Supervisory Chemist

Job SummaryThis position is located in the Department of Forensic Sciences (DFS), Public Health Laboratory (PHL) Division. The mission of the DFS is to provide high-quality, timely, accurate, and reliable forensic science services using best practices and best available technology, focusing on unbiased science and transparency to enhance public safety and health.The incumbent serves as a Supervisory Clinical Chemist who supports the chemical terrorism (CT) initiative under Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cooperative agreement and performs as the CT Coordinator for the District.Duties and ResponsibilitiesPerforms specific analytical tests utilizing protocols transferred from the Centers for Disease Control and other general methods where there are established protocols and practices available. Under minimal supervision, modifies existing methodologies for new testing compounds, matrixes or testing instrumentation. Acts as lead technical specialist in two of three analytical platforms (GC-MS, LC-MS/MS, high resolution mass spectrometry or ICP MS), provides training and acts as a subject matter expert (SME) for the method and instrumentation. Performs technical review of data collected from unit staff; Independently leads projects including but not limited to: method development, research projects, and training programs. Leads validation of new methods and protocols; maintains journals, logs and other records pertinent to method validation. Reviews scientific literature to determine the chemical and biological characteristics of samples to be analyzed to facilitate sample preparation and analysis. Leads in interpretation and evaluation of test results to determine validity and scientific significance.Performs periodic maintenance and calibration of instruments and related equipment within the chemistry laboratory. Performs preventive maintenance and quality control on instruments as outlined in the manufacturer's instructions and Standard Operating Procedures. Leads in the training of lower-level personnel and students in the theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry and quality assurance. Prepares reports and maintains records of work performed on patient specimens and samples; maintains reagent lot numbers for quality control and files such records in an appropriate manner. Provides the full range of supervisory services, as required to manage and direct the work efforts of subordinate staff and activities of assigned operations. Develop quantitative and qualitative measures for evaluating the work performance of staff. Supervises and assigns duties and responsibilities; formulates overall plans for resources; approves and disapproves leave requests; recommends job selections, promotions, incentive recognition and corrective or adverse actions; establishes work standards; and identifies developmental and training needs.Qualifications and EducationDegree: physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics.OrCombination of education and experience -- course work equivalent to a major as shown in A above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.Licenses and CertificationsNoneWorking Conditions/EnvironmentThe work is performed in an office setting and laboratory setting. The office setting is when preparing documentation and the laboratory setting is during the testing and analysis phase. The incumbent may be exposed to hazardous materials, toxic substances, and blood borne pathogens and is required to follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing gear such as laboratory coats, fume hoods, safety goggles, radiation badges, aprons, gloves, and shields, etc. and to adopt sterile techniques.The nature of the DFS mission necessarily involves the potential risks associated with biological or chemical hazards, including morgue functions. Although contact with these functions is intended to be minimal, the risks are nevertheless possible; training to recognize, address, and mitigate these risks is required as is dealing with potentially personally difficult topics, such as crime, death, and disease.Other Significant FactorsTour of Duty: Monday - Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pmPay Plan, Series and Grade: MS-1320-13Promotion Potential: No known promotion potentialType of Appointment: Management Supervisory Service (MSS). Positions in the Management Supervisory Service (MSS) serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and may be terminated at any time with or without cause.Collective Bargaining Unit: This position is not covered under a collective bargaining agreement.Position Suitability: This position has been deemed Safety Sensitive under the guidelines of the DC Personnel Manual and is subject to mandatory pre-employment and periodic criminal background checks and traffic records checks (as applicable). This position is also subject to mandatory pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing. In this position, you may be disqualified from employment based on the presence of marijuana in test results, even if you possess a medical card authorizing the use of medical marijuana.Position Designation: This position has been designated as Essential and acceptance of this offer confirms you agree to adhere to the policies in sections 1271 and 1274 of DPM Chapter 12, regarding essential/emergency employees. As an emergency employee, you will be required to either report to work, stay at work, or telework (if directed to do so) during a declared emergency or during a period of non-emergency where your duties have been deemed as critical District government functions/operations. You may be required to perform other duties outside of your position description during a period of a declared emergency (such as manual labor, shelter services, etc.).Residency Preference: Applicants claiming Residency Preference will be required to maintain residency in the District of Columbia for a minimum of seven (7) years. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of employment.EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.