Chemist Assistant

Location: Augusta, ME

Pay Rate: $25.00 per hour

Staffing Solutions Organization (SSO) is seeking a detail-oriented Chemist Assistant to support laboratory operations within the Organic and Environmental Metals (OEM) Section in Augusta, Maine. This position plays a critical role in protecting public health and the environment through the preparation, preservation, and analysis of environmental and drinking water samples.

The Chemist Assistant will support testing programs related to Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention
, Safe Drinking Water
, and Environmental Water Quality
, helping ensure timely and accurate analysis of water, soil, and wipe samples for lead, metals, metalloids, and organic contaminants. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in environmental science, chemistry, public health, and laboratory operations.

• Prepare, preserve, and process environmental and drinking water samples for laboratory analysis.
• Assist with the analysis of water, soil, and wipe samples for lead and other contaminants.
• Evaluate, maintain, troubleshoot, and assist in the repair of laboratory instrumentation.
• Review and accept or reject Quality Control (QC) data based on established procedures.
• Assess sample integrity and suitability for requested testing.
• Perform laboratory testing according to standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Update and maintain SOPs for assigned analytical methods.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory quality assurance and safety standards.
• Communicate technical information and testing results to laboratory personnel, government agencies, and customers as appropriate.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of laboratory activities.

• High school diploma or equivalent, including completion of a laboratory science course;
  OR
• One (1) year of laboratory experience.
• Knowledge of basic laboratory testing methods, techniques, and materials.
• Basic understanding of chemistry and biology principles relevant to laboratory testing.
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established procedures.
• Ability to accurately observe and record test results.
• Ability to distinguish color variations.
• Proficiency using calculators and basic computer applications.

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, or another natural science discipline.
• Previous experience working in an environmental, chemical, public health, or analytical laboratory setting.
• Familiarity with laboratory quality control procedures and documentation.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to accuracy, quality, and safety.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to programs that safeguard Maine's public health and environmental resources. Your work will support critical testing initiatives that help ensure safe drinking water, prevent lead exposure, and protect communities across the state.

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