Analytical Chemist I

Texas A&M•College Station, TX

4d•$27•Onsite

About The Position

The Analytical Chemist I plays a critical role in protecting consumers and enhancing agribusiness by analyzing feed and fertilizers products using a variety of methodologies. Routine regulatory tasks and duties involve preparation, quantitative analysis, and reporting of feed and fertilizer samples for macro (protein, nitrogen, phosphate, potash, etc.), micro nutrients (calcium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, zinc, iron, manganese, magnesium, etc.), contaminant metals (arsenic, lead, thallium, cadmium, mercury, etc.), contaminant chemicals (pesticides, pharmaceutical drugs, herbicides, etc.), biological contaminants (ruminant dna, Salmonella, E. Coli, Botulinum toxin, etc.), veterinary drugs, mycotoxins, and vitamins. Tasks vary based on assigned responsibilities and analytical experience; core responsibilities are routine repetitive tasks of moderate complexity, assisting research scientist in method development, evaluating quality of analytical results, supporting reference material production and tasks that support policy in regulation of feed and fertilizer products. Tasks performed in accordance with OTSC SOPs, ISO 17025 and ISO 17034 standards.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Physical Science or equivalent combination of education and experience.
One year of related experience.
Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.
Knowledge of a wide variety of laboratory equipment, collecting samples, performing analyses, chemical procedures, data entry, and computer records.
Knowledge of basic laboratory procedures and safety practices.
Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively to ensure understanding.
Ability to work independently and seek out assistance when necessary.
Attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of basic scientific terminology.
Knowledge of analytical balances, top-loading balances, volumetric glassware, manual pipettes, and automatic pipettes.
Skilled in use of laboratory and computer equipment; performing repetitive tasks efficiently and accurately; and accurate record keeping.
Able to ensure attention to detail; prioritize tasks and manage competing responsibilities; stay organized; maintain focus under pressure; and meet deadlines.
A combination of knowledge for any of the following instruments: automatic titrators, gravimetric analysis, combustion, flame AA, ICP-OES, ICP-MS, PCR, ELISA, HPLC, LC-MS/MS, GC-MS/MS, and MALDI-TOF instruments.
Knowledge of laboratory accreditation, documentation procedures for traceability, and quality control management.

Responsibilities

Weigh using analytical balances, perform microwave assisted acid digests, hot plate extractions, solid-liquid extractions, liquid-liquid extractions, aliquot feed and fertilizer samples using manual and automatic pipettes, and various wet chemistry techniques. Maintain sample integrity and chain of custody following protocols dependent on sample type. Prepare samples independently and as a team for analyses to help maintain turnaround times.
Perform quantitative analysis of samples using gravimetric analysis, ELISA, HPLC, LC-MS/MS, and GC‑MS/MS instruments. Operate, troubleshoot, and perform weekly user-level cleaning and maintenance on instruments. Perform repetitive tasks of moderate complexity.
Discuss results that do not meet QA/QC criteria with management and determine steps to correct performance.
Order supplies, prepare necessary chemical reagents for sample preparation and analysis, such as standard curves and buffer solutions, and maintain laboratory notebook of preparations.
Analyze and report instrument data, including control and blank samples, using the Nautilus laboratory management system.
Promotes workplace safety. Familiar with resources relevant to chemical and mechanical hazards in laboratory. Uses personal protective equipment while working with hazardous materials.
Prepares technical communications such as SOP's, summaries and/or presentations.
May perform developmental and verification work for methods and processes for which no routine written method exists, under general supervision of research scientist.
Maintain a schedule that is conducive to expected analysis turnaround time and teamwork, including working overtime and flextime as needed.
Testifies and gives depositions for administrative hearings and court cases.
Perform other duties as assigned.