Scientist II-DHHS Nebraska Public Health Environmental Laboratory

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Public Health Environmental Laboratory, an EPA certified environmental laboratory, is seeking a full-time Scientist II.

The Scientist II will:

• Prepare and analyze drinking water, surface water, and wastewater samples for metals ICPMS, minerals by AA, and mercury by discrete analyzer.
• Ability to work alternate weekends performing minimal microbiological testing is required for this position.
• Perform other analytical and quality control duties as assigned.
• It is an expectation that the Scientist II will always present and conduct themselves in a professional manner when representing the laboratory and working with both internal and external State and Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) partners.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree with major in chemistry, biology or related field OR Post high school coursework/training in chemistry, biology or related field AND three years of experience in a scientific laboratory.

ICPMS experience in an environmental lab.

Ability to lift up 25 LB containers.
Must be available to work alternating weekends performing minimal microbiological testing.

Knowledge of
: the principles of chemistry related to the work assigned; atomic adsorption and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry techniques; computer applications such as Word, Excel, and Access; lab safety practices; quality management principles; advanced knowledge of lab instrumentation, operation, and calibration;

Skill in
: applying analytical principles and performing analyses; operating computers and laboratory instruments; interpreting and troubleshooting laboratory results; maintaining lab instruments and work environment in a safe and operable condition; summarizing findings and conclusions of analyses into technical lab reports; reviewing the work of other chemists; technical repair of specialized equipment; safe handling of chemicals and hazardous waste.

Ability to
: communicate effectively; interact with lab staff and the public; understand and follow supervisory instructions, equipment operation manuals, and safety policies; instruct other lab staff in the policies, procedures, and standards of a lab function; interpret data correctly and record results; work with limited supervision; compose correspondence using correct grammar, punctuation and spelling; relay knowledge gained to co-workers to recognize and solve problems;

present and conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times when representing the laboratory; lift up 25lb containers.