Chemist II, Inorganic Chemistry Section

State of Utah•Taylorsville, UT

12d•Onsite

About The Position

This position involves performing routine and complex chemical analysis of environmental samples using EPA and Standard Methods. The role requires operating, calibrating, and troubleshooting analytical laboratory equipment. Responsibilities include data reduction, uploading results into a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and compiling data packages. The Chemist II will review laboratory records for completeness and adherence to Quality Assurance Plans (QAP) and regulatory standards. This role also involves preparing media, chemical solutions, and reagents, maintaining meticulous documentation, and periodically reviewing/updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Successful completion of training and achieving analytical proficiency is essential. The position requires maintaining a clean and safe laboratory workspace, contributing to committees, and performing additional duties as assigned. Continued employment is contingent upon a successful fingerprinting background check, and compliance with DHHS Immunization policy is required. Teleworking is not available for this position.

Requirements

Degree in Chemistry (B.S. or higher) or closely related field—or equivalent work experience.
Experience in analyzing inorganic environmental pollutants in strict accordance with EPA and Standard Methods protocols.
Experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting wet chemistry and inorganic analytical instruments—including spectrophotometers, automated flow-injection colorimeters, ion chromatographs, titrators, and pH/conductivity meters—to ensure minimal downtime and reliable data accuracy.
Experience with diverse sample preparation techniques—such as filtration, digestion, thermal drying/ashing, dilution—to ensure sample integrity for inorganic analysis.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple competing priorities simultaneously without sacrificing quality, accuracy, or thoroughness.
Proven track record of collaborating effectively within a team and maintaining a steady, professional composure during high-pressure or unpredictable situations.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, with the ability to effectively listen, speak, read, and write in a professional laboratory environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) or Google Workspace, with proven experience creating formal reports, standard operating procedures (SOPs), business communications, and managing data processing tasks.
Experience operating Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) to track samples, log test results, maintain laboratory workflows, and ensure data integrity.
Experience applying QA/QC protocols in environmental chemical analysis, including validating analytical data, running control samples, and maintaining regulatory compliance.
Proven track record of following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), documenting laboratory notes accurately, and maintaining chain-of-custody protocols.
Basic understanding of laboratory safety protocols, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), proper handling of concentrated acids/hazardous materials, and chemical waste management.

Responsibilities

Perform routine and complex chemical analysis of environmental samples using EPA and Standard Methods (including EPA 150.1, 300.0, 300.1, 325.2, 365.1, 375.2, and SM 2510B).
Operate, calibrate, troubleshoot, and perform preventive maintenance on analytical laboratory equipment and section instrumentation to minimize downtime.
Conduct post-analysis data reduction, upload accurate results into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and compile comprehensive data packages for peer review.
Review laboratory records, raw data, and client files for completeness, precision, and strict adherence to the Quality Assurance Plan (QAP) and regulatory standards.
Prepare media, chemical solutions, working reagents, and calibration standards following strict Quality Control (QC) protocols and maintaining complete chain-of-custody and traceability records.
Maintain meticulous, real-time documentation in lab notebooks, equipment logs, and electronic records in compliance with regulatory standards.
Periodically review and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and analytical protocols to reflect updated methodologies and operational improvements.
Successfully complete training and achieve full analytical proficiency across all testing methods within the section.
Promptly complete all required laboratory and Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) training modules and programs.
Maintain a clean, organized, safe, and fully stocked laboratory workspace.
Actively contribute to section, program, laboratory-wide, or departmental committees.
Perform additional analytical, operational, or administrative duties as assigned by leadership.