CHEMIST

Compliance and Diversity Commitment

We continually strive for a workforce that reflects the diversity within the State of Illinois. Bilingual skills are welcome. The State of Illinois is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. Applicants requiring accommodations should notify the Human Resources office and provide required documentation.

Class

Title:

CHEMIST I – 06941
Salary: $5,572–$7,898 per month (effective 7/1/25)
Job Type: Salaried Full Time
County:
Sangamon

Number of Vacancies : 1
Job Requisition

The Bureau of Environmental Programs is seeking a Chemist I to join our pesticide laboratory. The Chemist performs chemical analysis on a variety of samples, interprets instrument data, prepares reports, and ensures accuracy and compliance with laboratory protocols in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment.

• Prepares samples for chemical analysis in the pesticide laboratory.
• Interprets instrument data, calculates analytical results, and prepares reports of analyses.
• Performs analysis of prepared samples by High Performance Liquid Chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC/UV), Gas Chromatography with Electron‑capture detection (GC/ECD), Gas Chromatography with Flame‑ionization detection (GC/FID), Gas Chromatography with Mass Selective Detection (GC/MSD) and High Performance Liquid Chromatography with triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (LC/MS/MS).
• Performs routine preventative maintenance on laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Prepares standard solutions and analytical reagent solutions and documents their preparation.
• Cleans and prepares glassware for analysis.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned that are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

• Requires completion of four years of college from a recognized university including at least 32 hours of chemistry.
• Qualifying state employees in the Upward Mobility Program may have the stated requirements waived by successful completion of specific proficiency tests and training programs.

• At least 10 hours in laboratory coursework and successful completion of coursework in Analytical Chemistry or Instrumental Analysis.
• Working knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of chemical analysis as applied in analytical work.
• Assuming responsibility for extreme accuracy in analysis and setting up and using sensitive laboratory equipment.
• Hands‑on operating and troubleshooting Liquid Chromatography (LC) and Gas Chromatography (GC) coupled with Mass Spectrometry (MS/MS).
• Knowledge of pesticide residue extraction (e.g., QuEChERS or Solid Phase Extraction) and analysis in complex matrices such as vegetation, soil, or water.
• Knowledge of EPA or FDA pesticide residue methodologies and data validation guidelines.
• Knowledge of groundwater monitoring protocols and the ability to interpret label guarantee compliance data for pesticides.
• Ability to interpret technical data, follow precise analytical protocols, and execute verbal and written instructions within a laboratory setting.

• Requires completion of a name‑based background screening and self‑disclosure of criminal history.

8:00 am – 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday

Agency Contact:
Bureau of Human Resources
Email: AGR.Human Resources
Phone: 217‑785‑5099