LABORATORY SCIENTIST I-IV

The State of New Hampshire, Division of Public Health has a full-time vacancy for Laboratory Scientist I-IV

Summary:

LAB SCIENTIST I

Applies established laboratory procedures to analyze and report results, on environmental samples in support of public health activities.

LAB SCIENTIST II

Performs skilled laboratory analyses on environmental samples and reports results in support of public health activities. Assumes additional duties in support of laboratory operations.

LAB SCIENTIST III

Efficiently performs skilled laboratory analyses on environmental samples and reports results in support of public health activities. Functions as a leader or key staff member in support of laboratory operations, projects, and initiatives.

LAB SCIENTIST IV

Provides day-to-day operational supervision of staff performing analyses and reporting results at the Public Health Laboratories (PHL). Performs and interprets complex laboratory procedures to generate data used to protect the public health.

YOUR EXPERIENCE COUNTS: Each additional year of approved formal education may be substituted for one year of required work experience and/or each additional year of approved work experience may be substituted for one year of required formal education.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Experience: Equivalent combination of 3 years of education and experience after completion of high school. Education and experience must be in the biological sciences, health sciences, or physical sciences.

License/Certification: None

Other Requirements:

1. Must be able to work flexible hours when the public health situation demands

2. Must be able to rotate among testing areas according to workload needs

3. Physical condition must allow for the administration of vaccines and necessary diagnostic tests

4. Must be able to handle unpleasant and/or hazardous specimens as well as samples known to contain infectious organisms and/or toxic chemicals such as carcinogens

5. Must be able to receive Hepatitis B vaccine

6. Must be able to wear personal protective equipment

Trainee Option: Not applicable

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university with major study in the biological sciences, health sciences, or physical sciences. One years' experience in a laboratory performing duties similar to the assignments of the laboratory in which the position is located.

AFTER-HIRE REQUIREMENTS: Must receive required vaccines within 12 months of hire

CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES:

In-Band Advancement Available: Yes No

Criteria: None

Broad Group Level Advancement Available: Yes No

Criteria: 19203001BGA01 ( Lab Scientist to Level 2 )

For promotion from the 19-2030 Chemists and Material Scientists-1 job title to the 19-2030 Chemists and Material Scientists-2 job title, and use of the “Laboratory Scientist II” working title, the eligibility requirements in Personnel Rule 303.08 Broad Group Level Advancement must be satisfied, as well as the following criteria:

1. Receive a satisfactory performance evaluation and be free of discipline, pursuant to Personnel Rule 1003.01, for one (1) year immediately prior to promotion

2. Receive a performance-based recommendation from the Supervisor and approval from the Bureau Chief of the Public Health Laboratories

LAB SCIENTIST II

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree OR equivalent combination of 4 years of education and experience after completion of high school. Education and experience must be in the biological sciences, health sciences, or physical sciences.

License/Certification: None

Other Requirements:

1. Must be able to work flexible hours when the public health situation demands

2. Must be able to rotate among testing areas according to workload needs

3. Physical condition must allow for the administration of vaccines and necessary diagnostic tests

4. Must be able to handle unpleasant and/or hazardous specimens as well as samples known to contain infectious organisms and/or toxic chemicals such as carcinogens

5. Must be able to receive Hepatitis B vaccine

6. Must be able to wear personal protective equipment

Trainee Option: Not applicable

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree from a recognized college or university with major study in the biological sciences, health sciences, or physical sciences. Two years' experience in a laboratory performing duties similar to the assignments of the laboratory in which the position is located.

AFTER-HIRE REQUIREMENTS : Must receive required vaccines within 12 months of hire

CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES:

In-Band Advancement Available: Yes No

Criteria: None

Broad Group Level Advancement Available: Yes No

Criteria: 19203002BGA01 ( Lab Scientist to Level 3 )

For promotion from the 19-2030 Chemists and Material Scientists-2 job title to the 19-2030 Chemists and Material Scientists-3 job title, and use of the “Laboratory Scientist III” working title, the eligibility requirements in Personnel Rule 303.08 Broad Group Level Advancement must be satisfied, as well as the following criteria:

1. Receive a satisfactory performance evaluation and be free of discipline, pursuant to Personnel Rule 1003.01, for one (1) year immediately prior to promotion

2. Receive a performance-based recommendation from the Supervisor and approval from the Bureau Chief of the Public Health Laboratories

LAB SCIENTIST III

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree and 1.5 years of experience OR equivalent combination of 5.5 years of education and experience after completion of high school. Education and experience must be in the biological sciences, health sciences, or physical sciences, with at least 1.5 years of experience performing chemical procedures in an environmental, or public health laboratory.

