 | NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY |
HUMAN RESOURCES SERVICES | |
POSITION CLASSIFICATION DESCRIPTION | |
| Position Classification Title: | NMDA State Chemist |
| Position Classification Code: | U4080 |
| 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: | |
| Primarily devoted to management of staff, functions and responsibilities of the laboratory. Oversees as well as assists in performing all operations of a regulatory agency laboratory including chemical, physical or biological analysis to identify the purity and concentration of substances that may be constituents, adulterants, contaminants, or potentially hazardous substances in the environment, food, consumer products, biological tissues and fluids, hazardous waste, or industrial and agricultural commodities or seeds for both the agency regulatory program, as well as the regulated industry and public (on a fee basis). Maintains proper quality assurance and lab certifications in compliance with federal, state, and university regulations and standards. Record, maintain, and report resulting analysis data to regulatory programs for utilization in inspection and enforcement determinations. Participates in overall and long term planning of the lab capabilities including budgeting and resource allocation. Review and revision of analytical procedures and capabilities and incorporation of new analysis or equipment based on statutory requirements and need of regulated industry. | |
| Standard Duties: | |
| Oversee and assist in performing all operations of the laboratory to meet needs of applicable regulatory programs. Maintain standards for required lab certifications. Resolve technical issues in an effective, efficient and timely manner. Evaluate and maintain adequate laboratory equipment and quality assurance procedures including arranging necessary maintenance or replacement of equipment and supplies. Under limited supervision, perform, modify, and develop methods for chemical physical or biological analysis. Consult on field sampling, handling and preservation procedures. Perform recording and mathematical or statistical analysis and interpretation of analysis results. Monitor, assess and improve laboratory programs and procedures. May maintain annual participation in check sample or other QA programs. Verify all practices and procedures are in compliance with program standards. May provide technical documentation or testimony in a compliance conference, formal hearing, court or other enforcement related action. Attend professional association conferences, trainings or meetings as approved by supervisor. Maintain regular communication with Division director and applicable staff as needed. | |
| Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: | |
| Accreditation and certification requirements and standards, proper laboratory and equipment operations and procedures, QA/QC procedures and reporting, proper chemical hygiene and good laboratory practices. Hazardous waste handling and environmental health standards. State and Federal laws and rules pertaining to regulatory programs for which analysis is being performed. | |
| Written and verbal communications skills in clear, concise and professional manner with effective listening. Prepare and maintain accurate, orderly records and reports. Maintain professional and appropriated rapport with staff, regulated entities and lab customers. Critical thinking and problem solving skills, short and long term planning for effective and timely completion of assigned work | |
| Ability to make well informed effective and timely decisions and perceives the impact and implication of those decisions. Provide supervision, direction, mentoring and feedback. Develop and perform analysis following prescribed analysis methodologies. Monitor and maintain QA/QC standards, complete tasks in requested timeframes, foster cooperative work environment and maintain effective relationships; self motivate to work effectively. | |
| 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- May be required to be certified, registered or licensed in additional specialty area(s). | |
| Departmental Requirements- | |
| Special Requirements- | |