Chemist III

Applications Accepted from: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

Section: Regulatory Compliance

Location: 1770 Sidney Street, Houston, Texas

Workdays & Hours: Monday - Friday, 7 a.m.- 4 p.m.

• Subject to change*

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Performs highly technical chemical analysis according to clearly prescribed procedures and laboratory techniques. Performs Volatile Organic Carbon analyses using a GC/GC-Mass Spectrophotometer of raw and finished water for regulated and unregulated environmental pollutants as set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Conducts advanced testing of environmental samples utilizing highly sophisticated laboratory instrumentation. Prepares standard solutions and reagents for use in chemical testing. Reviews and interprets test results; prepares and distributes required analytical test reports according to published test methods or operating procedures.

Maintains inventory: orders laboratory chemicals, equipment, and supplies. Handles instrument troubleshooting and maintenance; make minor repairs; diagnoses and corrects instrument software problems. Assist in revising existing standard operating procedures and developing new analytical procedures in an effort to expand laboratory testing capability. Performs research and special technical assignments as assigned.

Oversees and directs the operation of the LIMS system in the laboratory. Develops, modes, and maintains forms and interfaces for data entry into LIMS. Creates specific report formats as per NELAC or contract specification guidelines.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The working conditions are generally comfortable air-conditioned laboratory environment. The position occasionally requires stooping, bending, or light lifting.

There may be exposed to significant levels of heat, cold, moisture, and air pollution. The position may involve periodic exposure to chemical substances and physical trauma of a minor nature such as cuts, bruises, and minor burns.

This is a Department of Houston Public Works Emergency Management position at the Tier II Level.EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Requires a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a closely related field, along with a detailed knowledge of water and wastewater treatment practices as well as Federal and State regulations concerning environmental and potable water quality. Should be skilled in the use of personal computers, equipped with commercially available software, for data interpretation, manipulation and report preparation.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Two (2) years of analytical experience, at least one of which involved use of sophisticated electronic instrumentation, in a laboratory or closely related facility are required.

A Master's degree in Chemistry or a closely related field may be substituted for the experience requirement.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS 

None Preference will be given to applicants with experience in Volatile Organic Carbon analyses, GC/GC Mass Spec, and experience working in a NELAC accredited laboratory.

Preference will also be given to applicants with excellent written and oral communication skills.

Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED      None

However, the Department may administer a skill assessment evaluation.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION     Yes  

If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

SALARY INFORMATION                

Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.  The salary range for this position is:

Pay Grade 21 

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during posting opening and closing dates shown. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov.

To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or please call 832.393.6017.

"If you need special services or accommodations, call 832-393-6017. (TTY 7-1-1)

"If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.

Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, with specific instructions, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.

Must be able to pass a criminal background check, obtain and maintain federally mandated security clearances where required.

EOE Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.