CHEMIST I

State of Illinois•Springfield, IL

8d•$5,572 - $7,898•Onsite

About The Position

The Bureau of Environmental Programs is seeking a Chemist I to join our pesticide laboratory. The Chemist I performs chemical analysis on a variety of samples; interprets instrument data; interprets test results and assumes responsibility for accuracy of tests, reports, and findings. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong communication skills, attention to detail and the ability to adapt to evolving priorities in a collaborative, fast-paced laboratory environment.

Requirements

Requires completion of four years of college from a recognized university including at least 32 hours of chemistry.
Qualifying state employees in the Upward Mobility Program shall have the stated requirements of this classification waived by successful completion of specific proficiency tests and training programs.

Nice To Haves

Prefers at least 10 hours in laboratory coursework and successful completion of coursework in Analytical Chemistry or Instrumental Analysis.
Prefers working knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of chemical analysis as applied in analytical work.
Prefers working knowledge with assuming responsibility for extreme accuracy in analysis and setting up and using sensitive laboratory equipment.
Prefers working knowledge with direct, hands-on operating and troubleshooting Liquid Chromatography (LC) and Gas Chromatography (GC) coupled with Mass Spectrometry (MS/MS).
Prefers working knowledge of pesticide residue extraction (e.g., Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe (QuEChERS) or Solid Phase Extraction) and analysis in complex matrices like vegetation, soil, or water.
Prefers working knowledge with EPA or FDA pesticide residue methodologies and data validation guidelines.
Prefers working knowledge of groundwater monitoring protocols and the ability to interpret label guarantee compliance data for pesticides.
Prefers working knowledge to include the ability to interpret technical data, follow precise analytical protocols, and execute verbal and written instructions within a laboratory setting.

Responsibilities

Prepares samples for chemical analysis in the pesticide laboratory.
Interprets instrument data, calculates analytical results and prepares reports of analyses.
Performs analysis of prepared samples by High Performance Liquid Chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC/UV), Gas Chromatography with Electron-capture detection (GC/ECD), Gas Chromatography with Flame-ionization detection (GC/FID), Gas Chromatography with Mass Selective Detection (GC/MSD) and High Performance Liquid Chromatography with triple quadruple mass spectrometer (LC/MS/MS).
Performs routine preventative maintenance on laboratory instruments and equipment.
Prepares standard solutions and analytical reagent solutions and documents their preparation.
Cleans and prepares glassware for analysis.
Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.