Position Title: Chemist

Employee Classification: Chemist

College/Division: New Mexico Dept of Agriculture

Department: 180600-NMDA STATE CHEMIST LABORATORY

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Location: Las Cruces

Offsite Location (if applicable):

Target Hourly/Salary Rate: $38,426 - $48,032 Commensurate with education and experience

Appointment Full-time Equivalency: 1.0

Exempt or Non-Exempt: Exempt

Summary:  The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) works for the benefit of the state’s citizens and supports the viability of agriculture and affiliated industries. NMDA promotes food protection, a uniform, and fair marketplace, and global marketing and economic development; supports the beneficial use of natural resources; and works cooperatively with public and private sector entities. Opportunities for excellence abound, and NMDA staff dedicate themselves to proactive service in fulfilling the department’s mission. Each division plays an important role in carrying out the goals and objectives. Our rich agricultural history, culture, and traditions are addressed through new and innovative approaches using the latest in science, technology, and economic strategies. In New Mexico, we contribute to the safest and most affordable, and nutritious food supply on the globe.
NMDA is a constitutional agency organized under the Board of Regents of New Mexico State University (NMSU). This unique relationship creates efficiencies and opportunities for New Mexico’s food and agriculture sector as well as service and outreach opportunities for NMSU, making NMDA an integral part of the university. NMDA/NMSU is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.

Classification Summary:This position includes the investigation, analysis, and interpretation of the composition, molecular structure, and properties of substances, the transformations which they undergo, and the amounts of matter and energy included in these transformations.

Classification Standard Duties:Supervises, directs, delegates, and evaluates work of assigned staff. Assures accurate and timely analyses of chemicals. Sets laboratory procedures. Develops and monitors a quality assurance program to meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. Analyzes organic and inorganic compounds to determine chemical and physical properties. Trains and supervises subordinate laboratory staff of professional, technical, and clerical personnel. Maintains liaison with appropriate state, federal, and private organizations. Performs related duties as required

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Required Education:Bachelor's degree in a related field.; Required Experience:Three (3) years of professional experience related to the standard duties as outlined.; Equivalency:None; Required Certification/License:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE:Knowledge and understanding of principles, procedures, regulations, and standards applicable to the job. Understanding of the University's mission, vision and goals.; SKILLS:short- and long-term planning; problem analysis and resolution; report preparation and presentation; interpersonal and organizational communication, both oral and written.; ABILITIES:develop and maintain effective working relationships; maintain accurate and orderly records; use independent judgment and initiative; organize and direct activities.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
Analyzes organic and inorganic compounds to determine chemical and physical properties. Assists in performing all operations of the laboratory to meet the needs of applicable regulatory programs. Maintains standards for required lab certifications. Resolves technical issues in an effective, efficient and timely manner. Evaluates and maintains adequate laboratory equipment and quality assurance procedures including replacement of supplies. Under limited supervision, perform, modify, and develop methods for chemical, physical or biological analysis. Performs recording and mathematical or statistical analysis and interpretation of analytical results. Monitors and improves laboratory programs and procedures. May provide technical documentation or testimony in a compliance conference, formal hearing, court or other enforcement related actions. Performs related duties as required. Chemists with the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) determine the methodology (typically AOAC and/or EPA based with some instrument specific) to be used for testing samples including participation in Inter-laboratory comparisons with other State Laboratories. Chemists perform routine chemical analyses of agricultural chemicals, feed materials and pesticides which include micro nutrients, adulterants, or hazardous chemicals in agricultural products or chemicals. This position ensures that products sold in the state meet minimum standards for New Mexico. Incumbents must have sound judgment and assume the responsibility for the completion of routine tests using standards prescribed by official state standards. Chemists will also develop laboratory procedures, perform laboratory tests, analyze and interpret laboratory test results, and write concise reports.

Preferred Qualifications

Specific experience in the chemical analysis of feed (protein, fat, fiber, moisture, ash), fertilizer (via ICP-MS and/or ICP-OES) and/or pesticides (via GC, LC-MS, HPLC) is preferred. Specific experience working in a GLP or ISO/IEC:17025 certified laboratory is preferred.

Special Requirements of the Position
This posting will be used to fill 2 positions (position numbers 717535 and 717609).
A Cover Letter and Unofficial Transcripts are required.
Must be able to obtain and maintain respirator medical approval and fit test requirements annually.

Department Contact: Cheryl Mason-Herrera, nmdahr@nmda.nmsu.edu, 575-646-7523

Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon funding

Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Standard Work Schedule: Standard (M-F, 8-5)

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: 

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work is normally performed indoors.

Physical Effort: Moderate physical activity.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.

Risk: Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.