Chemist II

Job Description:
Work hours/days and laboratory assignments may vary. This position may be required to work on Saturday. Works in the GC Analysis Group performing analysis on environmental samples. Works with the Team Leaders on projects with moderate latitude for independent judgment to complete assigned tasks. Performs the preparation, extraction, and moderately complex analysis of samples for gas chromatography (GC), gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), or high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using approved methods for the sample matrix. Performs all quality control (QC) measures required by the method and the standard operating procedure (SOP) and documents procedures accurately. Consults with team leader or group manager on complex chromatograms and spectral interpretation to determine the appropriate procedure for quantitation. Performs routine maintenance on equipment and required cleaning procedures for glassware. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. Maintains supplies, follows inventory procedures, properly disposes of wastes, and other duties as assigned. Manages sample load and tracks samples to meet required holding times. Understands and applies the job’s principles, basic functions, and/or necessary technical skills. Assists with method development and validation projects. Meets all HHSC Performance Criteria. Follows all HHSC and DSHS Policies and Procedures. Essential Job Functions:
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
EJF 1. Chemistry/QC: Prepare and/or analyze samples for organic compounds by GC, GC/MS, or HPLC. Checks samples for proper preservative and container. Prepares reagents and standards. Monitors expirations dates. Performs sample preparation techniques including liquid/liquid, solid phase extraction, sonication, using shakers, performing chemical reactions and derivatization to meet Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Quality Manual requirements. Prepares and/or analyzes quality control samples according to the SOP. Calibrates instruments and verifies standards with reference material. Develops data acquisition parameters for identification of target compounds. Identifies target compounds and interprets routine chromatograms. Consults with Team Leader on complex chromatograms and/or spectral interpretation to determine the appropriate procedure for quantitation. Monitors Quality Control Parameters as required by the method. Notifies team lead immediately of any issues. Prepares dilutions to meet the analytical range of the calibration curve. Performs first level review of data per SOP requirements. Submits data for second level review and approval before expiration of holding times or assigned deadline. (60%)
EJF 2. Sample Management & Productivity: Accurately track samples. Prepares and/or analyzes samples to meet EPA holding time (no exceptions). Work to meet and exceed the on-time delivery goals by test and client and at a productive rate. The productive rate is determined by historical productivity and work time unit evaluation. Extraction and/or analysis must be performed with acceptable QA/QC and SOP practices. (5%)
EJF 3. Quality Assurance / Document Control / Records Management: Read and follow all policies, procedures and guidelines of the Quality Manual, USEPA Drinking Water Certification Manual, The NELAC Institute (TNI), reference methods, and administrative, analytical and quality assurance Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Participate in training. Performs Initial Demonstration of Capability before working independently on samples. Maintain proficiency for assigned methods by performing Continuing Demonstration of Capability, Method Detection Limit and Proficiency Testing samples. Responds to any internal or external audit findings as responsible or assigned. Maintains complete, timely and accurate records of all procedures performed. (10%)
EJF 4. Equipment (including glassware) and Supplies: Operates and performs routine maintenance and verification of equipment as specified in SOPs and equipment manuals. Maintains glassware by performing the cleaning procedures in the SOPs. Troubleshoots routine problems using policies and procedures, equipment manuals, knowledge and experience. Maintains reagents and supplies by following laboratory procedures for inventory control. Presents written requests for supplies and standards to team leader days in advance of need. Informs the Team Leader of any equipment or inventory problems. Submits weekly request for available LabSupply items. Follow SOPs to receive supplies and verify that the supplies meet procedure specifications. Maintains complete, timely and accurate records of maintenance and inventory. (10%)
EJF 5. Health and Safety / Housekeeping: Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. Minimize exposure of all personal to chemical hazards by proper use of personal protective equipment, management practices, use of fume hoods and proper safety practices in the laboratory. Read and follow the Chemical Hygiene Plan and SOPs. Properly label all chemicals. Follow safety data sheet (SDS) recommendations. Wears safety glasses and lab coats at all times in designated areas. Properly identifies, labels, records and disposes of wastes and samples. Keeps work area clean and organized to reduce contamination. Attend all required safety training. Communicate with others immediately any safety problems that arise. (5%)
EJF 6. Administrative: Notifies Group Manager of all absences. Enters leave into CAPPS. Performs required training. Performs other duties as directed by the Team Leader or Group Manager. Extracts and/or analyzes quality control samples for method development and validation projects. Offers suggestions and new ideas for improving performance and operations. May train others. (5%)
EJF 7. COOP: Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. (5%) Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of the principles of chromatography and application to gas chromatography, (GC) high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Knowledge of analytical chemistry techniques and application of good laboratory practices. Knowledge of statistical analysis of data and application to quality control. Skill in the operation of a computer controlled GC, HPLC or GC/MS instrument and data acquisition system to perform accurate analysis. Skill in the maintenance of GC, HPLC or GC/MS instrumentation, associated autosamplers and computer system. Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOP) to analyze samples, identify compounds, quantitate and accurately document results. Ability to work individually and cooperatively in teams to complete assigned tasks. Ability to manually manipulate samples and quality controls to prepare samples and quality control samples for analysis. Ability to manually perform the maintenance tasks required ensuring the performance of assigned equipment and handling necessary supplies. Knowledge of Ethics and the ability to demonstrate accountability.

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