Public Health Scientist I - II

Public Health Scientist I - II position with the Arizona Department of Health Services in Phoenix, AZ. This role supports the ADHS Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP) grant and the Chemical Emergency Response and Environmental Emergency Response Programs.

About the role

Performs inorganic and organic laboratory analyses on clinical (human blood, serum, urine), water, and food samples using complex analytical instrumentation including ICP-QQQ, LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, GC-QQQ, and/or LC-HRMS. Work adheres to CLIA accreditation and ADHS Laboratory QA/QC protocols. Responsibilities include sample preparation, analysis, interpretation of test results, LIMS data entry, supply ordering, instrument maintenance, troubleshooting, waste disposal, and adherence to Good Laboratory Practices. Position may require travel in support of the PHEP grant.

Responsibilities

• Performs instrument analysis on one or more platforms: ICP-MS, LC-MS, & GC-MS.
• Conducts primary and secondary data review of analytical data.
• Performs instrument maintenance and troubleshooting on ICP-MS, LC-MS, & GC/MS platforms.
• Processes samples to a matrix amenable to analytical instruments.
• Orders and accepts program supplies for the work unit as needed.
• Performs Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) data entry and sample accessioning.
• Performs method development and validations as required.
• Works directly with chemicals, laboratory hazards, and processes involving microwave digestion and/or solvent extraction.
• Other duties as assigned related to the position.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in a laboratory science including 12 semester hours in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, or a related field from a nationally accredited college or university. Foreign degrees must be determined equivalent by a nationally recognized accrediting agency.
• Knowledge of chemistry, chemical terminology, and related concepts in biology, physics, and mathematics.
• Understanding of conversion factors, general chemical laboratory methods, procedures, equipment, and technology.
• Awareness of chemical incompatibilities and laboratory safety protocols involving chemical and biological substances.
• Familiarity with quality assurance, quality controls, and ethical boundaries in laboratory processes.
• Skills in chemical laboratory testing, interpretation, and use of laboratory instrumentation and sample prep equipment.
• Ability to maintain accuracy and precision in lab work, apply safety precautions, and maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, and ability to write technical reports.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships and support a diverse multi-cultural workforce.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in using analytical balances and pipetting techniques.
• Experience with Performance Management (PM), Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI), and Lean methodologies.
• Valid Driver's License if driving is required for the position.

Benefits

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

Pay

$55,902 - $74,778 annually.