Laboratory Shift Chemist

Date: Apr 20, 2026

Location:

AUSTIN, TX

Job Title
Chemist III

Agency
Dept of State Health Services

Department
NBS/Med Screening QI/Test Supp

Posting Number
16098

Closing Date
05/04/2026

Salary
$5,434.39 - $6,249.55 per month (TEXAS-B-21)

Shift
Regular Weekend Day (First days)

Full Time / Part Time
Full time

FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt
Nonexempt

Job Location Address
1100 W 49TH ST (DBGL), Austin, TX

Essential Job Functions (EJFs)

Performs high-volume, highly complex LC‑MS/MS analysis on neonatal screening specimens, including sample extraction, preparation of internal standards, and test solutions.

Monitors and documents analytical testing and specimen flow, collating and filing electronic and raw results according to DSHS record‑retention policies.

Performs high-volume sampling of filter paper specimens, standards, and controls, determining specimen acceptability and preserving samples per protocol.

Conducts routine and specialized preventive maintenance of complex equipment, troubleshooting, calibration verifications, and record‑keeping of maintenance logs.

Evaluates and interprets complex data, identifies reporting issues, and releases final results using the Newborn Screening laboratory information management system.

Facilitates workflow through teamwork, communicates abnormal results to Clinical Care Coordination staff for same-day follow-up, and manages assigned work to meet testing and reporting timelines.

Participates in quality control review, proficiency testing, specimen workload tallies, and supply inventory, assisting with procedure development for specimen processing.

Performs duties related to biosafety, waste disposal, housekeeping, and equipment safety checks, maintaining compliance with DSHS Laboratory, local, state, and federal guidelines.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

Laboratory and clinical chemistry principles, quality control, and LC‑MS/MS techniques.

Laboratory safety and sample‑handling procedures.

Effective oral and written communication.

Following written and verbal instructions, and interacting effectively with staff.

Working collaboratively in a high‑volume team environment.

Leadership and team‑building through positive work‑ethic example.

Accurate record‑keeping and adherence to standard operating procedures.

Application of aseptic techniques with infectious material.

Independently conducting testing, interpreting results, and prioritizing tasks.

Problem‑solving, equipment troubleshooting, and training of co‑workers.

Preparation of diagnostic reagents and controls, and management of laboratory instruments.

Computer proficiency for word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and results reporting.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in chemical, biological, or clinical laboratory science, or medical technology.

Experience analyzing human samples with complex analytical techniques, including mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography‑mass spectrometry.

Preferred experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting LC‑MS/MS instruments.

Knowledge of quality assurance and the ability to make independent technical decisions.

Additional Information

Hepatitis B and Tetanus/Diphtheria immunizations required; high hepatitis exposure risk.

Personal protective equipment provided (face shield, gloves, lab coat, safety glasses).

Position includes regular work on Saturdays and qualifies for weekend shift differential.

Functional color vision assessment administered at interview.

Position may require alternate shift patterns or locations for disaster response or continuity of operations.

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