Chemist II

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Works on the volatile organic compounds (VOC) team performing analysis of environmental samples. Works with team leaders on projects with moderate latitude for independent judgment to complete assigned tasks. Performs the preparation, extraction, and moderately complex analysis of samples for gas chromatography (GC), gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), or liquid chromatography/tandem mass Spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) using approved methods for the sample matrix. Performs all quality control (QC) measures required by the method and the standard operating procedure (SOP) and documents procedures accurately. Consults with team leader or group manager on complex chromatograms and spectral interpretation to determine the appropriate procedure for quantitation. Performs routine maintenance on equipment and required cleaning procedures for glassware. Based on work area, consistently complies with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. Maintains supplies, follows inventory procedures, properly disposes of wastes, and performs other duties as assigned. Manages sample load and tracks samples to meet required holding times. Assists with method development and validation projects. Follows all HHSC and DSHS Policies and Procedures.

Requirements

• Have earned a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in chemistry, environmental sciences, physical sciences or biological sciences from an accredited institution.
• Experience working in an analytical chemistry laboratory environment in the last 5 years.
• Knowledge of the principles of chromatography and application to gas chromatography, (GC) high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and mass spectrometry (MS).
• Knowledge of analytical chemistry techniques and application of good laboratory practices.
• Knowledge of statistical analysis of data and application to quality control.
• Skill in the operation of a computer-controlled GC, HPLC or MS instrument and data acquisition system to perform accurate analysis.
• Skill in the maintenance of GC, HPLC or MS instrumentation, associated autosamplers and computer systems.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOP) to analyze samples, identify compounds, quantitate and accurately document results.
• Ability to work individually and cooperatively in teams to complete assigned tasks.
• Ability to manually manipulate samples and quality controls to prepare samples and quality control samples for analysis.
• Ability to manually perform the maintenance tasks required ensuring the performance of assigned equipment and handling necessary supplies.
• Knowledge of Ethics and the ability to demonstrate accountability.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in a high-throughput laboratory in the last 5 years preferred.
• Experience performing EPA environmental organic analytical methods preferred.
• Experience performing gas chromatography within the last 5 years preferred.
• Experience operating mass spectrometers preferred.
• Experience operating purge and trap autosamplers preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and/or analyze samples for organic compounds by GC, GC/MS, HPLC or LC/MS.
• Check samples for proper preservative and container.
• Prepare reagents and standards.
• Monitor expiration dates.
• Perform sample preparation techniques including liquid/liquid, solid phase extraction.
• Perform chemical reactions and derivatization following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Quality Manual requirements.
• Prepare and/or analyze quality control samples according to SOPs.
• Calibrate instruments and verify standards with reference material.
• Help develop data acquisition parameters for identification of target compounds.
• Identify target compounds and interpret routine chromatograms.
• Consult with team leader on complex chromatograms and/or spectral interpretation to determine the appropriate procedure for quantitation.
• Monitor quality control parameters as required by the method.
• Prepare dilutions as needed to meet the analytical range of the calibration curve.
• Perform first level review of data per SOP requirements.
• Submit data for second level review and approval before expiration of holding times or assigned deadlines.
• Accurately track samples.
• Prepare and/or analyze samples to meet EPA holding times.
• Work to meet and exceed the on-time delivery goals by test and client at a productive rate.
• Read and follow all policies, procedures and guidelines of the Quality Manual, USEPA Drinking Water Certification Manual, The NELAC Institute (TNI), reference methods, and administrative, analytical and quality assurance Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Participate in training.
• Perform initial demonstration of capability before working independently on samples.
• Maintain proficiency for assigned methods by performing Continuing demonstration of capability, method detection limit studies and participating in proficiency testing.
• Respond to any internal or external audit findings as responsible or assigned.
• Maintain complete, timely and accurate records of all procedures performed.
• Operate and perform routine maintenance and verification of equipment as specified in SOPs and equipment manuals.
• Maintain glassware by performing the cleaning procedures in the SOPs.
• Troubleshoot routine problems using equipment manuals, knowledge and experience.
• Maintain reagents and supplies by following laboratory procedures for inventory control.
• Present written requests for supplies and standards in advance of need.
• Inform the team leader of any equipment or inventory problems.
• Follow SOPs to receive supplies and verify that the supplies meet procedure specifications.
• Maintain complete, timely and accurate records of maintenance and inventory.
• Comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory.
• Minimize exposure of all personnel to chemical hazards by proper use of personal protective equipment, following management practices, using fume hoods and proper safety practices in the laboratory.
• Read and follow the chemical hygiene plan and SOPs.
• Properly label all chemicals.
• Follow safety data sheet (SDS) recommendations.
• Wear safety glasses and lab coats at all times in designated areas.
• Properly identify, label, record and dispose of wastes and samples.
• Keep work area clean and organized to reduce contamination.
• Attend all required safety training.
• Communicate with others immediately any safety problems that arise.
• Attend work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy.
• Notify Group Manager of all absences.
• Enter leave into CAPPS.
• Perform required training.
• Perform other duties as directed by the Team Leader or Group Manager.
• Offer suggestions and new ideas for improving performance and operations.
• May train others.
• Actively participate and/or serve in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation.

Benefits

• insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level