Chemist - 18949 - Full-time / Part-time

POSITION DUTIES
Operates advanced spectroscopic and chromatographic instrumentation with demonstrable competence and devises analytical schemes using these instruments. Responsible for operation and method development involving gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC/MS), instrumentation. Also utilizes and advises other personnel in both classical chemical methods and other advanced instrumentation techniques to include gas chromatography and computer data systems. Performs required analyses using these techniques, interprets data, and presents results. Is responsible for maintaining all associated instrumentation in proper working order, determines need for and specifies the purchase of upgrading and replacement instrumentation.
Devises new analytical procedures for the isolation, identification and measurement of concentrations of chemical compounds in air samples, applying full professional competence in the problem definition, planning, execution, analysis, interpretation and monitoring of findings. These procedures include those pertaining to sampling, concentration, storage and cleanup; makes recommendations in these areas to internal and external customers that receive analytical support. Conducts literature searches for the latest methods, techniques and equipment, and selects and adapts those suited to the specific problem.
Performs detailed analysis under field conditions while working in mobile analytical platforms. Provides advice and assistance to customers on problems involving chemical analysis. Provides technical consulting support and assistance in the field of chemistry, analysis, and monitoring to team members. Contributes technical data or writes and/or reviews official publications, circulars and directives pertaining to chemistry or assigned functional areas. Provides support to other laboratory sections.
Uses knowledge of, and skill in applying, the principles, procedures, requirements, and work techniques of the full range of advanced operations, instrumentation, and practices sufficient to complete work that is acceptable as being technically correct and is reviewed for effectiveness in meeting ISO 17025, CASARM, LMQAP, and Chemical Hygiene program objectives.

TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Personnel will be able to provide proof of training in Sample Collection Operations as well as Operation of Gas Chromatograph Instrumentation equipped with Mass Selective Detector. Upon completion of training and prior to start of operations personnel will be expected to complete Operator Certification for each analytical method in use. Successful certification will consist of demonstration of knowledgeable operation of the instrument in accordance with a written procedure.
Personnel will also be required to complete a Category A physical w/EKG and respiratory clearance along with training in OSHA 40 hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) with First Aid.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
All work to be carried out will be performed at the Redstone Arsenal located in Huntsville, AL.
Working hours are expected to be 4 night shifts of 10 hours per work week. Depending on operational considerations this schedule could be extended to consist of as many as 6 shifts of 10 hours per week.
Will be required to wear protective toe shoes, preferably composite.
May be required to wear government provided personal protective equipment (e.g. CBRNE).
Must possess or be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance.
Must be able to pass an annual medical examination.
A drug screening test is required prior to appointment.
Must be able to work outside, exposed to all weather conditions (e.g. foul weather, extreme hot and cold), and unpredictable terrain or access.
Must be able to work within the operational constraints required of a mobile platform including limited operating space and potential for adverse ambient and electrical conditions.
Emergency response and remediation activities may include long periods of standing, walking long distances, carrying light to moderately heavy objects (50 pounds or more), climbing multiple flights of stairs, crouching, all the while wearing up to and including OSHA Level C Personnel Protective Ensemble (PPE) for extended periods of time (e.g. 1 hour or more duration).

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION
Professional knowledge of chemical principles, theory, practice and established methodology sufficient to perform the full range of duties involved in evaluating and comparing physical behavior and chemical reactivity of compounds, in sampling and analyzing complex and unusual materials, and in modifying and developing sampling and analytical methods.
Skill in calibrating and operating of analytical instruments and with expertise in calibration, operation, and data interpretation of instruments used to complete assignments such as could be acquired through professional laboratory experience.
Interpretation of analytical results to include the ability to recognize and resolve deviations in data; organize information and interpret results; and prepare data and results for inclusion in required briefings or project reports.
Practical knowledge of military and federal laws and regulations, CASARM, LMQAP, and industrial practices sufficient to develop, adapt and evaluate methods that fulfill program objectives.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
The supervisor assigns the requests from the serviced activities by defining the overall objectives and setting the resources available. The supervisor and chemist discuss the general approach to be taken and the extent and implication of the problems involved. The chemist independently plans and carries out the work; resolves conflicts which arise; coordinates the work with the work of others as necessary; and interprets policy on own initiative in terms of established objectives. The supervisor is kept informed on work progress, potentially controversial matters, or far-reaching implications.

PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES
Follows Internal Operating Procedures designed to ensure compliance with a programmatic Laboratory Quality Control Plan which, in turn, is designed to ensure compliance with external documents such as the CASARM Quality Assurance Plan and the Laboratory and Monitoring Quality Assurance Plan. Additional site specific guidelines consist of Site Safety Plans and the Conduct of Operations Plans. All scientific methods will be formalized and certified for each analytical process. If an instance arises that may require a change to any of the operational documents, the inconsistency will be reported to the Site Supervisor prior to making modifications to any approved documents or processes. The situation will be reviewed as necessary by all concerned parties and changes or recommendations for resolution will be made prior to continuing operations.

COMPLEXITY
Work consists of a variety of complex assignments that require ingenuity and technical skill to adapt established procedures, methods, or techniques for use in new applications or situations. This may include selection of appropriate instrumentation to obtain valid results based on field conditions and instrument responses during operations. Work will also consist of evaluation of unusual circumstances, variations in approach and incomplete or conflicting data in order to determine follow on activities.

SCOPE AND EFFECT
The work involves serving as a technical specialist to develop new and improved existing methods of collection and analysis of unknown samples that present a health hazard or pose an adverse impact on the environment and general populous. The results of the work affect a range of affiliated activities within DOD.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Work requires some physical exertion and stamina such as long periods of standing, recurring stooping, bending, crouching, or reaching, and frequent lifting and moving of heavy items and equipment in excess of 50 pounds. Requires above average dexterity to perform technical operations. Requires occasional work in restrictive protective clothing.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work may involve regular and recurring exposure to irritants and highly toxic and lethal chemicals, including carcinogens, flammable, and explosive solvents and chemicals. May be required to wear special protective clothing such as the toxicological agent protective apron, gloves and protective mask. Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments exposing the worker to adverse weather conditions. Frequent work with and around potentially lethal chemical agents and materials requires stringent precautions and safeguards to prevent injury due to spill or release.