Job Information
State of Montana Analytical Chemist in Bozeman, Montana
The Montana Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for an Analytical Chemistin the Bozeman Analytical Lab located at Montana State University. First review of candidates will be May 17, 2024. The mission of the Department of Agriculture is to protect producers and consumers, and to enhance and develop agriculture and allied industries. Job Overview: Be responsible for analyzing a variety of samples in support of MDA programs and MAES needs. Included are feed and fertilizer samples to verify label claims and contaminants, forage samples to verify nutritional content, hemp samples to determine cannabinoid content and a variety of sample matrices to determine pesticide residues. As the Analytical Chemist, you will: * Analyze organic and inorganic compounds to identify and quantify various constituents. * Prepare samples for analysis using heat, chemical catalysts, various extraction methods, or microwave digestion. * Analyze and report data using advanced instrument software packages. * Interpret and verify analytical data and validate results by performing and documenting the proper quality assurance/quality controls. * Operate, maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot a variety of technically scientific instruments and analytical methods. * May be responsible for preparing standards and specifications for processes and tests. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: * Extensive knowledge of analytical, organic, and inorganic chemistry; physics to perform complex and professional analytical work. * Considerable knowledge in method development, designing ruggedness test, statistical evaluation in order to develop, evaluate and make recommendations for new methods. * Working knowledge of laboratory record keeping and QA/QC requirements to produce reliable and defensible analytical data. * Working knowledge of pertinent state and federal laws and rules and agricultural practices to understand the mission of the division. * Knowledge, skills, and ability to operate laboratory equipment, complex analytical instruments, and a variety of data acquisition/processing software. * Ability to evaluate analytical and statistical data. * Knowledge in interpretation and confirmation of analytical results, program QA/QC requirements and the ability to write laboratory reports to accomplish assigned duties. * Requires the ability to coordinate laboratory technician activities and establish good working relationships with internal and external customers. * Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Physical and Environmental Demands: * Works in a laboratory environment that includes exposure to odors, fumes, noise, and dust and transports heavy gas cylinders and lifts cases of solvents and other chemicals using knowledge of laboratory safety policy. * Work is physically demanding, requiring the ability to work standing for long periods of time. * Handles chemicals and samples which may be toxic, carcinogenic, flammable, corrosive, or all of the above, on a daily basis to perform analytical work using knowledge of chemical properties, toxicity. * Requires the regular use of protective equipment as well as compliance with OSHA requirements and laboratory safety policy. * Walking on hard surfaces. * Requires the ability to work standing for long periods of time. Minimum Qualifications: * Bachelor’s degree in chemical or biological sciences. * Three years of related laboratory experience. * Other combinations of education or experience may be substituted. Application Requirements: * * Cover letter * Resume * Copy of Transcripts * Benefits: Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation package! Upon date of hire, employees working at least half-time for more than six months are eligible for state paid premiums toward employee “core” medical, dental, and basic life insurance coverage. Employees earn 15 working days of annual leave, 12 days of sick leave and 10-11 paid holidays each year. Membership in a Retirement System - vesting criteria applies. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) – Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the PSLF. * Title: *Analytical Chemist Location: Bozeman Requisition ID: 24141186