Chemistry Technician

Chemistry Technician I (S)

The Chemistry Technician I position provides technical support to the Inorganic Chemistry Unit within the Environmental Sciences Section of the State Laboratory of Public Health. The role performs routine and standardized laboratory tasks including sample accessioning, wet chemistry bench analysis, quality assurance checks, and preparation of environmental and drinking water samples for testing. Work includes operating and maintaining laboratory instruments, managing sample documentation within the laboratory information management system, and supporting daily laboratory workflows to ensure timely and accurate processing.

This position functions within a regulated laboratory environment that requires adherence to established safety procedures, data integrity standards, and accreditation requirements. The role supports chemists and chemistry technicians and contributes to overall laboratory operations through consistent and precise technical execution.

Key duties include:

• Accession drinking water and environmental lead samples and record associated information in the laboratory information management system.
• Apply accessioning labels, verify sample documentation, and prepare samples for designated testing procedures.
• Perform wet chemistry tests such as total dissolved solids and total suspended solids using established laboratory methods.
• Assist in preparing samples for metals analysis through hot-block digestion and other standardized preparation techniques.
• Conduct backup instrumental analysis using automated titration equipment.
• Complete routine laboratory tasks including glassware washing, inventory receipt, sample disposal, and workspace upkeep.
• Carry out periodic laboratory safety and quality assurance checks in accordance with internal procedures and accreditation standards.
• Support sample digestion workflows and provide general operational assistance to chemistry technicians and chemists.
• Review and follow standard operating procedures relevant to assigned technical tasks.
• Perform additional laboratory support functions as assigned to maintain efficient unit operations.

Candidates now meet the minimum qualifications of a position if they meet the minimum education and experience listed on the vacancy announcement. The Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)/ Management Preferences are not required. Applicants who possess the following skills are preferred:

• Demonstrated experience accessioning environmental and drinking water samples in a laboratory information management system (LIMS) with intermediate proficiency in electronic documentation.
• Proven record performing wet chemistry analyses such as TDS and TSS using standardized laboratory methods, with documented accuracy in recorded results.
• Measurable experience preparing samples for metals testing through hot-block digestion and related inorganic chemistry preparation techniques.
• Documented success conducting routine laboratory safety and quality control checks in accordance with established laboratory procedures and accreditation requirements.
• Established history managing core laboratory support tasks—including inventory receipt, sample disposal, and glassware cleaning—with consistent completion under defined timelines.

• Must be able to stand for prolonged periods.
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

About the NC Division of Public Health (DPH):
The NC Division of Public Health works to promote and contribute to the highest possible level of health for the people of North Carolina. Our entire statewide system of public health has dedicated professionals who carry out our mission every day through a wide range of essential and activities touching the lives of everyone in our state.

The State Laboratory of Public Health (SLPH), we provide medical and environmental laboratory services such as testing, consultation, and training, to public and private health provider organizations responsible for…