Chemist I, II, or III (Career Pathing)

Chemist I

JOB SUMMARY

Performs a variety of chemical analyses, routine and non-routine, on environmental samples using basic to advanced equipment and instrumentation such as UV-Vis (Ultra-Violet Visible Spectrophotometer), FIA (Flow Injection Analyzer), AA (Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer), ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometer), IC (Ion Chromatograph) and/or GC (Gas Chromatograph). Follows prescribed EPA methodology, other methodology such as ASTM and Standard Methods, as well as laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs). Generates, calculates, records and validates data using laboratory equipment and instrumentation following prescribed quality control criteria. Operates and maintains laboratory equipment and instrumentation using good laboratory practices. Works with other Chemist to train laboratory personnel on methods, procedures, equipment, instrumentation and various laboratory software applications. Adheres to safety guidelines required by the laboratory and the District. Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs a variety of chemical analyses, routine and non-routine, on environmental samples using basic to advanced equipment and instrumentation. Follows prescribed EPA methodology, other methodology such as ASTM and Standard Methods, as well as laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs). Generates, calculates, records and validates data following prescribed quality control criteria. Operates and maintains laboratory equipment and instrumentation using good laboratory practices. Adheres to safety guidelines required by the laboratory and the District.
• Organizes, collates, compiles and classifies information and data. Validates own and other analyst's data for reporting against defined quality control parameters and verifies for correct recording and accuracy of calculations in reports, software, spreadsheets and quality control samples. Verifies that all records and logs are maintained and accurate.
• Maintains quality control records on analyses. Keeps detailed records and writes reports. Notes and reports trends in QC to supervision. Critically examines sample data for trends and anomalies and reports to supervision. Assists with corrective actions for data issues.
• Ensures that all testing materials are available for daily samples and projects. Requests testing materials from laboratory stockroom as needed. Cleans, prepares and maintains all testing materials and work areas. Validates that all equipment and instruments are in working order. Maintains and performs calibration of laboratory equipment and instruments. Troubleshoots equipment and instrument issues. Makes decisions on own initiative and in conjunction with others regarding corrective actions pertaining to equipment, instruments and sample results.
• Learns and validates new equipment, instruments, systems, methods and procedures. Assists with the development of the equipment, instruments, systems, methods and procedures. Participates in equipment and instrument procurement process. Assists with the setup of new equipment and instruments. Assists with reviewing and revising SOPs.
• Provides verbal and written information about issues and problems to supervisors and managers. Advises on technical points and must be able to explain this information in lay terms to other individuals. Prepares technical reports and data packages.
• Coordinates and directs activities of other laboratory staff during scheduled off-shift, holiday and weekend hours. Instructs and trains laboratory staff on SOPs, methods, equipment, instrumental techniques and good laboratory practices. Reviews own, peer's and Analyst's data for accuracy and method compliance prior to reporting to supervision.
• Required to work a rotational schedule including off-shift, holidays and weekend hours as the department is staffed a minimum of 50 hours per week. Must be able to work flexible hours that may include consecutive weekends and may change on short notice.
• Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.

