11/30/2007 15140

CHEMIST 3

DEFINITION: This is supervisory and 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 functions as a working supervisor in a chemistry laboratory unit performing chemical analysis by instrumental or wet methods. Work involves developing and maintaining training programs for personnel to develop laboratory proficiency and professional skill. Work may involve conducting studies to develop and implement improved laboratory methods and analytical work. Work may include testifying in legal proceedings or Commonwealth courts about the tests conducted and the results obtained. Work is performed with considerable independence but is reviewed by an administrative or professional supervisor for adherence to established standards and program operation.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Plans, organizes and supervises quantitative and qualitative chemical analysis in a laboratory section.

Plans, organizes and supervises laboratory work to ensure adequacy and accuracy of testing and to achieve optimum utilization of instrument capacity and resources.

Plans, organizes and supervises inspections to evaluate the capability of laboratory testing service providers and their compliance with contract specifications.

Plans or assists in planning and conducts on-the-job training programs to develop the proficiency, work skills and knowledge of laboratory personnel.

Conducts applied studies to develop or implement improved methods, techniques and procedures for laboratory analysis.

Determines resource needs, prepares budget recommendations, and prepares preliminary purchasing specifications to maintain and develop laboratory capabilities and services.

Monitors analytical standards, laboratory safety and staff performance.

Implements and monitors safety, quality assurance and quality control practices for compliance with laboratory standards.

In a mobile laboratory environment, supervises the conduct of a wide variety of tests to analyze and report on locally collected samples, leads a team in providing emergency response analytical support, and operates mobile analytical unit vehicles to travel to test sites.

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

Performs the full range of supervisory functions.

Employees in this job may participate in the performance of their subordinates’ work consistent with operational or organizational requirements.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the principles and practices of analytical chemistry and biochemistry by both wet and instrument analysis techniques.

Knowledge of modern chemical laboratory methods, equipment and materials.

Knowledge of laboratory safety.

Knowledge of quality assurance and quality control practices.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of supervision.

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

Ability to perform a wide variety of complex chemical analyses with accuracy.

Ability to perform complex calculations and make comparative assessments.

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

Ability to train and instruct others in laboratory practices.

Ability to read.

Ability to effectively communicate orally.

Ability to effectively communicate in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to implement laboratory safety guidelines.

Ability to distinguish the color spectrum.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year as a Chemist 2;

                                                                                                                                                                  or

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

                                                                                                                                                                  or

One year of professional chemical analytical experience, and a graduate degree in chemistry.

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