Inorganic Chemist

About the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH):

The Indiana Department of Health’s mission is to promote, protect, and improve the health and safety of all Hoosiers so that they can reach their optimal health regardless of where they live, learn, work, or play.

This position analyzes surface and drinking water for parameters such as Solids, Biochemical Oxygen Demand, and Nutrients. The role requires extensive use of Excel, Word, and a Laboratory Information Management System.

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $47,320.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

The essential functions of this role are as follows:

• Perform chemical and physical analysis on various clinical, food, water, environmental or other submitted materials to determine presence and/or level of contaminants or toxic substances using a variety of instruments following management-approved procedures.
• Perform analysis using manual or automated instrumentation that meets CLIA, EPA, FDA, and/or USDA regulations.
• Adhere to Quality Assurance guidelines.
• Maintain proficiency and technical expertise by passing Proficiency Testing (PT) samples.
• Ensure instruments are in working order, perform preventative maintenance, and repair laboratory equipment.
• Complete all required paperwork, maintain instrument logbook, prepare technical reports, and update standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Train and cross‑train on other analytical procedures within the laboratory.
• Participate in methodology studies initiated by the supervisor or senior chemist.
• May appear in court or adjudicatory hearings as an expert witness.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:

• General knowledge of principles and practices of clinical, analytical, food, organic, inorganic and/or radiochemistry.
• Practical knowledge of laboratory safety.
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment and automated analytical platforms.
• Ability to conduct quality control analysis.
• Ability to write reports and record technical data and produce reports in a highly regulated setting.
• Ability to integrate new developments into assigned work.
• Effectively communicate, both orally and in writing.
• Follow quality assurance requirements for producing accurate and defensible data.

You must satisfy the following requirements to continue employment:

• For clinical testing, meet testing personnel responsibilities according to the § 493.1495 Standard within 2 years of hire date.

A degree is not required. However, at least 4 years of laboratory experience applying the outlined knowledge, skills, and abilities in a similar role may be considered.

Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full‑time employees which includes:

• Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
• Wellness Rewards Program:
  Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
• Health savings account, which includes bi‑weekly state contribution
• Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
• Two (2) fully‑funded pension plan options
• A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
  • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
  • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
• Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
• 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Group life insurance
• Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
• Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
• Free Parking for most positions
• Free Linked In Learning access

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at