Research Associate Specialist

Louisiana State University

10d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is responsible for performing basic and intermediate chemical laboratory work, including qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis of various samples such as feed, fertilizer, water, soil, plant, and animal tissues for a variety of analytes. Some analyses will require the use of sophisticated instrumentation, including gas and liquid chromatography, inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometer, nitrogen combustion analyzer, and other analytical instrumentation. The role also involves performing basic and intermediate laboratory tasks essential for laboratory operation, such as sample preparation, preventative and routine maintenance of analytical equipment, preparation of solutions and reagents, purchasing required reagents and supplies, and general laboratory housekeeping duties. Work will be performed in accordance with modern analytical chemical laboratory methods and procedures, including those approved by AAFCO, AAPFCO, AOAC, FDA, USDA, and EPA, as well as laboratory-specific SOPs. Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• B.S. in chemistry, biochemistry, environmental science, or an agricultural science related field.

Nice To Haves

• Course work or experience in chemistry or laboratory analysis.
• Strong background in analytical chemistry.
• Familiarity with the handling of feed, fertilizer, pesticides, or other agricultural inputs.
• Familiarity with laboratory quality assurance and quality control.

Responsibilities

• Performing basic and intermediate chemical laboratory work.
• Conducting qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis of various samples (feed, fertilizer, water, soil, plant, and animal tissues).
• Utilizing sophisticated instrumentation for analyses, including gas and liquid chromatography, ICP-OES, and nitrogen combustion analyzers.
• Performing basic and intermediate laboratory tasks for laboratory operation.
• Conducting sample preparation.
• Performing preventative and routine maintenance of analytical equipment.
• Preparing solutions and reagents.
• Purchasing required reagents and supplies.
• Maintaining normal laboratory housekeeping duties.
• Performing work in accordance with modern analytical chemical laboratory methods and procedures (e.g., AAFCO, AAPFCO, AOAC, FDA, USDA, EPA, SOPs).

Benefits

• Retirement
• Multiple medical insurance options
• Supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.)
• Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses)
• University holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas)
• Generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Possible educational leave
• Tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System

What This Job Offers

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