0000001499.TOXICOLOGY CHEMIST II.CRIME LAB

Responsibilities

• Performs and evaluates approximately 25 complex, quantitative analytical procedures to determine the identity and concentration of drugs, metabolites, poisons, and other toxins.
• Reviews instrument function and analytical results for accuracy and appropriateness; performs additional analytical tests as indicated by initial testing.
• Maintains detailed records of all work sufficient to verify that work product meets scientific and legal requirements.
• Develops and maintains active quality control/quality assurance programs to document validity and quality of analytical results.
• Aids in the development and validation of new analytical procedures.
• Remains current in technical knowledge.
• Trains new chemists.
• Preserves the quality and maintain the integrity of evidence to ensure the validity of analytical results.
• Selects appropriate specimen for analysis.
• Prepares laboratory reagents and standards.
• Maintains an adequate level of supplies and equipment.
• Maintains, calibrates, troubleshoots, and repairs specialized laboratory instrumentation.
• Evaluates analytical assays and specific assay results for the purpose of initial reporting.
• Manages and prioritizes a large volume of analyses performed in common bench space with common instrumentation.
• Provides on-call emergency holiday and weekend analytical services as needed by the Medical Examiner’s Office.

Qualifications

• Education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Chemistry, or in a job related field of study.
• Two (2) years of analytical laboratory experience.
• Ability to operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and/or repair specialized laboratory instrumentation.
• Knowledge of mathematics and chemistry.
• Skilled in the use of standard laboratory techniques.
• Knowledge of chemical and biological safe handling procedures.
• Good oral and written communication skills for lay, legal, and technical audiences.
• Ability to work well with others.
• Working knowledge of computers.

Special Requirements/Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Passes an extensive background investigation.
• Valid Texas Drivers License and good driving record.
• Must provide a copy of 10-year driving history.
• Maintain a good driving record and remain in compliance with Article II, Subdivision II of Chapter 90 of the Dallas County Code.

Physical/Environmental Requirements

• Routinely required to work in areas with potential exposure to biological and/or chemical hazards.
• Follows good laboratory practices and safety precautions including the use of personal protective equipment.
• Manual dexterity and visual acuity sufficient to accurately execute standard protocols.
• Some moderate lifting is required.