Review Vacancy
AgencyEnvironmental Conservation, Department of
TitleResearch Scientist 2 (Chemistry)
Occupational CategoryI.T. Engineering, Sciences
Bargaining UnitPS&T - Professional, Scientific, and Technical (PEF)
Salary RangeFrom $68238 to $86398 Annually
Minimum Qualifications Candidates must have a Bachelor’s Degree and three years of professional research experience in an analytical laboratory setting (e.g., biology, chemistry, biochemistry, environmental chemistry); or a Master’s Degree in the appropriate field and two years of such experience; or a doctorate in the appropriate field. All candidates must have experience analyzing environmental and/or biota samples, (water, sediment, biological tissues, etc.) for organic contaminants (e.g., PFCs, organochlorine pesticides, and PCBs). Candidates must possess a strong background in course work and practical experience in laboratory chemistry to qualify for the Chemistry specialty.
Preferred Qualifications: PhD in analytical, organic or environmental chemistry with experience in research evidenced by peer reviewed publications. Candidates should have a strong background in scientific experimental design, assay development and procedure evaluation for data collection, evaluation and analysis. Candidates must possess strong writing skills including the ability to create and maintain scientific documentation, the ability to review the work of others in a constructive manner while upholding high standards, and the ability to research new analytical methods. Specific skills include knowledge of chemical characteristics of and standard methods for the analysis of common contaminants in biological tissue samples (previous experience with quantitative analysis of PFCs or similar chemicals in animal tissue is particularly desirable), knowledge of principles and practices of laboratory quality assurance and quality control, and practical knowledge of statistical analysis. Additional desirable skills include experience with computer based laboratory information management systems (LIMS), knowledge of laboratory safety practices and procedures, experience in conducting audits of laboratory practices, writing and reviewing quality assurance plans, and auditing research practices.
Duties Description Serve as the analytical chemist and scientist for determining the presence and significance of PFCs and other CECs found in fish and wildlife collected in New York State. Work as part of a team to identify threat to public health and environmental protection from chemical contaminants, evaluate the potential toxicity and ecological impact of CECs, and monitor PFC and other CECs in the ecosystem in support of regulations and management of these contaminants in New York State. Oversee and participate in the conduct of laboratory analyses of environmental samples for CECs (e.g., PFCs, pharmaceuticals). Prepare and maintain laboratory SOPs and ensure all SOPs are followed by staff participating in the CECs analysis. Ensure that the appropriate quality assurance/quality control measures are implemented and consistently followed. Interpret and prepare data reports for the Analytical Service Unit Leader. Assist the Unit Leader with analysis of other contaminants on an as-needed basis.
Investigate and develop production methods for analysis of contaminants of emerging concern in animal tissue:
The primary responsibility of the incumbent is to research and develop reliable methods and procedures for determining ecologically relevant CEC levels in the biota in New York State. The incumbent is expected to actively collaborate with academic and other government laboratories to establish in-house capability for quantification of contaminants including, but not limited to, PFCs in response to New York State regulatory and management needs. Specific responsibilities include:
• Develop quantitative methods for CECs in fish and wildlife tissue samples
• Prepare detailed SOPs with absolute clarity for each new analyte
• Set up the laboratory with the established methods and procedures for producing top quality data at a scale sufficient to accommodate requirements from the state-wide environmental monitoring program.
Analyze fish and wildlife tissue samples for PFCs and other contaminants of emerging concern:
After the analytical methods and procedures are validated for a specific analyte, the incumbent is responsible for overseeing the data production process from receiving, processing fish and wildlife samples to extraction and quantification of the analyte, as well as final data analyses and reporting. Specific responsibilities include:
• Train technical personnel involved in CEC analysis and ensure all procedures are strictly followed
• Maintain laboratory equipment at optimal working condition
• Regularly review, and update whenever necessary, laboratory SOPs
• Provide high standard quality control and quality assurance for data production to meet the requirement of state regulatory agencies
• Complete and submit reports for analytical results.
Support ecotoxicology and conservation studies conducted by fellow scientists within the Bureau of Habitat (BOH):
The incumbent will participate in the planning of studies or projects conducted by fellow scientists at BOH that require assistance from the Analytical Service Unit and provide scientific support in chemistry and contaminant analysis. The incumbent is expected to publish study results in peer-reviewed scientific journals independently and collaboratively.
Technical and scientific advising:
Serve as technical and scientific advisor in chemistry for state agencies and research institutes who are participating in the study and management of CECs in New York.
Additional Comments Use of personal protection equipment, including a respirator, will be required.
Actual work schedule, duties, and travel requirements may vary and will be discussed at the interview.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Email Address PostingResponses@dec.ny.gov
Address
Notes on ApplyingEMAIL OR MAIL YOUR RESUME AND A COMPLETED EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION FORM # s1000 http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/administration_pdf/empapppart1s1000.pdf TO THE ABOVE. BE SURE TO PUT (17-378) ON YOUR RESUME AND APPLICATION OR IT MAY NOT BE ACCEPTED.