CHEMIST I

CHEMIST I

Anticipated Starting Salary: $58,700

Job Summary: The Chemist I is an entry-level professional responsible for performing routine chemical and analytical testing to support the mission of the assigned state agency. Under supervision, this position ensures that laboratory tests are conducted accurately, safely, and in compliance with standard procedures and regulatory requirements.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Conduct standardized chemical, biological, or environmental tests on water, air, soil, food, pharmaceuticals, forensic evidence, or other sample types depending on agency function.
• Utilize analytical techniques such as titration, pH measurement, spectrophotometry, chromatography (e.g., GC or HPLC), and gravimetric analysis.
• Prepare reagents, solutions, and standards according to established procedures.
• Document all test results clearly and accurately in laboratory notebooks, electronic systems, and reports.
• Maintain accurate chain-of-custody and sample tracking logs.
• Assist with preparing technical reports or summaries for internal and external use.
• Clean and maintain laboratory instruments and workspaces in accordance with quality and safety guidelines.
• Perform basic instrument calibrations and routine troubleshooting under supervision.
• Ensure compliance with agency quality assurance/control protocols and good laboratory practices (GLP).
• Assist with internal audits and sample documentation for regulatory compliance.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Maintains accuracy in sample handling, calculations, and data entry.
• Prioritizes tasks efficiently to meet reporting deadlines and testing schedules.
• Identifies errors, inconsistencies, or unusual results and reports them appropriately.
• Demonstrates reliability, confidentiality, and ethical conduct in all work activities.

Minimum Qualifications:

• At least six months of experience in chemistry, chemical testing, laboratory testing, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry or other related sciences.
• At least one year experience in the characterization of toxicologically significant compounds within environmental matrices.
• Hands on experience in operating analytical instruments such as LC/MS, ICP-MS, and Ion Chromatography.
• Proficiency in sample preparation, including matrix extraction and clean-up methodologies.
• At least one year of experience working under ISO 17025:2017 quality system requirements.
• Experience with document management software such as Ideagen Quality Management Software, formerly known as Qualtrax, is highly desirable.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.