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NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY
HUMAN RESOURCES SERVICES

POSITION CLASSIFICATION DESCRIPTION


Position Classification Title: Program Mgr,State Fuel Chemist
Position Classification Code: U4070
Job Family: NMDA
Pay Level: 08
Exempt Status: Exempt
This description is intended to describe the general nature of the work being performed. It is not intended to be a complete list of specific duties of any particular position. Duties, responsibilities and bargaining unit eligibility may vary based on the specific tasks assigned to the position.
Purpose of Classification:
This position provides specialized professional work at the supervisory level in the Petroleum Standards Laboratory. Administers the testing lab including octane test engines and analytical instruments. Responsible for the regulation and enforcement of laws that pertain to petroleum products sold in New Mexico and analysis and reporting on same. Verifies through accurate analysis that these products meet minimum American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards and New Mexico Petroleum Products Standards Act (PPSA) provisions.
Standard Duties:
Works under minimum supervision and reports directly to the Petroleum Assistant Division Director or Division Director. Supervises the operation of the octane engines and analytical instruments of the laboratory. Performs inspection, overhaul and maintenance of test engines. Schedules preventative maintenance; Reviews and approves all octane engine and analytical instrument results. Participates in applicable American Society for Testing Materials programs and other fuel cross-check exchange programs. Responsible for the analysis, reporting and record maintenance of petroleum products; in particular diesel fuel, brake fluid, motor oil, antifreeze, kerosene, gasoline and biofuels. May conduct special research projects. Keeps abreast with current ASTM and SAE tests, methods, specifications, practices. Researches new instruments and recommends purchases for the laboratory.May testify in court. Handles evidence samples and maintains Chain of Custody paperwork. Keeps records of tests conducted and generates reports. Instructs and trains in appropriate methods and procedures. Provides up-to-date operations manual for the petroleum laboratory. May be required to serve as Secretary/Chairperson for fuel cross-check sample exchange groups; may plan or host check sample group meetings.Oversees the supervision of personnel which includes: work allocation, training, promotion and enforcement of internal procedures and controls and problem resolution; evaluates performance and makes recommendations for personnel actions; motivates employees to achieve peak productivity and performance. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of University and Department policies and procedures; principles and practices of organization and administration; principles of supervision, training and performance evaluation; principles of scientific investigation, state and federal laws and regulations. Knowledge of American Society for Testing Materials - the standards, test methods, practices, and specifications of petroleum related materials. Knowledge of the Cooperative Fuel Research octane engines to include their operation, calibration, adjustment and repair/replacement.
Skill in public contact. Skill in research methods. Skill in report preparation. Skill in problem analysis and resolution. Skill in short- and long-range planning.
Ability to answer technical questions related to petroleum products and alternative fuels. Ability to learn numerous and complicated software programs that accompany the analytical instruments. Ability to plan, conduct and supervise octane tests. Ability to work with contemporaries in the petroleum industry including state refineries. Ability to communicate effectively in written and oral form. Ability to use independent judgment and initiative. Ability to use inductive and deductive reasoning to solve problems and troubleshoot instruments/equipment. Ability to operate and train subordinates in the safe use of the octane test engines, hand tools and analytical laboratory instruments (Sulfur analyzer, flashpoint instruments, gas chromatographs, infrared spectrometers - NIR and FTIR, viscometers, distillation instruments, high frequency reciprocating rig, hydrometers, ovens, water/oil baths, centrifuges, vaport pressure instrument, vapor/liquid ratio instrument, analytical balances in accordance with instructions and ASTM methods.
Minimum Qualifications:
   Education- Bachelor's degree in a related field.
   Experience- Five (5) years of professional experience directly related to the standard duties as outlined.
   Equivalency- None
   Certifications/License- Within 6 months, attend and pass driver's safety, fire extinguisher use and any NMSU safety office classes that are required. Within 2 years, employee must attend and pass the following courses: CFR Octane Oper/Maint, ASTM Gasoline Spec, Testing and Tech
   Departmental Requirements-
   Special Requirements-