Chemist 2

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; Pennsylvania; On-site; USD 54,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's Department of Environmental Protection is seeking a Chemist 2 to perform chemical analyses, operate specialized instruments, and support emergency response through the Mobile Analytical Unit.

The role emphasizes quality control, record management, and collaboration with a team to deliver accurate laboratory results and timely data for environmental protection.

Full-time, 7:30 AM–3:30 PM, travel required; starting salary $60,538; telework not available.

Qualifications

• One year as Chemist 1 or equivalent in professional chemical analytics with a qualifying bachelor’s degree.
• Bachelor’s degree that includes 30 credits in chemistry or biochemistry or
• Graduate degree in chemistry.
• Applicants are considered to have met educational requirements within 3 months of graduating.

Responsibilities

• Sample Analysis: Analyze air contaminants and other sample types using approved laboratory methods.
• Instrument Operation: Operate and maintain infrared spectroscopy and other analytical instruments.
• Quality Control: Follow procedures, maintain records, and assist in calibration/verification of instruments.
• Emergency Support: Prepare samples, coordinate field work, and operate mobile lab units.
• Training Duties: Guide other analysts on sample preparation and instrument use.
• Record Management: Prepare reports, document results, and maintain logs of activities.

Skills

Chemist experience

Analytical instrumentation

Emergency response support

Education

Bachelor's degree with 30 chemistry/biochemistry credits

Graduate degree in chemistry

Job description

THE POSITION

As a Chemist 2 with the Department of Environmental Protection, you will help support key laboratory work that protects public health and the environment. This role offers the chance to apply scientific knowledge in real situations where fast and accurate analysis matters. You will be part of a team that responds to emergencies, solves tough problems, and ensures high-quality laboratory results.

THE POSITION

As a Chemist 2 with the Department of Environmental Protection, you will help support key laboratory work that protects public health and the environment. This role offers the chance to apply scientific knowledge in real situations where fast and accurate analysis matters. You will be part of a team that responds to emergencies, solves tough problems, and ensures high-quality laboratory results.

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This role focuses on performing chemical analyses, maintaining specialized laboratory equipment, and supporting emergency response efforts through the Mobile Analytical Unit. As a Chemist 2, you will perform the following duties:

• Sample Analysis: Analyze air contaminants and other sample types using approved laboratory methods
• Instrument Operation: Operate and maintain specialized analytical instruments, including infrared spectroscopy equipment
• Quality Control: Follow established procedures, maintain accurate records, and support calibration and verification of instruments
• Emergency Support: Assist with emergency response by preparing samples, coordinating field work, and operating mobile laboratory units
• Training Duties: Provide guidance to other analysts on sample preparation, instrument use, and laboratory procedures
• Record Management: Prepare reports, document results, and maintain logs related to laboratory activities

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• This position requires travel
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary:Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $60,538 (before taxes).
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

Required Experience, Training & Eligibility

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements

• One year as a Chemist 1 (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or
• One year of professional chemical analytical experience, and a bachelor’s degree that includes 30 credits in chemistry or biochemistry; or
• A graduate degree in chemistry.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree.

Condition of Employment

• This position requires possession of a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license.

Other Requirements

• You must possess and maintain a REAL ID or passport for this position. Proof of possession will be needed at the time of a conditional offer of employment.
• You must meet the PA residency requirement . For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Commonwealth employees who wish to use their seniority rights must apply to the internal posting for their seniority rights to be considered.

Veterans

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. 7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS)

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

EXAMINATION INFORMATION

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
• Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
• Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
• You must provide complete and accurate information or:
  • your score may be lower than deserved.
  • you may be disqualified.
• You may only apply/test once for this posting.
• Your results will be provided via email.