Research Associate Specialist

Louisiana State University • Baton Rouge, LA

9d • Onsite

About The Position

Responsible for performing basic and intermediate chemical laboratory work which involves the qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis of various samples including, 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. Performing basic and intermediate laboratory tasks required for operation of laboratory including sample preparation, preventative and routine maintenance of analytical equipment, preparation of solutions and reagents, purchase of required reagents and supplies and normal laboratory housekeeping duties. Perform work in accordance with modern analytical chemical laboratory methods and procedures, such as those approved by AAFCO, AAPFCO, AOAC, FDA, USDA, and EPA as well as SOPs used by the laboratory. 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
• Qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis of various samples (feed, fertilizer, water, soil, plant and animal tissues)
• Utilizing sophisticated instrumentation such as gas and liquid chromatography, inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometer, and nitrogen combustion analyzer
• Performing basic and intermediate laboratory tasks including sample preparation
• Preventative and routine maintenance of analytical equipment
• Preparation of solutions and reagents
• Purchase of required reagents and supplies
• Normal laboratory housekeeping duties
• Performing work in accordance with modern analytical chemical laboratory methods and procedures approved by AAFCO, AAPFCO, AOAC, FDA, USDA, and EPA, as well as laboratory 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 and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level