Chemist - Trace

PURPOSE AND SCOPE:

Performs pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases of laboratory testing, using manual procedures as well as operating various laboratory equipment and automated analyzer systems.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Reviews and complies with the Code of Business Conduct and both all applicable departmental/company policies & procedures, and all local, state, and federal laws & regulations.
• Works on assignments requiring considerable judgment and initiative.
• Performs routine laboratory protocols; pipetting, measuring, and pouring of samples.
• May perform principal duties and responsibilities of all levels of Laboratory Assistants.
• Responsible for daily/routine instrumental and equipment maintenance and troubleshooting, under general supervision.
• Works with service engineers during extensive troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, or service calls.
• Follows the laboratory’s established policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory’s established acceptable levels of performance.
• Under general supervision by Lab Supervisor/Manager, preforms sample preparation, quality controls, instrumental preparation and calibrations, testing, data review of various clinical and environmental tests, and identification of specimens flagged for repeated analysis, as directed within departmental SOPs and applicable state and private regulatory agencies.
• Responsible for all aspects of water testing according to ELAP program.
• Approves environmental analysis results; After data review, submits clinical results to MLS or Lab Supervisor for approval.
• Documents daily, weekly, and monthly quality control and maintenance procedures as assigned.
• Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory’s established performance specifications, and report said documentation to Lab Supervisor for proper record keeping.
• Performs specimen handling for inter-laboratory tests.
• Fully understands policies and procedures prior to performing proficiency testing.
• Provides mentorship and training of Lab Assistants.
• May coordinate and assist in the work activities of Lab Assistants as directed.
• Performs routine monitoring of reagents, chemicals, equipment consumables, and other necessary lab supplies.
• May assist in potential future method development under supervision of Lab Supervisor/Manager.
• Builds stable working relationships internally.
• Complies with all laboratory safety protocols, including, but not limited to, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper laboratory techniques, disposal of biohazard, etc.   
• Assists Lab Supervisor with proper records keeping practices, as directed.
• Escalates issues to supervisor/manager for resolution, as deemed necessary.
• Assist with various projects as assigned by Lab Supervisor.
• Other duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

• The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 
• Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. and be able to sit/stand for extended periods in a laboratory environment.
• Must be able to work with clinical and environmental samples, including, but not limited to blood, urine, etc.
• Must be able to work with chemicals and/or reagents specific to laboratory testing.
• Must be able to work in a medium to high noise level.
• Business related travel – up to 25%.

SUPERVISION:

• May be responsible for the direct supervision of various levels of Lab personnel

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Biological Science required.
• Graduate Degree in Analytical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, or Biochemistry preferred.

EXPERIENCE AND REQUIRED SKILLS:

• 0 – 3 years’ related experience.
• Basic knowledge of medical laboratory testing and experience in clinical laboratory required (performing dilutions with high accuracy, pH, conductivity preferred).
• Knowledgeable of ELAP program and EPA protocols.
• Good verbal communication skills.
• Must be able to multi-task, prioritize and manage time efficiently.
• PC literacy required.
• Keen attention to detail, and ability to recognize inconsistencies, outliers, or potential sources of error.
• Ability to follow precise directions in situations requiring accuracy, speed, and efficiency.
• Prior experience with laboratory and data management systems preferred.
• Experience in elemental analysis (ICP or Atomic Absorption, ICP-MS preferred).
• Experience with liquid chromatography (i.e., HPLC) techniques (Ion Chromatography preferred).