiving, sample preservation, and pre-analysis testing procedures such as Acidification, pH, Turbidity Screen, Sample Homogenization, Residual Chlorine Screen and Conductivity as required by applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). Labels and disposes of assigned samples under direction of a senior chemist or Team Leader. Maintains clean, organized work area as part of good contamination control practices. Maintains complete, legible, and organized records including observations of any non-routine characteristics or occurrences during the preparation or analysis process. Corrects written records with a single line through the error, dates, and initials the correction. Informs Team Leader or designated substitute in a timely manner when problems occur and takes appropriate actions after consultation with the Team Leader. (35%)
EJF 2. Prepares reagents, calibration standards and QC samples according to SOP. Meet the criteria specified in the QC Checklist. Performs a demonstration of capability (IDC) for each method before working independently on samples. Assists with sample digestion of quality control samples for method development and validation projects. Maintains complete and accurate records of samples, analysis, and maintenance and helps with archival. (25%)
EJF 3. Performs routine analyses of drinking water, environmental, and food samples using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS), Flow Injection Analyzer (FIA) and other techniques that approved by EPA and Standard Methods. Reads, understands and satisfactorily follows the SOP and Quality Manual. Cooperates and communicates effectively with coworkers and Team Leader concerning the workload and assigned testing. Records observations, data, calculations, and results concurrent with performance of each task. Performs data entry accurately. Analyzes proficiency samples like routine samples. Assists the Team Leader in investigating causes for analytical problems, implementing solutions, and documenting corrections. Reads and follows 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). (20%)
EJF 4. Operates equipment according to SOP and equipment operation manual. Performs routine maintenance of equipment. Informs the Team Leader immediately of any equipment problems. Assists with basic troubleshooting of routine problems. Performs and documents instrument preventive maintenance and ensures that all instrument maintenance, changes, and repairs including actions performed by service technicians are documented. Understands operation and analysis software used by each instrument. Understands instrument theory and mechanics sufficiently to recognize operational problems and to work with Team Leader or senior chemist to resolve problems. (10%)
EJF 5. 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. 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:
Knowledge of analytical chemistry principles and techniques
Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance principles and practices
Knowledge of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) analysis procedures
Knowledge of The NELAC Institute TNI Standard and ISO requirements
Knowledge of United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) analysis procedures
Knowledge of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) analysis procedures
Knowledge of American Association of Analytical Chemists (AOAC) analysis procedures
Knowledge of laboratory instrumentation used for environmental analysis
Knowledge of food analysis procedures
Skill in solving instrumental and analytical problems
Skill in the interpretation of analytical data
Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products
Skill in safe use of laboratory chemicals and equipment
Ability to build effective working relationships
Ability to communicate effectively
Ability to accurately follow detailed instructions
Ability to pay attention to detail
Ability to make well-reasoned and timely decisions
Ability to organize tasks to achieve timely completions
Ability to learn and apply new analysis techniques
Registration or Licensure Requirements:
Initial Selection Criteria:
Have earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry, environmental science, biological sciences, or physical sciences from an accredited college or university.
Laboratory experience in performing chemical analysis.
Experience with EPA or other analysis methodologies, or experience with laboratory quality assurance procedures.
Additional Information:
Applicant is required to list chemistry courses on application showing the course name and number of semester hours (a copy of the transcript, faxed list, or using one of the employment history box is acceptable). Please note the Requisition number on application and on all faxed information. Providing verification of educational requirements is a condition of employment.
MOS Code:
92L, 71B, 72D, 8831, 4B0X, 61CX
HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.
I-9 Form - Click here to download the I-9 form.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.
Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to Jobs at HHSC and DSHS