Chemist 1

Do you have prior laboratory experience and a science background? Are you a detail-oriented, self-directed problem solver? If this sounds like you, come join our Laboratory Services team We are hiring for multiple positions in our Wilsonville lab.

At , Laboratory Services provides analytical and scientific technical support to the inspection/service programs of the Oregon Department of Agriculture in the areas of pesticides chemistry, food/dairy chemistry, food/dairy microbiology, and feed/fertilizer chemistry and certification testing (ie. Export Service Center).  Analytical programs help ensure safety, quality and marketability of food and other agricultural products produced and processed in the state and elsewhere.

Employees work with a dynamic and supportive team of mission-focused individuals tasked with ensuring healthy natural resources, environment, and economy for Oregonians now and in the future through inspection and certification, regulation, and promotion of agriculture and food. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are embedded in ODA’s core values. Employees at all levels of the agency work together to foster fairness, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

We have two unique Chemist 1 position in our new Wilsonville lab. Read on below to learn more about each opportunity. 

Chemist 1 (CRL Support Chemist)

What you’ll be doing

• Perform analyzes of cannabis and cannabis products for label compliance, adulteration, potency, and residual solvents following defined methods as part of the Cannabis Reference Lab (CRL) team

• Extract samples for chromatographic analysis using solvents, reagents, and specialized glassware.

• Chromatography extracts for target analyzes

• Quantitative analyzes using reference standards and established QA/QC checks to ensure accurate reporting

• Utilize gas and liquid chromatography with various detectors.

• Digest samples in preparation for heavy metal analyses.

• Prepare reference materials.

• Maintain records and enter data in spreadsheets and databases.

Chemist 1 (Analytical Chemist)

What you’ll be doing

• perform routine analyses of foods, fertilizers, and agricultural products to meet client needs.

• Comminute samples.

• Extract and digest samples prior to analyses.

• Analyze extracts to identify target analyze using gas and liquid chromatography

• Quantitative analyzes using reference standards and established QA/QC checks to ensure accurate result

• Maintain reference materials and other quality critical items.

• Maintain records and enter data in spreadsheets and databases

The ideal candidates demonstrate ability to:

• Adapt to changing workloads and analytical procedures as dictated by staffing and sample prioritization.

• Assist in achieving and maintaining ISO17025/TNI laboratory accreditation through active participation in SOP writing/reviewing/updating and successful participation in performance sample programs, audits, and training.

• Look for opportunities for process improvement.

• Work as a team member.

• Communicate effectively

What we’re looking for:

• A bachelor's degree in chemistry and experience in a laboratory setting related to the area of employment, including experience in operating and interpreting test results from complex analytical instrumentation such as gas, ion or liquid chromatographs or atomic absorption spectrophotometers.

Three additional years of pertinent experience may substitute for the bachelor’s degree.

Projected Recruitment Timeline

• Recruitment Closes: July 14, 2024

• 1st Round of Interviews: July 29, 2024

• 2nd Round of Interviews: TBD or if necessary

• Anticipated Start Date:

*These dates are approximate and may change. *