Chemist II

DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.

Employee Benefits:

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.

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Brief Job Description: 

Performs routine chemical testing and related duties in the Environmental Chemistry Unit's Inorganic Chemistry Group under the moderate guidance of a Chemist IV Team Lead and with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement. Rotates as needed to perform testing procedures with the Potable Water Analysis, Food and Wastewater, and Metals Analysis Teams. Performs chemical analyses of drinking water, food products, and other environmental samples according to standard operating procedures (SOPs). Operates flow injection, ion chromatography (IC), inductively coupled plasma (ICP) instruments and other analysis related equipment. Performs pre-analysis and sample preparation procedures. Prepares standard and reagent solutions. Performs routine maintenance, routine troubleshooting procedures, and cleaning procedures including washing reusable glassware. Maintains complete, accurate, and timely documentation as required. Peforms analyst initial data review and quality control evaluation and compiles data report package. Follows safety guidelines, properly disposes of wastes, and performs other duties as assigned. Follows all HHS and DSHS Policies and Procedures. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory.    

Essential Job Functions (EJFs): 

EJF 1. Performs routine and complex analyses of drinking water, environmental, and food samples with strict adherence to the required method SOP, quality control, and recordkeeping procedures. Cooperates and communicates effectively with coworkers and Team Lead concerning the workload and assigned testing. Evaluates sample suitability including preservation and holding time requirements so that improperly preserved samples are identified and holding times are not exceeded. Completes all calculations, documentation, and initial data review. Records observations, data, calculations, and results concurrent with performance of each task. Performs data entry accurately. Analyzes proficiency samples like routine samples. Assists the Team Lead in investigating causes for analytical problems, implementing solutions, and documenting corrections. Prepares and labels all reagents used in analysis procedures in an accurate and timely manner. Requests supplies and chemicals as necessary so that sample analyses are not delayed. 50% 

EJF 2. Operates analytical instruments used to perform assigned analysis procedures as directed in written SOPs. Confirms acceptable instrument performance before analyzing samples. Monitors instrument performance and quality control/sample results during the analysis run and takes appropriate actions as needed. Performs and documents instrument preventive maintenance and ensures that all instrument maintenance, changes, and repairs including actions performed by service technicians are documented. Understands operation and analysis software used by each instrument. Understands instrument theory and mechanics sufficiently to recognize operational problems and to work with Team Lead or senior chemist to resolve problems. 20% 

EJF 3.  Read and follow all policies, procedures and guidelines of the Quality Manual, USEPA Drinking Water Certification Manual, The NELAC Institute (TNI), reference methods, and administrative, analytical and quality assurance Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Participate in training. Performs Initial Demonstration of Capability before working independently on samples.  Maintain proficiency for assigned methods by performing Continuing Demonstration of Capability, Method Detection Limit and Proficiency Testing samples.  Responds to any internal or external audit findings as responsible or assigned. Maintains complete, timely and accurate records of all procedures performed.  10% 

EJF 4. Performs sample receiving, preservation, and pre-analysis testing procedures as required by applicable SOPs, quality control and recordkeeping procedures. Maintains clean, organized work area as part of good contamination control practices. Maintains complete, legible, and organized records including observations of any non-routine characteristics or occurrences during the preparation or analysis process. Corrects written records with a single line through the error, dates, and initials the correction. Informs Team Lead or designated substitute in a timely manner when problems occur and takes appropriate actions after consultation with the Team Lead.  Assist the Team Lead with personnel technical training.  Provides Team Lead feedback on training progress.  Reports problems promptly and take  appropriate actions in consultation with the Team Lead.  10% 

EJF 5.  Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. Minimize exposure of all personal to chemical hazards by proper use of personal protective equipment, management practices, use of fume hoods and proper safety practices in the laboratory. Read and follow the Chemical Hygiene Plan and SOPs.  Properly label all chemicals.  Follow safety data sheet (SDS) recommendations.  Wears safety glasses and lab coats at all times in designated areas. Properly identifies, labels, records and disposes of wastes and samples.  Keeps work area clean and organized to reduce contamination.  Attend all required safety training.  Communicate with others immediately any safety problems that arise.  5% 

EJF 6.  Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. 5% 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): 

Knowledge of analytical chemistry principles and techniques 

Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance principles and practices 

Knowledge of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) analysis procedures 

Knowledge of The NELAC Institute TNI Standard and ISO requirements 

Knowledge of United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) analysis procedures 

Knowledge of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) analysis procedures 

Knowledge of American Association of Analytical Chemists (AOAC) analysis procedures 

Knowledge of laboratory instrumentation used for environmental analysis 

Knowledge of food analysis procedures 

Skill in solving instrumental and analytical problems 

Skill in operating AA, FIA, IC and ICP instruments  

Skill in the interpretation of analytical data 

Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products 

Skill in safe use of laboratory chemicals and equipment 

Ability to build effective working relationships 

Ability to communicate effectively 

Ability to accurately follow detailed instructions 

Ability to pay attention to detail 

Ability to make well-reasoned and timely decisions 

Ability to organize tasks to achieve timely completions 

Ability to learn and apply new analysis techniques  

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: 

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria: 

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor’s degree or higher in chemistry, environmental sciences, biological sciences, or physical sciences. 

Laboratory experience required 

Additional Information: 

N/A 

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.

Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, and Work Eligibility:

• The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
• Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
• DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.  Download the I-9 form