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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania |
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POSITION DESCRIPTION FOR JOB POSTING |
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Position Number: 50575852 |
Description Activated On: 12/19/2025 8:23:12 AM |
Position Purpose: Describe the primary purpose of this position and how it contributes to the organization’s objectives. Example: Provides clerical and office support within the Division to ensure its operations are conducted efficiently and effectively. To conduct chemical and physical analysis of human food, animal feed, agronomic products, and environmental samples for the determination of compliance with regulatory standards set forth or enforced by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. |
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Description of Duties: Describe in detail the duties and responsibilities assigned to this position. Descriptions should include the major end result of the task. Example: Types correspondence, reports, and other various documents from handwritten drafts for review and signature of the supervisor. 1.Organizes and prepares laboratory samples using standardized and automated techniques and instrumentation in support of the state organic program. 2.Mixes chemicals to create standard solutions and reagents for determination of pesticides in environments and food samples. 3.Performs analyses using chemical, physical or instrumental techniques. 4.Analyzes animal feed for nutrient and non-nutrient elements by official AOAC, FDA methods and/or standard operating procedures to determine accuracy of label guarantees and possible adulteration. 5.Analyzes raw agricultural commodities (RAC) and/or processed commodities of RAC for adherence to USDA and/or state organic program standards utilizing official FDA methods, AOAC methods, or internal standard operating procedures. 6.Analyzes human food and animal feed for potential adulteration with chemical contaminates. 7.Performs data analysis and necessary calculations on data collected during analysis. Submit to supervisor for review as required. 8.Records and enters analysis results into computer programs and databases for official analysis reports or other uses. 9.Identifies instrument malfunctions and assay control problems. 10.Orders equipment and supplies necessary for the continuous operation of the assigned laboratory area. 11.Maintain Chemical’s Inventory and MSDS sheets in assigned laboratory area. 12.Wears protective gear and maintains assigned laboratory area in a clean, orderly, and safe condition, adheres to good laboratory practices as stated in the laboratory safety manual. 13.Assists in the implementation of new methods and procedures or the conduct of special projects. 14.Participate in relevant check sample programs based on program areas. 15.Testifies as a Commonwealth witness, providing expert testimony of test results and conclusions from test results. 16.Participate in various mandatory and employee enhancement trainings provided by the department. 17.Analyzes other sample types as necessary in support of laboratory objectives. 18.Performs special duties and assignments as requested by management. 19.Participate in cross training between analysts as assigned by management. 20.Utilize current technology to perform daily tasks. 21.Read and comprehend scientific / technical literature and analytical methodologies. 22.Perform duties in a laboratory environment. 23.Maintain integrity of evidence and records. 24.Must be able to walk, climb ladders and other overhead access, bend and stoop to reach samples, supplies, and equipment. |
Decision Making: Describe the types of decisions made by the incumbent of this position and the types of decisions referred to others. Identify the problems or issues that can be resolved at the level of this position, versus those that must be referred to the supervisor. Example: In response to a customer inquiry, this work involves researching the status of an activity and preparing a formal response for the supervisor’s signature. 1. Employee determines which samples to prepare and analyze on a given day based on knowledge of received date, due date, and analysis needs. Supervisor may override this decision at their discretion. 2. Employee determines when to order and how much supplies to order for continuous operation of the laboratory. Supervisor may override this decision at their discretion. 3. Employee informs supervisor when there is a problem with either samples or equipment so the supervisor can determine the best course of action. 4. Employee determines best appropriate methodology and equipment to employ for sample analysis. Supervisor may override this decision at their discretion. |
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Requirements Profile: Identify any specific experience or requirements, such as a licensure, registration, or certification, which may be necessary to perform the functions of the position. Position-specific requirements should be consistent with a Special Requirement or other criteria identified in the classification specification covering this position. Example: Experience using Java; Professional Engineer License Experience: A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, or a bachelor’s degree that includes 30 credits in chemistry or biochemistry. Holding a Real ID driver's license (or alternative such as passport or Military ID) Licenses, registrations, or certifications: 1. N/A 2. N/A 3. N/A 4. N/A 5. N/A 6. N/A |
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Essential Functions: Provide a list of essential functions for this position. Example: Transports boxes weighing up to 60 pounds.
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