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Nature of Work
Under limited supervision, performs professional work at the supervisory
and/or highly specialized advanced level coordinating the work of chemists
and support staff in a laboratory setting and/or conducting complex chemical
laboratory tests and analyses on raw, natural or processed substances using
chemical and physical laboratory procedures in order to determine composition
or deviation from standards. Develops analytical procedures or standards
for compliance with regulations governing health, safety and purity. May
be exposed to hazardous or unknown substances. Assignments may be made in
the areas of construction materials, chemical waste and pesticides, preventive
health and water pollution. Performs related work as required.
Distinguishing Characteristics
May be distinguished by supervision of chemists and support staff including
review of laboratory test reports and operating records, and by developing
procedures and standards, and non standard tests and analyses. May serve
as an expert in a highly specialized area of organic chemistry involving the
use of automated equipment or involving the formulation of specialized techniques,
quality assurance, definitions, and procedures and standards.
Examples of Work
Plans and directs the activities of laboratory chemists in the performance
of complex tests on a variety of materials to determine composition, purity
and compliance with legal standards.
Reviews and approves sample analysis reports submitted by subordinate personnel
to ensure accuracy, procedures compliance, and to recommend changes or administrative
follow-up.
Performs direct chemical analysis work similar to subordinate chemists;
evaluates problematic sample results to determine error or unusual substance.
Evaluates and implements alternative test procedures and new techniques;
develops test standards and guideline material for staff use.
Prepares reports on test results; may prepare reports on unit activities;
recommends major equipment purchase and priorities.
Advises laboratory staff on proper procedures, problems and complex test
interpretation.
Operates a variety of standard chemical laboratory equipment and may calibrate
and make or arrange minor repairs.
Coordinates laboratory tests with field technicians and other units; consults
with other units on technical problems relating to chemical analysis or test
findings.
Knowledge, Skills
and Abilities
Knowledge of the theories, principles, methods, and accepted practices
associated with chemical analysis.
Knowledge of advance laboratory practices and procedures, and of safety
measures used to handle samples, supplies and equipment.
Knowledge of statistics common to chemical analysis and reporting.
Knowledge of general supervisory practices and policies.
Ability to select, perform, and train others in chemical tests and sequenced
analyses, in data verification and interpretation of findings.
Ability to locate and correct problems with samples and tests, to prepare
accurate reports, and to explain corrective measures to other chemists.
Ability to analyze laboratory procedures, decide on the best alternatives,
and to recommend improvements to individual tests and sequence processes.
Ability to read and comprehend detailed instruction manuals and procedure
manuals, and to use a variety of sources to develop modifications and improvements
in procedures.
Ability to explain chemical tests and procedures to lay persons, both on
a routine basis and under cross examination in a court of law.
Ability to communicate with others, both verbally and in writing, and to
maintain favorable work relationships and public contacts.
Minimum
Qualifications [Top]
Training:
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a
major in the basic or natural sciences and eighteen (18) semester hours (27
quarter hours) in chemistry.
Training:
FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, OFFICE OF LABORATORY
SERVICES: Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university
plus eighteen (18) semester hours (27 quarter hours) in chemistry.
Experience:
Three years of full-time or equivalent part-time paid experience in benchwork
in a laboratory.
Established: 8/20/92
Revised: 12/12/2007
Effective: 12/12/2007