Supervising Chemist

JOB SUMMARY

Supervises, assists and trains laboratory personnel with the analysis of various sample types following approved EPA methodology. Manages, evaluates and reviews data, staffing, equipment and resources to validate data quality objectives and regulatory compliance. Reviews and validates data from gravimetric, volumetric and physical test methods and from data generated from advanced instrumentation such as Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP), ICP Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), Gas Chromatography (GC), GC Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), Ultra high performance liquid chromatography, (UHPLC), Liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Flow injection analyzers. Manages projects for both internal and external clients including quoting, reporting and invoice generation. Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

- Provides analytical data, technical support and data evaluation to other District departments and external agencies.

- Analyzes and maintains quality control/quality assurance data on samples from advanced instrumentation, chemical, bacteriological and biological procedures.

- Supervises and directs the various Analytical Services staff to ensure adherence to regulatory methods and standard operating procedures (SOP) and District policies. Evaluates performance, coaches, advises and provides on-the-job instruction. Assists in the hiring and promotion process as required. Directs quality control and quality assurance on analyses performed by subordinates.

- Reviews and validates data for method compliance and compliance under the NELAP Standard for data generated by gravimetric, volumetric and physical test methods and from data generated from advanced instrumentation such as Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP), ICP Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), Gas Chromatography (GC), GC Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), Ultra high performance liquid chromatography, (UHPLC), Liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Flow injection analyzers.

- Checks that the work of various analytical services staff has been carried out to specification. Reviews accuracy and timeliness of reporting. Ensures that records are maintained.

- Evaluates the analytical process for correct functioning. Detects abnormal operation of laboratory analytical equipment and implements necessary corrective action, including requesting maintenance and repair of equipment and instruments.

- Plans short- and long-term objectives. Sets priorities for utilizing resources (people and materials) to meet objectives. Makes changes in work assignments and schedules to meet varying workloads, deadlines or changes in personnel.

- Encourages cooperation among team members. Creates team spirit and sustains the interest of the team in completing projects.

- Provides spoken and written information on laboratory problems and issues to management and staff. Prepares and presents lectures about new methods, procedures and instrumentation to other governmental agencies and educational facilities.

- Keeps abreast of new systems, methods or processes. Manages special projects in conjunction with other environmental agencies.

- Facilitates new ideas from peers and subordinates to improve processes and generate solutions to new method development, software application utilization, data accessibility and information sharing.

- Critically examines information, equipment and software programs for ease of use and applicability and makes recommendations for purchase after evaluation. Tests and validates new equipment and methods prior to use in the laboratory.

- Checks that the work of Chemists and other various Analytical Services staff has been carried out to specification. Reviews data for accuracy and method compliance prior to reporting to supervision. Verifies that all records and logs are maintained and accurate.

- Works with the Manager of Analytical Services to evaluate the analytical processes. Assists with streamlining analytical procedures to make efficient while maintaining method compliance.

- Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION

Candidate must possess a Bachelor's degree, preferably in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science or closely related field.

EXPERIENCE

- Candidate must possess five (5) years of progressively responsible analytical laboratory experience, with at least three (3) years of experience utilizing Advanced Instrumentation such as ICP, GFAA, Auto Analyzers and/or advanced chemical and biological techniques.

- Extensive knowledge needed of advanced instrumentation and interpretation of data produced, chemical theories, laboratory methods and effective supervisory practices.

- Previous supervisory experience preferred.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

- The department is staffed a minimum of 50 hours per week; therefore, all employees are required to work a rotational schedule, including off shift and weekend hours. Working hours may also include consecutive weekends and/or holidays and may change on short notice.

- Some laboratory projects can be event driven or part of an emergency response and scheduling must be coordinated between multiple departments and may also be dependent upon the client's needs.

LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATIONS

- Candidate must possess a valid driver's license with a driving record in accordance with the District's acceptable guidelines.

- Possession of a valid Class III State of Ohio Wastewater Analyst Certificate is required at the time of appointment or within 30 months from the effective start date.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

- Candidate must possess exceptional critical thinking and analytical skills and effective oral and written communication, leadership and people skills in order to instruct others and establish and maintain effective working relationships.

- Candidate must possess the ability to perform quantitative and qualitative chemical and biological analyses using advanced instrumentation. Ability to critically evaluate information and ideas, analyze data and make appropriate recommendations. Candidates must be proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel or similar software packages and report writing software.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

During the course of performing the essential functions of this position, the employee must be able to compile, copy, compare, compute, analyze, synthesize, negotiate, instruct, communicate and coordinate. Ability to communicate while exhibiting strong interpersonal skills is required. Physical work will need to be performed, such as standing, sitting, walking and talking. Candidates must have the ability to occasionally lift and move laboratory equipment or sampling equipment weighing up to 45 pounds. Position will require visual demands of near acuity, depth perception, far acuity and accommodation. For safety reasons hearing is required.

Pay Range: USD, Commensurate with Experience

$76,768 - $95,960

Our Employee Benefits & Wellness Programs
We offer a comprehensive employee benefits package including Health Insurance Coverage, Various Retirement Planning Options (Ohio Public Employee Retirement System and Deferred Compensation Plans), Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Free Parking at our facilities, Corporate Discounts, and more! We also have an active Health & Wellness Program that promotes a life/work balance.

NEORSD supports the use of hybrid work as a way to help attract and retain talented individuals in public service, increase worker productivity and better prepares the agency to operate during emergencies. This position may be authorized for hybrid work. hybrid eligibility will be discussed during the interview process.

DISCLAIMER: The information outlined in this job description indicates the general nature and type of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to provide a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities or competencies required of employees within this classification.