License/Certification: None

Other Requirements:

1. Must be able to work flexible hours when the public health situation demands

2. Must be able to rotate among testing areas according to workload needs

3. Physical condition must allow for the administration of vaccines and necessary diagnostic tests

4. Must be able to handle unpleasant and/or hazardous specimens as well as samples known to contain infectious organisms and/or toxic chemicals such as carcinogens

5. Must be able to receive Hepatitis B vaccine

6. Must be able to wear personal protective equipment

Trainee Option: Not applicable

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university with major study in the biological sciences, health sciences, or physical sciences. Three years’ experience in a laboratory performing duties similar to the assignments of the laboratory in which the position is located.

AFTER-HIRE REQUIREMENTS: Must receive required vaccines within 12 months of hire

CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES:

In-Band Advancement Available: Yes No

Criteria: None

Broad Group Level Advancement Available: Yes No

Criteria: 19203003BGA01 ( Lab Scientist to Level 4 )

For promotion from the 19-2030 Chemists and Material Scientists-3 job title to the 19-2030 Chemists and Material Scientists-4 job title, and use of the “Laboratory Scientist IV” working title, the eligibility requirements in Personnel Rule 303.08 Broad Group Level Advancement must be satisfied, as well as the following criteria:

1. Receive a satisfactory performance evaluation and be free of discipline, pursuant to Personnel Rule 1003.01, for one (1) year immediately prior to promotion

2. Receive a performance-based recommendation from the Supervisor and approval from the Bureau Chief of the Public Health Laboratories

LAB SCIENTIST IV

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree and 3 years of experience OR equivalent combination of 7 years of education and experience after completion of high school. Education and experience must be in the biological sciences, health sciences, or physical sciences, with at least 3 years of experience performing chemical procedures l in an environmental, or public health laboratory.

License/Certification: None

Other Requirements:

1. Must be able to work flexible hours when the public health situation demands

2. Must be able to rotate among testing areas according to workload needs

3. Physical condition must allow for the administration of vaccines and necessary diagnostic tests

4. Must be able to handle unpleasant and/or hazardous specimens as well as samples known to contain infectious organisms and/or toxic chemicals such as carcinogens

5. Must be able to receive Hepatitis B vaccine

6. Must be able to wear personal protective equipment

Trainee Option: Not applicable

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university with major study in the biological sciences, health sciences, or physical sciencesSix years’ experience in an analytical or environmental laboratory.

AFTER-HIRE REQUIREMENTS: Must receive required vaccines within 12 months of hire

CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES:

In-Band Advancement Available: Yes No

Criteria: None

Broad Group Level Advancement Available: Yes No

Criteria: None

DISCLAIMERS:

The supplemental job description lists the essential functions of the position and is not intended to include every job duty and responsibility specific to the position. An employee may be required to perform other related duties not listed on the supplemental job description provided that such duties are characteristic of that job title.

When applicable, the work of an employee in trainee status in this position shall be overseen by a fully qualified individual. An employee in trainee status shall meet the minimum qualifications within the period of time specified on the SJD, not to exceed one year of being hired into this position.

Responsibilities:
LAB SCIENTIST I

DETAILED TASKS (STANDARD): None

DETAILED TASKS (AGENCY/POSITION-SPECIFIC):

Performs laboratory tests on environmental samples, reporting the results to health professionals to assist in protecting public health. Maintains flexibility to cope with assignments that may vary from day to day, depending on workload.

Performs, documents, and evaluates quality control to assure accuracy of test results.

Operates and maintains laboratory equipment and apparatus to provide quality-assured laboratory test results and ensure timely performance of analyses. Ensures compliance with laboratory procedures.

Participates in proficiency testing and other quality assurance activities to ensure individual competence, meet federal regulations, and enhance the Public Health Laboratories' reputation.

Supports laboratory assistants to ensure proper operation of instruments and testing according to protocol.

Prepares reagents and maintains inventory to ensure sufficient resources to complete testing in a timely manner.

Actively participates in laboratory committees and meetings as assigned.

Understands and follows all laboratory safety rules to protect self and co-workers.

LAB SCIENTIST II

DETAILED TASKS (STANDARD): None

DETAILED TASKS (AGENCY/POSITION-SPECIFIC):

Performs and interprets complex laboratory tests on environmental samples and reports the results to laboratory partners to assist in protecting the public health; maintains flexibility to cope with assignments that may vary from day to day depending on workload.

Enters data into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to accurately track the testing process and reviews data to correct inaccuracies.

Performs, documents, and evaluates quality control to ensure the accuracy of test results. Assists with drafting laboratory procedures and makes recommendations for changes in methodology to ensure effective workflow. Assists in the development of new methods.

Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots complex laboratory equipment to provide quality-assured laboratory test results and to ensure timely performance of analyses.

Participates in proficiency testing and other quality assurance activities to ensure individual competence, meet federal regulations, and enhance the Public Health Laboratories’ reputation.

Trains laboratory assistants and offers technical assistance to field personnel. Documents all training activities to ensure compliance with federal regulations.

Communicates with healthcare providers and other laboratory users to convey test results and routine laboratory information for diagnostic and treatment decisions while always maintaining confidentiality.

