Position Function:
The Mississippi State Chemical Laboratory (MSCL) is searching for an advanced laboratory analytical level analyst that performs highly technical and advanced scientific and/or instrumental analysis procedures in a specialized area, utilizing both standard and non-routine methodologies and procedures. This analyst will conduct analyses that rely on advanced instrumentation and complex computer software and develop and implement complex analytical techniques. This position is distinguished from the Laboratory Analyst II by the independent and self-directed nature of the work and by its required advanced knowledge in areas of inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, or microbiology.
Salary Grade: 13
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
The Mississippi State Chemical Laboratory (MSCL) is a state-appropriated regulatory agency for the State of Mississippi as well as a fee-for-service laboratory located on the campus of Mississippi State University. MSCL is dedicated to ensuring the quality and safety of fertilizers, pesticides, animal feeds, petroleum products, and manufactured and retail food. It provides fast, defensible, and reliable analytical data to:
1. The State’s regulatory agencies, including MDAC Bureau of Plant Industry.
2. The State’s federations and councils, such as the MS Farm Bureau and Delta Council.
3. The State’s industries, including Poultry, Catfish, and Manufacturing.
4. The State’s citizens.
The MSCL adheres to the highest professional standards and provides quality analytical services in a timely manner.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Performs advanced scientific and/or instrumental analyses exercising independent judgment in data interpretation and evaluation of compliance with regulatory requirements as promulgated by federal agencies, state agencies, and other regulatory bodies. Advanced-level analytical techniques could include: GC, GC/MS, LC, HPLC, ICP, ICP/MS, microscopic, microbiological and/or other analyses as appropriate.
2. Provides technical expertise for all aspects of environmental analyses in a specialized area; where applicable, researches special environmental/analytical problems and writes reports of findings; participates in interdepartmental meetings on a range of specialized technical and/or scientific subjects as needed.
3. Develops, implements, and maintains appropriate QA/QC controls and procedures. Integrates technical knowledge of regulatory requirements and applicable standards into all laboratory practices and procedures in a specialized area. Manages special projects and assignments related to assigned specialized area.
4. Participates in proficiency studies to demonstrate analytical competency, to examine and investigate problematic areas, and to research and develop improved preparatory and/or analytical techniques.
5. Gathers, evaluates, and interprets analytical and environmental data to determine regulatory compliance, ambient conditions, and process control trending.
6. Troubleshoots and maintains sophisticated analytical instrumentation, performing day-to-day routine care and more complex periodic maintenance, as well as reporting, investigating, correcting, and documenting serious instrumental malfunctions and problems.
7. May review analytical data produced by other analysts and specialists, following established standards and requirements; evaluates data for integrity and validity of the results.
8. Trains and/or leads analytical personnel engaged in preparatory and analytical work in designated specialization; serves as a reference and provides technical assistance to project managers and other personnel.
9. Contributes to development and implementation of short and long-range laboratory plans and objectives; participates in inter-departmental meetings on organizational, technical, and/or scientific subjects when assigned.
10. Researches and acquires new knowledge in the field by reading, attending seminars and workshops.
11. Performs related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
A professional employee must possess a bachelor’s degree in chemistry (biochemistry, analytical, inorganic, and organic), toxicology, microbiology, or related field OR completion of a bachelor's degree program at an accredited college or university with a minimum equivalent of 34 semester hours in toxicology, chemistry, microbiology, or related field and a minimum of 6 years of analytical testing experience.
Special Requirements:
Requires a degree in chemistry, environmental science, biology, microbiology, or a related field, and three to five years of progressively responsible instrumental and/or scientific chemical analysis experience, or equivalent
Preferred Qualifications:
1. Master’s degree in chemistry or in a related field,
2. Demonstrate competence in the principles, methods, and techniques of analytical chemistry.
3. Field and laboratory work experience beyond the minimum required.
Substitution allowed:
A master’s degree in chemistry, microbiology, or related field and a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience and demonstrated competence may be substituted to begin at the Laboratory Analyst III position.
A professional employee with a doctoral degree in chemistry, microbiology, or related field with 1 year of relevant experience and demonstrated competence can begin work at the Laboratory Analyst III level.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of:
• Principles of scientific analysis and established laboratory methodology.
• Inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, environmental sciences, biology, mathematics, microbiology and/or other related scientific fields.
