GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF CLASS

The CHEMIST 1 provides accurate and timely detection and identification of chemical and radiochemical contaminants and constituents on a variety of environmental, agricultural, and biological samples by performing standard tests and procedures.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

This is the first level of a three-level series. The emphasis of this class is on performing standard chemical and physical tests and procedures on a production basis. It is distinguished from the higher level by the absence of performing technically complex tests and procedures whose results require more than routine interpretation and correlation with other information. At this level employees generally do not exercise independent scientific judgment in the interpretation of data nor make recommendations on the application of the findings. Employees in this class may perform analyses, under supervision, requiring more complex analytical techniques.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Allocation of positions to this class will depend on the total work performed which may include one or a combination of the duties or tasks listed below.

1. Benchwork. Typical tasks: logs in sample or specimen noting date, time, and tests to be performed; prepares necessary equipment and organizes supplies and reagents; prepares samples for testing by diluting, filtering, centrifuging, digesting; performs standard chemical or radiochemical tests (i.e. spectrophotometric analyses for phospates, chemical oxygen demand; titrametric analyses for dissolved oxygen and chloride; or other analyses, as appropriate, such as color, turbidity, particulate matter, moisture, or carbon), which may require standard interpretation and correlation with other information; may assist in performing analysis requiring complex analytical techniques; runs quality control samples with known values, to determine if procedures and results are within acceptable limits; calculates numerical results based on calibrations; may collect, or assist in collecting, samples for analysis.
2. Reports. Typical tasks: enters results of test in appropriate log or computer; completes appropriate test result form and notifies supervisor in cases of significant test findings; completes daily and monthly reports including number and types of tests performed; maintains accurate and up-to-date records detailing quality control procedures used and results for all tests.
3. Miscellaneous. Typical tasks: may perform routine calibration and minor maintenance of laboratory equipment; informs supervisor of inventory and supply needs; may testify on the methodology used and the results of tests conducted when those results are evidence in cases of litigation; keeps current in field by reading literature and attending symposiums and workshops; maintains knowledge of general laboratory operations.

RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS

Employees in this class may have occasional in-person or telephone contact with agency staff to exchangeinformation or discuss test results. They may have infrequent contact by phone with governmental agencies, industrial and business representatives, and other organizations to discuss issues pertaining to a sample or specimen.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Employees in this class work under general supervision of a laboratory supervisor or other administrative superior. Test data, results, reports, and any standard interpretation are reviewed routinely. Records are reviewed for quality control. Guidelines used in performance of duties include standard operating procedures, established methodology manuals, technical references, and applicable State and Federal regulations.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Positions are found in central and remote locations throughout State government (e.g., general government agencies, natural resource agencies, higher education institutions, or hospitals,). They require the willingness to work within the environment associated with the position's location (usually a laboratory).

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Three years of experience performing chemical tests and procedures; OR
• A Bachelor's degree in Chemistry.