Chemist II

State of North Carolina•4312 District Drive Wake, NC

7d•$63,927 - $111,871•Onsite

About The Position

The Chemist II serves as a senior technical lead within the Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory of the State Laboratory of Public Health’s Environmental Sciences Unit. The position conducts advanced analytical testing of drinking water and environmental lead samples using ICP‑OES, ICP‑MS, and ion chromatography. Work includes providing quality assurance oversight, reviewing instrument data, and supporting release of final analytical reports. This role supports laboratory operations through daily sample accessioning coordination, troubleshooting instrumentation, training staff, and assisting with supervisory duties when needed. Additional responsibilities include reviewing standard operating procedures, contributing to quality assurance plan updates, reporting proficiency testing samples, and ensuring accurate and timely delivery of inorganic chemistry data.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in chemistry from an appropriately accredited institution and four years of progressive chemistry laboratory experience OR An equivalent combination of education and experience.

Nice To Haves

Advanced proficiency with EPA Drinking Water Laboratory Certification Program processes demonstrated through direct experience supporting certified drinking water and environmental testing workflows.
Experience with instrumental analysis skill demonstrated through routine use of ICP‑OES, ICP‑MS, ion chromatography, and automated titration for inorganic chemistry testing.
Expert‑level laboratory QA/QC competency demonstrated through implementing quality assurance plans, reviewing analytical documentation, and ensuring accurate reporting of inorganic chemistry results.
Intermediate proficiency using Microsoft Office applications and Laboratory Information Management Systems demonstrated through preparing data reports, organizing QA materials, and supporting laboratory documentation workflows.
Demonstrated experience performing wet chemistry techniques supported by validated analytical methods within an environmental or drinking water laboratory setting.

Responsibilities

Perform advanced drinking water and environmental lead analyses using ICP‑OES, ICP‑MS, and ion chromatography.
Conduct quality assurance oversight for inorganic chemistry laboratory activities.
Review and verify raw instrument data and final analytical report deliverables.
Coordinate daily sample accessioning workflows to support efficient laboratory operations.
Assist chemists with troubleshooting of instrumentation and analytical methods.
Serve as acting backup supervisor during the absence of the Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory Supervisor.
Train laboratory staff on instrumental analysis and related procedures.
Review and update laboratory standard operating procedures and support annual quality assurance plan revisions.
Prepare and report proficiency testing samples for external programs.
Coordinate instrument repairs and preventative maintenance with contracted service vendors.