• Laboratory and chemical principles, terminology, material, equipment, procedures, and techniques.
• Quality control and quality assurance techniques.
• Regulatory requirements related to laboratory analysis.
• Principles of laboratory ethics as applied to the production of valid analytical data.
Ability to:
• Independently learn and develop new complex laboratory procedures.
• Perform complex laboratory analyses and produce high quality data.
• Work safely with hazardous substances.
• Perform QA/QC activities objectively and without outside influence.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and managers, including representative outside groups and agencies.
• Research environmental and analytical problems.
Skilled in:
• Using complex analytical techniques including GC, GC/MS, LC, HPLC, ICP, ICP/MS, Microscopic, Microbiological and/or other analyses as appropriate.
• Advanced data processing and reporting using spreadsheets, databases, and specialized software.
• Interpreting analytical data and evaluating results.
• Troubleshooting analytical problems.
• Utilizing laboratory equipment and computers to conduct sample and data analyses.
• Oral and written communication and communicating technical concepts.
• Diagnosing and correcting problems with laboratory equipment and/or procedures.
• Providing direction to staff engaged in specialization, including assigning, and reviewing work.
• Demonstrating techniques and providing training to others.
Knowledge of:
• Principles of scientific analysis and established laboratory methodology.
• Inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, environmental sciences, biology, mathematics, microbiology and/or other related scientific fields.
• Laboratory and chemical principles, terminology, material, equipment, procedures, and techniques.
• Quality control and quality assurance techniques.
• Regulatory requirements related to laboratory analysis.
• Principles of laboratory ethics as applied to the production of valid analytical data.
Ability to:
• Independently learn and develop new complex laboratory procedures.
• Perform complex laboratory analyses and produce high quality data.
• Work safely with hazardous substances.
• Perform QA/QC activities objectively and without outside influence.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and managers, including representative outside groups and agencies.
• Research environmental and analytical problems.
Skilled in:
• Using complex analytical techniques including GC, GC/MS, LC, HPLC, ICP, ICP/MS, Microscopic, Microbiological and/or other analyses as appropriate.
• Advanced data processing and reporting using spreadsheets, databases, and specialized software.
• Interpreting analytical data and evaluating results.
• Troubleshooting analytical problems.
• Utilizing laboratory equipment and computers to conduct sample and data analyses.
• Oral and written communication and communicating technical concepts.
• Diagnosing and correcting problems with laboratory equipment and/or procedures.
• Providing direction to staff engaged in specialization, including assigning, and reviewing work.
• Demonstrating techniques and providing training to others.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
• Fine Motor Skills: Laboratory analysts need good fine motor skills to handle delicate equipment, pipettes, and small samples with precision. This includes tasks such as pipetting, micro-dispensing, and manipulating small objects.
• Visual Acuity: Good vision is essential for observing samples, reading measurements, and other tasks. Corrective eyewear may be necessary.
• Color Vision: Some laboratory work may involve the ability to distinguish colors, especially in fields like histology or chemistry where color changes indicate reactions or results.
• Manual Dexterity: Laboratory analysts must have the ability to perform tasks that require steady hands and coordination, including operating laboratory instruments, adjusting settings, and conducting intricate procedures.
• Standing or Sitting: Depending on the laboratory and the specific job tasks, laboratory analysts may need to stand for extended periods while working at laboratory benches or sit at computer workstations for data analysis and reporting.
• Lifting and Carrying: There may be a need to lift and carry laboratory supplies, equipment, or samples, which can vary in weight. The specific weight requirements will depend on the laboratory setting.
• Bending and Stooping: Laboratory analysts may need to access samples, equipment, or lower shelves, which may require bending or stooping.
• Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): PPE is mandatory. This can include wearing gloves, lab coats, safety goggles, and, in some cases, respirators. Comfortably wearing and using PPE is essential.
• Repetitive Movements: Laboratory work often involves repetitive movements, such as pipetting, which can put strain on wrists and hands. Proper ergonomics and the use of ergonomic equipment can help reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
• Adequate Mobility: Laboratory analysts should have the ability to move around the laboratory space, reach equipment, and navigate safely in a potentially crowded environment.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
All applicants must apply online and attach a cover letter, current resume or curriculum vitae, and the complete contact information for at least three professional references.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