Chemist II

JOB SUMMARY

Performs a variety of chemical analyses, routine and non-routine, on environmental samples using basic to advanced equipment and advanced instrumentation such as ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometry), ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry), IC (Ion Chromatography), GC (Gas Chromatography), GC-MS (Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry) and/or HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography). Follows prescribed EPA methodology, other methodology such as ASTM and Standard Methods, as well as laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs). Generates, calculates, records and validates data using laboratory equipment and instrumentation following prescribed quality control criteria. Operates and maintains laboratory equipment and instrumentation using good laboratory practices. Assists with training laboratory personnel on methods, procedures, equipment, instrumentation and various laboratory software applications. Adheres to safety guidelines required by the laboratory and the Sewer District. Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs a variety of chemical analyses, routine and non-routine, on environmental samples using basic to highly advanced equipment and instrumentation. Follows prescribed EPA methodology, other methodology such as ASTM, Standard Methods and other recognized publications as well as laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs). Generates, calculates, records and validates data following prescribed quality control criteria. Operates and maintains laboratory equipment and instrumentation using good laboratory practices. Adheres to safety guidelines required by the laboratory and the Sewer District.
• Organizes, collates, compiles, classifies and interprets information and data. Validates own, other analyst's and peer's data for reporting against defined quality control parameters and verifies for correct recording and accuracy of calculations in reports, software, spreadsheets and quality control samples. Verifies that all records and logs are maintained and accurate.
• Maintains quality control records on analyses. Keeps detailed records and writes reports. Notes and reports trends in QC to supervision. Critically examines sample data for trends and anomalies and reports to supervision. Initiates corrective actions for data issues in coordination with laboratory supervision and quality team.
• Ensures that all testing materials are available for daily samples and projects. Requests or directs requests of testing materials from laboratory stockroom as needed. Cleans, prepares and maintains all testing materials and work areas. Validates or oversees that all equipment and instruments are in working order. Sets up, maintains and performs calibration of laboratory equipment and instruments. Leads troubleshooting of equipment and instrument issues. Makes decisions on own initiative and in conjunction with others regarding corrective actions pertaining to equipment, instruments and sample results.
• Keeps abreast of new equipment, instruments, systems, methods and procedures. Assists with management of special projects in conjunction with other departments, organizations and government agencies. Assists with the set-up, development and validation of new equipment, instruments, systems, methods and procedures. Participates in equipment and instrument procurement process. Assists with reviewing, revising and writing SOPs.
• Provides spoken and written information about issues and problems to supervisors and managers. Advises on technical points and must be able to explain this information in lay terms to other individuals. Prepares technical reports and data packages. Assists with the preparation of training sessions about new methods, procedures and instrumentation given to other governmental agencies, professional organizations and educational facilities.
• Checks that the work of various laboratory staff has been carried out to specification. Coordinates and directs activities of other laboratory staff during scheduled off-shift and weekend hours. Instructs and trains laboratory staff on SOPs, methods, equipment, instrumental techniques and good laboratory practices. Reviews own, peer's and Analyst's data for accuracy and method compliance prior to reporting to supervision.
• Required to work a rotational schedule including off-shift, holidays and weekend hours as the department is staffed a minimum of 50 hours per week. Must be able to work flexible hours that may include consecutive weekends and may change on short notice.
• Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.

