Chemist 1

Are you eager to apply your chemistry expertise to work protecting the environment around you? If you excel in conducting professional laboratory analyses of various substances to identify environmentally significant components using specialized equipment and established methods, we have an exciting opportunity for you. 

The Department of Environmental Protection is looking for a Chemist 1 who possesses strong analytical abilities and a passion for teamwork. This position with our Organic, Radiation, and Biological Services Division offers hands-on experience with meaningful laboratory work that aims to positively influence communities and the environment in Pennsylvania. Enhance your skills and further your career with us! 

This position analyzes and interprets data from environmental samples to ensure reliable results. Work includes organizing samples for efficient processing, preparing necessary reagents, standards, spikes, and other quality control measures. The primary focus will be on analyzing Gross Alpha, Gross Beta, Radium-228, and utilizing a Gas Flow Proportional Counter. As a Chemist 1, you will perform the following duties: 

• Sample Analysis: Organize, prepare, and test samples; evaluate accuracy, precision, or recovery of completed work; and write preliminary reports
• Equipment Use: Conduct preventative maintenance on analytical instruments, coordinate with service technicians for repairs, and troubleshoot issues keep the instruments functioning effectively
• Quality Responsibilities: Perform, record, and review Quality Assurance and Quality Control studies; ensure all work and processes comply with current methods, procedures, and standards  
• Process Improvement: Assist with adapting, validating, and documenting analytical methods under the direction of senior staff
• Training Support: Teach analysts and interns correct methodologies; cross train to learn work performed by other sections  
• Data Management: Maintain a detailed laboratory notebook to assist in data interpretation and ensure proper chain of custody; enter, verify, and backup laboratory data in recordkeeping systems

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• This position may require travel.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable. 
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree in chemistry; or
• A bachelor’s degree that includes 30 credits in chemistry or biochemistry.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree/credits.

Condition of Employment:

• This position requires possession of a valid Pennsylvania Driver's License.

Other Requirements:

• You must possess and maintain a REAL ID or passport for this position. Proof of possession will be needed at the time of a conditional offer of employment.
• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines. 
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. 
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
• All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant’s own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.

Veterans: 

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
• Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions. 
• Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
• You must provide complete and accurate information or:
  • your score may be lower than deserved.
  • you may be disqualified.
• You may only apply/test once for this posting.
• Your results will be provided via email.