Chemist II

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Performs high complexity analysis of clinical specimens for exposure to chemical threat agents in support of the CDC's Public Health Emergency Preparedness Cooperative Agreement. Performs quantitative chemical analysis and interprets highly complex and varied analytical chemistry procedures for inorganic and organic substances. Conducts specimen preparation and analytical procedures for the detection and monitoring of trace levels of chemical agents associated with, but not limited to chemical terrorism and incidental exposures. Chemical threats include, but are not limited to blisterin agents, cyanide, heavy metals, nerve agents, ricin, and Lewisite. Performs analytical procedures using LC-MS/MS, ICP-MS, GC/MS, LC-ICP-MS, and/or HRMS.

Develop, validate, and implement CDC approved chemical toxic agent methods in the areas of chemical terrorism and biomonitoring/biosurveillance. Perform scientific mathematical calculations, prepare reports, and effectively communicate data/results to colleagues and stakeholders. Strictly adhere to and maintain quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) protocols and all safety regulations. Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of analytical instrumentation and equipment. Learn and utilize LIMS and other software used by the Public Health Laboratory. Work closely with senior chemists on method selection, development, and improvement projects. Maintain a clean lab and work environment. Monitor supply inventories and expendables. Periodically attend meetings, trainings, and conferences related to work.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

• State Minimum Requirements: A bachelor's degree in chemistry and experience in a laboratory setting related to the area of employment, including experience in operating and interpreting test results from complex analytical instrumentation such as gas, ion or liquid chromatographs or atomic absorption spectrophotometers
   
• or a bachelor's degree in the natural sciences with academic credits in chemistry and experience in a laboratory setting related to the area of employment, including experience in operating and interpreting test results from complex analytical instrumentation such as gas, ion or liquid chromatographs or atomic absorption spectrophotometers.
• A doctorate in chemistry may be substituted for the required work experience.

Institutions of Higher Learning must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
A bachelor's degree in chemistry and three (3) years of relevant work experience in a laboratory setting related to the area of employment, including experience in Mass Spectrometry. Experience using GC/MSD, LC-MS/MS, ICP-MS, and/or HRMS.

OR a bachelor's degree in the natural sciences with a minimum of sixteen (16) academic credits in chemistry and five (5) years of relevant work experience in a laboratory setting related to the area of employment, including experience in Mass Spectrometry. Experience using GC/MSD, LC-MS/MS, ICP-MS, and/or HRMS.

Ability to train personnel, work extended hours/weekends/holidays during emergency situations and exercises, make visual observations of specimens, reports, etc. Must be able to follow and adhere to all safety protocols. Ability to bend, climb, and stoop in order to work on laboratory instrumentation and equipment. Must be able to lift 30 lbs.

Applicants indicating college credit or degree(s) on the application may upload an unofficial copy of the transcript as an attachment to the application. Please note that the agency will require an official, certified copy of the transcript or diploma prior to hiring.
 

Preferred Qualifications

A master's degree in chemistry with at least one (1) year of experience working with analytical instrumentation and equipment including one or more of the following: LC-MS/MS, GC/MSD, ICP-MS, and/or HRMS with emphasis on analytical chemistry.

 A strong background in Mass Spectrometry (MS), method development, separation science, instrument software, and computers is highly desired. Preference given to those with toxicology and clinical analytical chemistry experience. Experience with HRMS highly desired.

Additional Comments

DRIVING RECORD: If this position requires the applicant to possess a valid driver’s license to operate a state vehicle or personal vehicle, any applicant being considered in the final stages of selection for the position will be required to provide a certified copy of a 10-year driving record.
 
 SC DPH is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employing agency. We are committed to a diverse workforce. SC DPH does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.
The South Carolina Department of Public Health offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes:
 
• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs
• REMOTE WORK: The option to work partially remote or adjusted work hours may be available after six (6) months of employment for approved positions