Chemist III

JOB SUMMARY

Develops, validates, operates, maintains and troubleshoots advanced analytical instrumentation such as ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometer), ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer), GC (Gas Chromatograph), GC-MS (Gas Chromatograph Mass Spectrometer), GC-MS-MS (Gas Chromatograph Tandem Mass Spectrometer), HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatograph) and/or LC/MS/MS (Liquid Chromatograph Tandem Mass Spectrometer. Works independently to research, implement and validate new chemical methods. Works with supervision to make recommendations, create specifications and evaluate new analytical instrumentation and methods. Leads the training of laboratory personnel utilizing advanced instrumentation and various laboratory software applications. Adheres to safety guidelines required by the laboratory and the Sewer District. Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs a variety of chemical analyses, routine and non-routine, on environmental samples using highly advanced equipment and instrumentation. Follows prescribed EPA methodology, other methodology such as ASTM, Standard Methods and other recognized publications as well as laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs). Generates, calculates, records and validates data following prescribed quality control criteria. Performs preventative maintenance of equipment and instrumentation and troubleshoots when issues arise. Works with supervision to manage instrument service contracts. Adheres to safety guidelines required by the laboratory and the Sewer District.
• Organizes, collates, compiles, classifies, interprets and statistically analyzes information and data. Validates own, other analyst's and peer's data for reporting against defined quality control parameters and verifies for correct recording and accuracy of calculations in reports, software, spreadsheets and quality control samples. Verifies that all records and logs are maintained and accurate.
• Researches new methods and equipment and makes recommendations and writes detailed specifications for the procurement of new equipment, technology and methodology. Performs development and validation of new equipment, instrumentation and methodology.
• Maintains quality control records on analyses. Keeps detailed records and writes reports. Notes and reports trends in QC to supervision. Critically examines sample data for trends and anomalies and reports to supervision. Initiates and leads corrective actions for data issues in coordination with laboratory supervision and quality team.
• Serves as the laboratory's technical expert on instrumentation and software applications including instrument interfaces. Maintains instrumentation and performs troubleshooting procedures when necessary. Detects abnormal operation of laboratory equipment and implements necessary corrective action, including requesting maintenance and repair of equipment and instruments. Works with supervision to manage instrument service contracts.
• Ensures that all testing materials are available for daily samples and projects. Requests or directs requests of testing materials from laboratory stockroom as needed. Cleans, prepares and maintains all testing materials and work areas. Validates or oversees that all equipment and instruments are in working order. Sets up, maintains and performs calibration of laboratory equipment and instruments. Oversees troubleshooting of equipment and instrument issues. Makes decisions on own initiative and in conjunction with supervision regarding corrective actions pertaining to equipment, instruments and sample results.
• Directs laboratory staff to ensure adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Reviews, revises and writes SOPs as necessary.
• Keeps abreast of new equipment, instruments, systems, methods, procedures, emerging contaminants and environmental issues. Manages special projects in conjunction with other departments, organizations and government agencies. Manages set-up, development and validation of the equipment, instruments, systems, methods and procedures. Leads equipment and instrument procurement process.
• Provides verbal and written information about issues and problems to supervisors and managers. Advises on technical points and must be able to explain this information in lay terms to other individuals. Prepares technical reports and data packages. Develops training materials for various test methods, laboratory software applications and instrumentation. Develops and provides contact hour training courses for the laboratory and operations staff. Conducts on-the-job training and demonstrates procedures and software applications to various laboratory staff. Prepares and presents talks about new methods, procedures and instrumentation for other governmental agencies, professional organizations and educational facilities.
• Works with supervision to evaluate the analytical processes for correct functioning. Facilitates new ideas from laboratory staff to improve processes and generate solutions to new method development, software application utilization, data accessibility and information sharing. Assists supervision with streamlining analytical procedures to make efficient while maintaining method compliance. Critically examines information, equipment and software programs for ease of use and applicability and makes recommendations for purchase after evaluation. Tests and validates new equipment and methods prior to use in the laboratory.
• Checks that the work of Chemists and other laboratory staff has been carried out to specification. Coordinates and directs activities of other laboratory staff during scheduled off-shift and weekend hours and special projects. Instructs and trains laboratory staff on SOPs, methods, equipment, instrumental techniques and good laboratory practices. Reviews own, peer's, Chemist's and Analyst's data for accuracy and method compliance prior to reporting to supervision. Assists in the hiring and promotion process as required.
• Required to work a rotational schedule including off-shift, holidays and weekend hours due to the department being staffed a minimum of 50 hours per week. Must be able to work flexible hours that may include consecutive weekends and may change on short notice.
• Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION

Candidate must possess bachelor's degree, preferably in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science or a closely related field.

EXPERIENCE

Candidate must have one (1) year of hands-on experience using, maintaining and troubleshooting advanced instrumentation such as UV-Vis, FIA, AA, ICP, ICP-MS, GC, GC-MS, IC and/or HPLC utilizing chemical principles. The ability to perform chemical analyses following EPA methodology is preferred.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Candidate must possess a valid driver's license with a driving record in accordance with the District's acceptable guidelines.
• A valid Class II State of Ohio Wastewater Analyst Certificate is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Candidate must possess knowledge of organic and inorganic chemistry principles and be familiar with general laboratory procedures and laboratory equipment.
• Candidate must possess critical thinking and analytical skills and effective verbal and written communication. Must also possess people skills in order to instruct others and establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Candidate must have the ability to perform routine chemical analyses quickly and accurately while using various laboratory equipment.
• Candidate must have the ability to complete tasks efficiently, keep detailed and accurate records, follow operating procedures and work independently on projects and assignments is required.
• Candidates must be proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Candidate must possess the ability to be reliable and punctual in reporting to work as scheduled.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

During the course of performing the essential functions of this position the employee must be able to compare, compute, analyze, synthesize, copy, compile, coordinate and instruct. Ability to communicate while exhibiting strong interpersonal skills is required. Physical work will need to be performed, such as standing, sitting, handling, feeling, hearing, walking, reaching, fingering and talking. Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. Position will require visual demands of near acuity, depth perception, far acuity, accommodation and color vision. While working in the lab, the employee may be exposed to hazards including chemicals and pathogens. The department is staffed a minimum of 50 hours per week; therefore, all employees are required to work a rotational schedule, including off shift and weekend hours.