Chemistry Technician I

About the role

The Chemistry Technician I position provides technical support to the Inorganic Chemistry Unit within the Environmental Sciences Section of the State Laboratory of Public Health. The role performs routine and standardized laboratory tasks including sample accessioning, wet chemistry bench analysis, quality assurance checks, and preparation of environmental and drinking water samples for testing.

Responsibilities

• Accession drinking water and environmental lead samples and record associated information in the laboratory information management system.
• Apply accessioning labels, verify sample documentation, and prepare samples for designated testing procedures.
• Perform wet chemistry tests such as total dissolved solids and total suspended solids using established laboratory methods.
• Absorb prepared samples for metals analysis through hot-block digestion and other standardized preparation techniques.
• Conduct backup instrumental analysis using automated titration equipment.
• Complete routine laboratory tasks including glassware washing, inventory receipt, sample disposal, and workspace upkeep.
• Carry out periodic laboratory safety and quality assurance checks in accordance with internal procedures and accreditation standards.
• Support sample digestion workflows and provide general operational assistance to chemistry technicians and chemists.
• Review and follow standard operating procedures relevant to assigned technical tasks.
• Perform additional laboratory support functions as assigned to maintain efficient unit operations.

Requirements

The Chemistry Technician I position requires demonstrated experience accessioning environmental and drinking water samples in a laboratory information management system (LIMS) with intermediate proficiency in electronic documentation. Proven record performing wet chemistry analyses such as TDS and TSS using standardized laboratory methods, with documented accuracy in recorded results. Measurable experience preparing samples for metals testing through hot-block digestion and related inorganic chemistry preparation techniques. Documented success conducting routine laboratory safety and quality control checks in accordance with established laboratory procedures and accreditation requirements. Established history managing core laboratory support tasks—including inventory receipt, sample disposal, and glassware cleaning—with consistent completion under defined timelines.

Qualifications

The Chemistry Technician I position requires a minimum of an associate's degree in one of the chemical, biological, microbiological, environmental or natural resource sciences or a closely related curriculum including related chemistry laboratory coursework from an appropriately accredited institution OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Skills and Abilities

The Chemistry Technician I position requires the following skills: Demonstrated experience accessioning environmental and drinking water samples in a laboratory information management system (LIMS) with intermediate proficiency in electronic documentation. Proven record performing wet chemistry analyses such as TDS and TSS using standardized laboratory methods, with documented accuracy in recorded results. Measurable experience preparing samples for metals testing through hot-block digestion and related inorganic chemistry preparation techniques. Documented success conducting routine laboratory safety and quality control checks in accordance with established laboratory procedures and accreditation requirements. Established history managing core laboratory support tasks—including inventory receipt, sample disposal, and glassware cleaning—with consistent completion under defined timelines.

Benefits

The Chemistry Technician I position offers competitive compensation and benefits. The salary grade range is $35,596.00 - $62,294.00 and the recruitment range is $35,596.00 - $43,505.00. The State of North Carolina offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance options, standard and supplemental retirement plans, and the NCFlex program. Employees also receive paid vacation, sick, and community service leave. In addition, paid parental leave is available to eligible employees.

Pay

The Chemistry Technician I position pays a salary grade range of $35,596.00 - $62,294.00 and a recruitment range of $35,596.00 - $43,505.00.

Schedule

The Chemistry Technician I position operates in a regulated laboratory environment and requires adherence to established safety procedures, data integrity standards, and accreditation requirements.