Conducts inventory of supplies, reagents, and instrument parts to ensure a constant ability to perform testing.

Understands and follows all laboratory safety rules to protect self and co-workers.

Supports laboratory projects, such as evaluating a new procedure or chairing a task force, as assigned, and actively participates in laboratory committees to support PHL infrastructure.

LAB SCIENTIST III

DETAILED TASKS (STANDARD): None

DETAILED TASKS (AGENCY/POSITION-SPECIFIC):

Analyzes a variety of environmental matrices for organic parameters utilizing complex analytical instrumentation such as high-performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography and other highly technical instrumentation, to generate quality data to inform on important public health issues or environmental studies in the state.

Enters and reviews test results and quality control data that are updated in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to ensure accuracy and validity; corrects inaccuracies and implements strategies to enhance data integrity and to eliminate concerns. Prepares statistical reports from the data to satisfy management and client needs.

Performs, documents, and evaluates quality control to assure accuracy of test results. Participates in method development and applied research projects. Drafts laboratory procedures and makes recommendations for changes in methodology to assure effective workflow.

Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots highly complex laboratory equipment to provide quality assured laboratory test results and to assure timely performance of analyses.

Participates in proficiency testing and other quality assurance activities to ensure individual competence, meet federal regulations, and enhance the Public Health Laboratories’ reputation.

Oversees inventory of supplies, reagents, and instrument parts to assure constant ability to perform testing. Independently places orders to sustain laboratory functions.

Understands and follows all laboratory safety rules to protect self and co-workers.

Trains subordinate scientists and laboratory assistants and provides technical assistance to field personnel. Documents all training activities to ensure compliance with federal regulations.

Actively participates on task forces and committees, contributing expertise and insights to address PHL issues, drive initiatives, and support specialized laboratory areas or projects that enhance overall public health outcomes.

LAB SCIENTIST IV

DETAILED TASKS (STANDARD): None

DETAILED TASKS (AGENCY/POSITION-SPECIFIC):

Performs and interprets highly complex chemical laboratory procedures, generating precise data critical for public health protection. Engages in proficiency testing and continuous quality improvement initiatives to validate and document staff competency in analyses and overall lab procedures.

Supervises the semi-volatiles unit of the organics laboratory with responsibility for work assignments, training, and coordination of lab functions and equipment operation.

Monitors compliance with safety guidelines governing laboratory operations.

Trains subordinate scientists and laboratory assistants and provides technical assistance to field personnel. Documents all training activities to ensure compliance with federal regulations.

Enters, reviews and approves test results and quality control data that are updated in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to ensure accuracy and validity; corrects inaccuracies and implements strategies to enhance data integrity and to eliminate concerns. Prepares statistical reports from the data to satisfy management and client needs.

Performs, documents, and evaluates quality control to assure accuracy of test results. Leads method development and applied research projects. Drafts laboratory procedures and makes recommendations for changes in methodology to assure effective workflow.

Oversees the operation and maintenance of highly complex laboratory equipment to provide quality assured laboratory test results and to assure timely performance of analyses. Independently troubleshoots instruments errors and provides technical expertise to assist other laboratory staff with instrument operation, maintenance and troubleshooting.

Oversees inventory of supplies, reagents, and instrument parts to assure constant ability to perform testing. Independently places orders to sustain laboratory operations.

Understands and follows all laboratory safety rules to protect self and co-workers.

Assists in employee recruitment by participating in interviews and selecting candidates aligned with the laboratory’s mission.

Actively participates in task forces and committees, contributing expertise to address PHL issues, drive initiatives, and enhance laboratory efficiency and public health outcomes. Oversees laboratory projects, including evaluating new procedures and chairing task forces as assigned.

For further information please contact Lucio Barinelli, Administrator III, Lucio.S.Barinelli@DHHS.NH.GOV , 603-271-2994.

*TOTAL COMPENSATION INFORMATION

The State of NH total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits, including:

HMO or POS Medical and Prescription Drug Benefits:

The actual value of State-paid health benefits and the amount of employee health benefit contributions may vary depending on the type of plan selected and the bargaining unit with which a position is associated.

See this link for details on State-paid health benefits:

https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/benefits.aspx

Value of State's share of Employee's Retirement: 12.87% of pay

Other Benefits:

• Dental Plan at minimal cost for employees and their families ($500-$1800 value)

• Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts

• State defined benefit retirement plan and Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan

• Work/life balance flexible schedules, paid holidays and generous leave plan

• $50,000 state-paid life insurance plus additional low-cost group life insurance

• Incentive-based Wellness Program (ability to earn up to $500)

Total Compensation Statement Worksheet:

https://www.das.nh.gov/jobsearch/compensation-calculator.aspx

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website:

https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/documents/BenefitBrochure.pdf

https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/index.aspx

EOE

TDD Access: Relay NH 1-800-735-2964