Public Health Laboratory Scientist III, Chemistry

Overview

The Vermont Department of Health Laboratory is seeking an experienced chemist to join the Organic Chemistry section, supporting drinking water and public health testing programs. This position focuses on analytical chemistry work related to organic contaminants in drinking water and contributes directly to the protection of public health in Vermont.

Qualified applicants will have experience in analytical chemistry, mass spectrometry, and drinking water analysis, with familiarity in GC/MS and/or LC/MS techniques. The role involves routine and advanced laboratory analysis, method implementation, data review, and collaboration with colleagues across laboratory sections.

The ideal candidate is adaptive, communicative, and solution‑oriented, with a positive and enthusiastic approach to laboratory work. Strong collaboration skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to high‑quality analytical results are essential for success in this role.

Public Health Laboratory Scientist III, Chemistry (Job Requisition #54397) is open to all State employees and external applicants.

If you would like more information about this position, please contact Nathan Plocharczyk charczyk.

Resumes will not be accepted via e‑mail. You must apply online to be considered. Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.

Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re‑employment (RIF) rights.

Must be able to work in laboratory conditions with exposure to noxious or harmful fumes and chemicals and operate sophisticated laboratory equipment. Must be willing to be called upon with short notice (sometimes only hours) to respond to a public health emergency or natural disaster affecting a large segment of the Vermont population and able to accurately analyze samples in such a short timeframe.

May need to explain laboratory data and testing to the general public, explain what the VDHL can do and to educate them regarding public health science.

Work requires some travel and incumbents should possess a valid Vermont operator’s license.

Ph.D. in chemistry, biochemistry, physical chemistry, radiochemistry, health physics, forensic science or a related chemical or biological science.

OR

Master’s degree in chemistry, physical science, biological science or a closely related field AND one (1) year or more of professional level quantitative, radiochemistry or instrumental chemistry laboratory experience in a public health, environmental or related laboratory setting.

OR

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, physical science, biological science or a closely related field AND three (3) years or more of professional level quantitative, radiochemistry or instrumental chemistry laboratory experience in a public health, environmental or related laboratory setting.

OR

One (1) year or more of experience as a Public Health Laboratory Scientist II, Chemistry.

Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re‑employment (RIF) rights.

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