Chemist

Azura is seeking an experienced Chemist to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries Office of Sustainable Fisheries and the National Seafood Inspection Laboratory (NSIL). The Chemist will provide laboratory support for NSIL’s U.S. Market Survey, Seafood Inspection Program, and new lobster biotoxin testing project. These efforts require additional laboratory expertise and capacity beyond NSIL’s current resources, as well as appropriate safety training and personal protective equipment for laboratory hazards.

The Chemist will conduct chemical, microbiological, and food safety analyses supporting NOAA’s Product Quality and Safety Programs and other federal, state, and private clients. Work may include evaluating seafood processors’ compliance with Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) requirements, assessing the effectiveness of the Seafood Inspection Program, identifying illegal or unsafe seafood practices, and supporting seafood export requirements.

Having high attention to detail and the ability to manage short project timelines are critical skills for this position. Potential candidates must also possess the curiosity and ability to find solutions and resolve issues based on available resources and also have strong client and team communication skills. Applicants must be able to operate independently, manage their own work schedule, and dedicate blocks of time for uninterrupted focus.

Work is to be conducted at the NOAA/National Seafood Inspection Laboratory, 3209 Frederic Street, Pascagoula, Mississippi, and is full-time (40 hours per week, Monday through Friday) during normal operating hours of the facility. The estimated start date is November 2, 2026 (pending security clearance processing). Some travel to in-person meetings may be required. This position is not open to visa sponsorship or relocation assistance.

• Pay: $24.12/hour
• Competitive benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401k with employer match; life and disability insurance; and paid time off for vacation, sick leave, and company-observed holidays.

The employee will perform a variety of tasks related to the position. Specific tasks may include the following:

• Analyzing seafood samples for chemical contaminants and hazards using standard scientific methods and techniques;
• Extracting and preparing tissues to conduct the analysis of seafood samples for mercury, selenium content, and mass spectrophotometer analyses;
• Conducting sample extraction and analysis for detection of PSP and DA biotoxins in seafood;
• Performing data QA/QC review;
• Monitoring seafood for banned and adulterating chemicals and pharmaceuticals;
• Accessing NSIL databases and generating reports for the Lab Director, Lead Analysts, and other analysts;
• Completing lab analyses and preparing reports;
• Documenting laboratory activities to support NSIL’s Quality Management System and ISO 17025 standards and performing document control user functions in Media Lab software;
• Performing sample preparation, cleaning glassware, preparing reagents, and maintaining a clean, orderly, and sanitary lab environment;
• Conducting inventories of laboratory supplies, instruments, and equipment in order to maintain the readiness of the laboratory.
• Performing market research as needed;
• Attending staff meetings;
• Following NSIL policies, acting professionally, and contributing positively to the office by maintaining a respectful and inclusive workplace.

• Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry, biology, marine biology, or related discipline from an accredited college or university
• Experience providing standardized technical laboratory support
• Working…