Chemist II

Job Responsibilities

Performs analyses of biological specimens for Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defined chemical terrorism agents in support of the CDC Public Health Emergency Preparedness grant program. Liaises with the CDC Division of Laboratory Services. Assures full documentation of methods selected and their validation. Performs qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses and experiments with inorganic and organic substances.

Performs high‑complexity analysis of clinical specimens for exposure to chemical threat agents in support of the CDC’s Public Health Emergency Preparedness Cooperative Agreement. Conducts specimen preparation and analytical procedures for the detection and monitoring of trace levels of chemical agents associated with, but not limited to, chemical terrorism and incidental exposures. Analyzes blistering agents, cyanide, heavy metals, nerve agents, ricin, Lewisite, and other chemical threats using LC‑MS/MS, ICP‑MS, GC/MS, LC‑ICP‑MS, and HRMS.

Develops, validates, and implements CDC‑approved chemical toxic agent methods in the areas of chemical terrorism and biomonitoring/biosurveillance. Performs scientific calculations, prepares reports, and effectively communicates data and results to colleagues and stakeholders. Strictly adheres to and maintains QA/QC protocols and all safety regulations. Performs routine maintenance and troubleshooting of analytical instrumentation and equipment. Uses LIMS and other software used by the Public Health Laboratory.

Works closely with senior chemists on method selection, development, and improvement projects. Maintains a clean laboratory and work environment. Monitors supply inventories and expendables. Periodically attends meetings, trainings, and conferences related to work.

State Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry and experience in a laboratory setting related to the area of employment, including experience with complex analytical instrumentation such as gas, ion, or liquid chromatographs or atomic absorption spectrophotometers; or a bachelor’s degree in the natural sciences with academic credits in chemistry and similar laboratory experience.

• A doctorate in chemistry may be substituted for the required work experience.
Institutions of higher learning must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry and 3 years of relevant laboratory experience, including experience in Mass Spectrometry (GC/MSD, LC‑MS/MS, ICP‑MS, HRMS); or
• Bachelor’s degree in the natural sciences with at least 16 academic credits in chemistry and 5 years of relevant laboratory experience, including experience in Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS, LC‑MS/MS, ICP‑MS, HRMS).

• Ability to train personnel, work extended hours/weekends/holidays during emergency situations and exercises, and make visual observations of specimens and reports.

• Must follow all safety protocols, be able to bend, climb, stoop, and lift 30 lb.

• Master’s degree in chemistry with at least one year of experience with analytical instrumentation and equipment (LC‑MS/MS, GC/MSD, ICP‑MS, HRMS).

• Ph.D. in chemistry.

• Strong background in Mass Spectrometry, method development, separation science, instrument software, coding, and computers.

• Preference for toxicology and clinical analytical chemistry experience, public speaking skills, and HRMS expertise.

The Department of Public Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information.

Applicants needing accommodation for medical reasons or a sincerely held religious belief may submit a request. A reasonable accommodation may be granted if it does not impose undue hardship or pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others.

In accordance with the State’s…