Chemist II

Chemist II – Augusta, ME

Overview

The Chemist II position supports chemical terrorism response and public health safety through advanced analytical laboratory work. This role performs complex chemical analyses to detect and identify hazardous agents from unknown threat events, evaluates and interprets results, and prepares detailed reports for internal and external stakeholders.

This position plays a critical role in emergency response operations, serving as the secondary lead to the LRN-Chemical Terrorism Coordinator during response events. Responsibilities also include maintaining advanced analytical instrumentation, supporting quality assurance programs, and ensuring regulatory compliance and laboratory accreditation standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct complex analytical testing to identify chemical threat agents from unknown or emergency events
• Interpret, validate, and report analytical results in accordance with laboratory standards
• Prepare samples, reagents, and calibration standards following SOPs
• Operate and maintain advanced instrumentation, including:Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS)
• Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
• Automated Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) systems
• Perform instrument troubleshooting, maintenance, and coordinate service schedules
• Participate in method development, validation, and implementation of new technologies
• Support Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) programs, including proficiency testing and internal audits
• Maintain accurate documentation, including laboratory logs, environmental monitoring, and hazardous waste records
• Manage inventory of chemicals, reagents, and consumables; assist with purchasing
• Develop and review Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Assist in maintaining CLIA compliance and laboratory accreditation requirements
• Respond to Chemical Terrorism events as part of the LRN-C response team
• Serve as backup to the LRN-Chemical Terrorism Coordinator during emergency responses
• Attend required trainings, conferences, and continuing education programs

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific field
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in an analytical laboratory setting
• Coursework requirements:At least 6 semester hours of Chemistry
• At least 6 semester hours of Biology
• At least 12 combined semester hours in Chemistry and/or Biology

Required Skills & Experience

• Hands-on experience with wet-lab techniques (pipetting, reagent preparation, standard preparation)
• Experience with Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) practices
• Familiarity with analytical instrumentation (GC/MS, LC-MS/MS preferred)
• Experience with method validation and laboratory documentation
• Strong technical writing and reporting skills
• Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including public health agencies, law enforcement, and federal partners
• Proficiency with: Microsoft Office Suite
• Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
• Instrument software (e.g., Agilent MassHunter, ChemStation)

Work Environment & Schedule

• Full-time, 40 hours per week
• Typical schedule: Weekdays, approximately 5:30 AM – 2:30 PM (1-hour lunch)
• Schedule flexibility required based on program needs and emergency response events
• On-call availability may be required for urgent response situations
• Primarily on-site role; limited remote work availability

Additional Information

This position plays a vital role in protecting public health and safety through rapid response and high-quality laboratory analysis. Candidates must be able to work in high-pressure environments and respond effectively during emergency situations.

Benefits (Through SSO)

SSO offers a competitive benefits package that supports your health, financial well‑being, and long‑term growth, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with discretionary employer match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Flexible spending accounts
• Additional employee perks