Public Health Scientist I - II

Public Health Scientist position located at 250 N 17th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007. Two openings available. In-person only.

About the role

Performs inorganic and organic laboratory analyses on clinical (human blood, serum, urine), water, and food samples using complex analytical instrumentation of one or more of the following platforms: ICP-QQQ, LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, GC-QQQ, and/or LC-HRMS. Position supports work under the ADHS PHEP grant as well as supporting testing in the ADHS Chemical Emergency Response and Environmental Emergency Response Programs. All analytical work performed in adherence to the CLIA accreditation and ADHS Laboratory QA/QC protocols.

Bench work includes sample preparation, sample analysis, and the interpretation of test results. Additional work includes LIMS data entry, ordering supplies/consumables, instrument maintenance, instrument/method troubleshooting, waste disposal, and general adherence to Good Laboratory Practices. Works directly with chemicals and common laboratory hazards (gases, cryogenic sample prep) as well as analytical processes that may involve microwave digestion and/or solvent extraction. Performs method development and subsequent validations as needed. Position may be required to travel in support of the PHEP grant.

Responsibilities

• Performs instrument analysis on one or more of the platforms ICP-MS, LC-MS, & GC-MS.
• Primary and secondary data review of analytical data generated in support of the program.
• Performs instrument maintenance/troubleshooting on one or more of the platforms ICP-MS, LC-MS, & GC/MS.
• Processes samples to a matrix amenable to the analytical instrument performing the measurement.
• Orders and accepts program supplies for work unit as needed.
• Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) data entry and sample accessioning.
• Other duties as assigned related to the position.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in a laboratory science to include 12 semester hours in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, or related field from a nationally accredited college or university. A foreign degree must be previously determined to be equivalent by a nationally recognized accrediting agency.
• Driver's License. If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, the following requirements apply: Driver’s License Requirements.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of:
  • Chemistry, chemical terminology, and related concepts in biology, physics, and mathematics.
  • Conversion factors.
  • General chemical laboratory methods, procedures, equipment, and associated technology.
  • Chemical incompatibilities.
  • How the quality assurance team interacts with analytical chemistry.
  • How quality controls are used to ensure accuracy and precision are within acceptable limits.
  • Ethical boundaries with regards to laboratory processes.
  • General laboratory safety protocols involving both chemical and biological substances.
  • Performance Management (PM), Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI), and Lean methodologies.
• Skill in:
  • Chemical laboratory testing and interpretation.
  • Using and maintaining laboratory instrumentation and sample prep equipment.
  • Use of analytical balances.
  • Pipetting technique.
  • Maintaining accuracy and precision in lab work.
  • Applying safety precautions and procedures in everyday work to minimize hazards to self and others.
• Ability to:
  • Establish and maintain effective work relationships.
  • Communicate verbally and in writing.
  • Maintain accurate laboratory notes.
  • Write technical reports.
  • Use laboratory and support software, adhere to existing quality assurance and quality control protocols, maintain a clean and safe work environment.
  • Support a diverse multi-cultural workforce that reflects the community, promotes equal opportunity at all levels of public employment, and creates an inclusive work environment that enables all individuals to perform to their fullest potential free from discrimination.

Pay

$55,902 - $74,778

Benefits

• Affordable medical and dental insurance plans.
• Paid vacation and sick time.
• Paid Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program).
• 10 paid holidays per year.
• Wellness program and plans.
• Life insurance.
• Short/long-term disability insurance.
• Defined retirement plan with State contributions (50% of total cost matched by the State after a 27-week wait period for new employees).
• Award-winning Infant at Work program.
• Credit union membership.
• Transit subsidy.
• ADHS Student Loan Assistance Program: Eligible employees can receive up to $300.00 per month for outstanding student loans.