Chemical Threat Specialist

UIOWA•Iowa City, IA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The State Hygienic Laboratory in Coralville is looking for a Chemical Threat Specialist. This role involves preparing clinical and environmental samples and analyzing the collected data. The position will respond to human exposures to chemical threats (terrorism) as directed by the Laboratory Response Network of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The position also receives and attempts to identify unknown chemical threats submitted to the laboratory by various emergency response organizations, such as hazardous materials teams. This position will be responsible for maintaining and operating various instrumentation and will have very similar education and experience as an Associate Chemist (PRG2), but in an environmental lab setting. To meet CLIA regulations, an official transcript or a copy of an official transcript will be required prior to an offer of employment. Applicants with degrees from foreign institutions must have the transcripts evaluated by a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (http://www.naces.org/) and are responsible for all costs associated with that evaluation.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Typically 1 year relevant laboratory experience.
Knowledge of analytical chemistry.
Effective communication, using varied tools and techniques to transmit, receive, and interpret information, both written and verbally, with attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and civil manner and utilize existing resources and learning to achieve or exceed desired outcomes of current and future organizational goals and needs.

Nice To Haves

A master's degree in analytical chemistry is highly desired.
Experience with gas chromatography or liquid chromatography.
Experience with mass spectrometry and the application toward quantitative and qualitative analysis.
Identification of unknown chemical samples.
Clinical laboratory analysis - working with urine and blood borne pathogens.
Method validation and/or method verification.
Knowledge of and work with forensic sample handling procedures.
Working knowledge and experience with Laboratory Information Systems (LIMS).
Work with first responders and other emergency response organizations.
Knowledge of CBRNe threats with an emphasis on Chemical Agents of Opportunity for Terrorism.

Responsibilities

Prepare clinical and environmental samples.
Analyze the data collected.
Respond to human exposures to chemical threats (terrorism) as directed by the Laboratory Response Network of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Receive and attempt to identify unknown chemical threats submitted to the laboratory by various emergency response organizations, e.g. hazardous materials teams.
Maintain and operate various instrumentation.