Chemist II

Classified Ad Title:
Chemist II

Post Date
4/21/2021

Expiration Date
5/21/2021

Details:
Performs a variety of chemical analyses, routine and non-routine, on environmental samples using basic to advanced equipment and advanced instrumentation such as ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometry), ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry), IC (Ion Chromatography), GC (Gas Chromatography), GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) and/or HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography). Follows prescribed EPA methodology, other methodology such as ASTM and Standard Methods, as well as laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs). Generates, calculates, records, and validates data using laboratory equipment and instrumentation following prescribed quality control criteria. Operates and maintains laboratory equipment and instrumentation using good laboratory practices. Assists with training laboratory personnel on methods, procedures, equipment, instrumentation, and various laboratory software applications. Adheres to safety guidelines required by the laboratory and the District. Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

- Performs a variety of chemical analyses, routine and non-routine, on environmental samples using basic to highly advanced equipment and instrumentation. Follows prescribed EPA methodology, other methodology such as ASTM, Standard Methods, and other recognized publications as well as laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs). Generates, calculates, records, and validates data following prescribed quality control criteria. Operates and maintains laboratory equipment and instrumentation using good laboratory practices. Adheres to safety guidelines required by the laboratory and the District.

- Organizes, collates, compiles, classifies, and interprets information and data. Validates own, other analyst's, and peer's data for reporting against defined quality control parameters and verifies for correct recording and accuracy of calculations in reports, software, spreadsheets, and quality control samples. Verifies that all records and logs are maintained and accurate.

- Maintains quality control records on analyses. Keeps detailed records and writes reports. Notes and reports trends in QC to supervision. Critically examines sample data for trends and anomalies and reports to supervision. Initiates corrective actions for data issues in coordination with laboratory supervision and quality team.

- Ensures that all testing materials are available for daily samples and projects. Requests or directs requests of testing materials from the laboratory stockroom as needed. Cleans prepares and maintains all testing materials and work areas. Validates or oversees that all equipment and instruments are in working order. Sets up, maintains, and performs calibration of laboratory equipment and instruments. Leads troubleshooting of equipment and instrument issues. Makes decisions on own initiative and in conjunction with others regarding corrective actions pertaining to equipment, instruments, and sample results.

- Keeps abreast of new equipment, instruments, systems, methods, and procedures. Assists with management of special projects in conjunction with other departments, organizations, and government agencies. Assists with the set-up, development, and validation of new equipment, instruments, systems, methods, and procedures. Participates in equipment and instrument procurement process. Assists with reviewing, revising, and writing SOPs.

- Provides spoken and written information about issues and problems to supervisors and managers. Advises on technical points and must be able to explain this information in lay terms to other individuals. Prepares technical reports and data packages. Assists with the preparation of training sessions about new methods, procedures, and instrumentation given to other governmental agencies, professional organizations, and educational facilities.

- Checks that the work of various laboratory staff has been carried out to specification. Coordinates and directs activities of other laboratory staff during scheduled off-shift and weekend hours. Instructs and trains laboratory staff on SOPs, methods, equipment, instrumental techniques, and good laboratory practices. Reviews own, peer's, and Analyst's data for accuracy and method compliance prior to reporting to supervision.

- Required to work a rotational schedule including off-shift, holidays, and weekend hours as the department is staffed a minimum of 50 hours per week. Must be able to work flexible hours that may include consecutive weekends and may change on short notice.

- Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.



Qualifications:
EDUCATION

The candidate must possess a bachelor’s degree, preferably in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.

EXPERIENCE

Candidate must have a minimum of three (3) years of hands-on experience using, maintaining, and troubleshooting advanced instrumentation such as IC, ICP, ICP-MS, GC, GC-MS, and/or HPLC utilizing chemical principles. The ability to perform chemical analyses following EPA methodology is preferred.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATIONS

- Candidate must possess a valid driver’s license with a driving record in accordance with the District’s acceptable guidelines.

- A valid Class III State of Ohio Wastewater Analyst Certificate is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

- Candidate must possess knowledge of organic and inorganic chemistry principles and be familiar with general laboratory procedures and laboratory equipment.

- Candidate must possess critical thinking and analytical skills and effective verbal and written communication. Must also possess people skills in order to instruct others and establish and maintain effective working relationships.

- Candidate must have the ability to perform routine chemical analyses quickly and accurately while using various laboratory equipment.

- Candidate must have the ability to complete tasks efficiently, keep detailed and accurate records, follow operating procedures, and work independently on projects and assignments is required.

- Candidates must be proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel.

- Candidate must possess the ability to be reliable and punctual in reporting to work as scheduled.
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

During the course of performing the essential functions of this position, the employee must be able to compare, compute, analyze, synthesize, copy, compile, coordinate and instruct. The ability to communicate while exhibiting strong interpersonal skills is required. Physical work will need to be performed, such as standing, sitting, handling, feeling, hearing, walking, reaching, fingering, and talking. Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. The position will require visual demands of near acuity, depth perception, far acuity, accommodation, and color vision. While working in the lab, the employee may be exposed to hazards including chemicals and pathogens.

The department is staffed a minimum of 50 hours per week; therefore, all employees are required to work a rotational schedule, including off shift and weekend hours.




Employer:
The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District
Contact:
MacKenzie Hawes

Address:
3900 Euclid Ave.

Work Phone:
2168816600

Email:
dietzelm@neorsd.org