Chemist I

Job/Position DescriptionChemist IWork 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 FunctionsEJF 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 Proc https://jobshrportal.hhsc.state.tx.us/ENG/CareerPortal/job_profile.cfm?szOrderID=615692 Copy the URL in the preceding sentence to an Internet Explorer browser to apply to the job directly through the Texas Health and Human Services Career Portal.