Chemistry Technician I

State of North Carolina

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Soil Testing Lab at the Agronomic Division in the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) is excited to announce the opening of a Chemistry Technician I position. You will work in a team environment that is high-volume and fast paced analyzing soil samples for North Carolina residents. In its busiest time, 3,000 samples are analyzed daily. From the lab results, soil fertility recommendations that maximize plant growth and yield, optimize profitability, and protect the environment are provided to the client. Duties include: • Subsampling soil samples using volumetric scoops • Weighing soil samples on an analytical balance • Extracting nutrients from soil samples • Determining soil pH and electrical conductivity • Conducting UV/VIS spectroscopy analysis Other aspects of the position include: • Utilizing a custom-made Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) • Evaluating data for accuracy • Preparing solutions and standards • Maintaining accurate records • Cleaning labware • Adhering to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols The employee must be able to work independently with minimal supervision. Tasks include lifting trays and boxes that typically weigh 30-50 lbs., as well as standing for extended periods of time throughout the day. This physical effort is required to load trays of soil onto tables for sample processing. Normal working hours are 6:00 am to 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday, but occasional overtime may be required to meet established turnaround times. These working hours may be flexed depending on the length of lunch break taken. A written practicum will be given to candidates during the interview to evaluate the candidate’s knowledge of analytical chemistry and other related sciences. Selected candidate must pass a fitness for duty/functional capacity evaluation post-offer paid for by the Department. About us: The NCDA&CS Agronomic Services Division provides statewide diagnostic and advisory services that increase agricultural productivity, promote responsible land management, and safeguard environmental quality. The Division is comprised of three laboratory sections and a field services section with a combined total of 58 employees. The Agronomic Division maintains a very active, employee-led safety program and is recognized as a Public-Sector Star site by the NC Department of Labor.

Requirements

• Knowledge of the basic scientific principles applicable in a laboratory setting.
• Ability to independently perform and record complex laboratory tests and procedures, perform basic mathematical calculations, and record results with a high degree of accuracy.
• Ability to understand and follow research protocols, laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs), and safety procedures.
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 45 lbs. regularly.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff.
• Associate's degree in one of the chemical, biological, microbiological, environmental or natural resource sciences or a closely related curriculum including related chemistry laboratory coursework from an appropriately accredited institution; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

• Subsampling soil samples using volumetric scoops
• Weighing soil samples on an analytical balance
• Extracting nutrients from soil samples
• Determining soil pH and electrical conductivity
• Conducting UV/VIS spectroscopy analysis
• Utilizing a custom-made Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
• Evaluating data for accuracy
• Preparing solutions and standards
• Maintaining accurate records
• Cleaning labware
• Adhering to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols

Benefits

• Eligible state employees are entitled to comprehensive benefits, including a variety of leave options, professional development opportunities, insurance, and more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree