11/30/2007 15130

CHEMIST 2

DEFINITION: This is advanced professional work in the detection, quantitation and characterization of chemical substances and materials in a base laboratory or mobile laboratory setting.

An employee in this job conducts or coordinates a variety of advanced laboratory tests that quantitatively and qualitatively identify chemical materials and substances and develops new and improved testing methods and procedures for a variety of purposes. Work involves establishing the testing procedures, conducting or leading in the conduct of the chemical tests, and interpreting test results. Development, assessment, and interpretation of quality assurance and quality control components are essential to the evaluation and validation of results produced. Work may include testifying in legal proceedings or Commonwealth courts about the tests conducted and the results obtained. Work is differentiated from the lower level by the independent responsibility for conducting research to develop and modify testing methods and procedures and performing advanced chemical analysis through the use of advanced testing procedures and equipment. Work is usually performed with considerable independence but is reviewed by a professional supervisor for results and conclusions through reports and conferences.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Prepares samples for analytical laboratory tests, conducts advanced instrumental analysis, interprets and evaluates tests and prepares reports of analyses.

Analyzes biological fluids, tissues, milk and food for biochemical/chemical constituents such as lipids, enzymes, proteins, carbohydrates, electrolytes and similar compounds, including toxic substances.

Analyzes animal feeds, fertilizers and limestone products to determine compliance with label guarantees and adulteration.

Leads in the conduct or conducts analytical tests on materials for highway maintenance and construction to determine conformance with department requirements on product composition and durability.

In a mobile laboratory environment, serves as a lead analyst for specific instruments to develop and conduct a wide variety of tests to analyze and report on locally collected samples, and operates mobile analytical unit vehicles to travel to test sites.

Testifies as a witness in Commonwealth courts or at hearings, as required.

Maintains instrument systems by performing preventive maintenance and troubleshooting the cause and correction of instrument malfunction.

Performs statistical calculations including determination of detection limit.

Performs quality assurance data reviews of other analysts’ work.

Develops and provides training to staff on national quality assurance standards, monitors and implements quality assurance components, and plans and implements annual internal audit of methodologies.

Performs on-site evaluations of all areas of external environmental laboratories including qualifications of laboratory personnel, instrumentation, quality control, laboratory management practices, and other factors to determine compliance with federal and state regulations regarding accredited laboratories.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the principles and practices of chemistry, particularly those involving standardized analytical techniques.

Knowledge of modern chemical laboratory methods, equipment and materials.

Knowledge of laboratory safety.

Knowledge of reference sources of information and current literature in the field of analytical chemistry.

Knowledge of quality assurance and quality control principles and practices.

Knowledge of leading project teams.

Knowledge of processes to develop, validate and implement new methods
and procedures.

Ability to perform standard laboratory operations using safety equipment.

Ability to perform a variety of chemical analyses with accuracy.

Ability to perform complex calculations to yield final results and to ensure that quality assurance standards have been met.

Ability to prepare scientifically accurate and thorough reports of work performed.

Ability to read.

Ability to effectively communicate orally.

Ability to effectively communicate in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to distinguish the color spectrum.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year as a Chemist 1;

                                                                                                                                                          or

One year of professional chemical analytical experience, and a bachelor’s degree that includes 30 credits in chemistry or biochemistry;

                                                                                                                                                          or

A graduate degree in chemistry.

CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT: Certain positions will require possession of a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license.