Organic Chemist

About the role

The Bureau of Water Supply, Division of Distribution Water Quality (DWQ) is seeking to hire an Associate Chemist Level III, to serve as an Organic Chemist in the Organic Chemistry section of the Distribution Laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Performing routine analytical testing using drinking water organic chemistry approved methods following written protocols.
• Carrying out routine laboratory quality control procedures according to Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP)/The Nelac Institute (TNI) protocols and the DWQ Quality Assurance Manual while ensuring that analyses are performed in accordance with regulatory requirements for drinking water.
• Implementing methods for organic analysis of drinking water samples, which includes selecting reagents, preparing specifications for equipment to be purchased, preparing method standard operating procedures (SOPs), and obtaining initial Quality Control (QC) objectives.
• Reviewing QC data generated by analysts; monitoring QC charts and tables for accuracy; entering data into QC charts and tables; and devising protocols for the preparation of calibration standards and QC solutions.
• Identifying errors or potential problems that could result in errors; taking corrective actions; and evaluating the corrective actions taken, to prevent recurrence.
• Assisting with the enhancement to the automated Laboratory Information System (STARLiMS) for data record keeping and report generation to meet the needs for the section including appropriate QC validation rules and electronic transfer of data. Reviews data and generates reports.
• Maintaining inventories of equipment and supplies.
• Operating and maintaining analytical instruments in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, diagnosing instrument problems and performing routine maintenance of analytical instrumentation making minor repairs, adjustments and calibrations as needed.

Requirements

• Completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college, including or supplemented by 16 semester credits in chemistry and 8 semester credits in any one or a combination of the following areas: chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, environmental science, forensic science, or other natural science.
• A valid License as a Clinical Laboratory Technologist issued by the New York State Education Department.
• At least two years of full-time satisfactory experience performing chemical or physical analyses in a laboratory.

Qualifications

• Substitution of education for experience on the basis of 30 graduate semester credits from an accredited college in any of the areas of study described in the qualification requirements above for one year of experience.

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office suite software including Excel, Word, Power Point, SharePoint and Teams
• Familiarity with database systems such as STARLIMS brand Laboratory Information Management System
• Ability to analyze samples accurately and precisely
• Ability to utilize the New York State Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP) administered in accordance with directives of the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Conference (TNI), and Standard Methods for assigned analysis to obtain Quality Control objectives
• Analytical ability
• Interpersonal skills
• Communication skills both written and oral
• Time management

Hours and Shift

35 Hours per week. Day shift; may be required to work nights, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.

Work Location

96-05 Horace Harding Expressway
Flushing, NY 11368

Additional Information

• Some of the physical activities performed by Associate Chemists and environmental conditions experienced are: lifting and carrying packages weighing approximately 20 pounds for a distance of 30 feet; performing duties in confined work areas; wearing protective garments such as respirators, gloves, lab coats, and goggles; handling and manipulating laboratory equipment and instruments/tools such as glass and plastic ware and lab tools, etc.; adjusting settings on machines which require fine finger and hand coordination and control; and collecting samples at sites in all weather conditions.
• Health and Safety requirements for an Associate Chemist Level III include being familiar with, and complying with applicable environmental, health & safety (âEH&Sâ) laws and regulations, and DEPâs EH&S policies and procedures as set out in Employee Environmental, Health and Safety Handbook that relate to work assignments and work environment. As well as reporting any instance of non-compliance, or issue of concern regarding violation of policy, standards or procedures to supervisor or appropriate authorities.
• This position is also open to qualified persons with a disability who are eligible for the 55-a Program. Please indicate at the top of your resume and cover letter that you would like to be considered for the position through the 55-a Program.
• The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
• New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. However, City Employees in certain titles who have worked for the City for 2 continuous years may also be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County. To determine if the residency requirement applies to you, please discuss with the agency representative at the time of interview.