Chemist: Food and Radiology

IN Auditor of State; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 53,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The Indiana Department of Health seeks an Analytical Chemist to conduct radiological testing and chemical analyses, ensuring adherence to quality assurance standards. The role offers a chance to impact public health positively while providing a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits within the State of Indiana.

Benefits

Three medical plan options including RX coverage

Comprehensive leave policies

Education Reimbursement Program

Wellness Rewards Program

Deferred compensation account with employer match

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years' experience as an analytical chemist.
• Strong knowledge of radiochemistry and federal regulations.
• Ability to operate specialized laboratory instruments.

Responsibilities

• Perform radiological testing using FDA methodology.
• Conduct chemical and physical analyses on various materials.
• Prepare technical reports and maintain laboratory equipment.

Skills

Analytical Chemistry

Laboratory Safety

Technical Reporting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biological, physical or life science

Tools

Laboratory Equipment

Job description

Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH):

The Indiana Department of Health’s mission is to promote, protect, and improve the health and safety of all Hoosiers so that they can reach their optimal health regardless of where they live, learn, work, or play.

The Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) has earned prestigious national and local recognition, solidifying its reputation as a leader in workplace excellence.

- USA Today Top Workplace for 2025 - IndyStar Top Workplace -Top Workplace for work-life flexibility

Role Overview :

Performs Radiological testing using FDA/FERN methodology.

Salary Statement :

The salary for this position traditionally starts at$53,222.00but may be commensurate with education or work experience.

A Day in the Life:

The essential functions of this role are as follows:

• Perform chemical and physical analysis on various clinical, food, water, environmental or other submitted materials to determine presence and/or level of contaminants or toxic substances using a variety of instruments using management approved procedures.
• Perform analysis using manual or automated instrumentation that meets CLIA, EPA, FDA and/or USDA regulations.
• Adhere to Quality Assurance guidelines.
• Maintain proficiency and technical expertise by passing Proficiency Testing (PT) samples.
• Maintain instrumentation in working order, perform preventative maintenance, and repair on laboratory equipment.
• Complete all required paperwork, maintain instrument logbook, prepare technical reports, and update standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Maintain a safe and uncluttered work area.
• Train and cross train on other analytical procedures within the laboratory.
• Meet testing personnel responsibilities according to the standard for any clinical testing.
• Initiate original applied research activities in the specialty area.
• Maintain instruments in working order; performs preventive maintenance and repair on laboratory equipment.
• Serve as technical expert to other agency staff in a specialty area and regarding analytical results of samples and the analytical systems used.
• Some essential functions of this position may be performed onsite at the agency’s worksite or other assigned worksites while some essential functions of this position may be eligible for work from home authorization in accordance with policy. Remote work authorization is not automatic and is dependent upon operational needs and agency approval.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.

What You'll Need for Success:

You must meet the following requirement to be considered for employment:

• Bachelor’s degree in a biological, physical or life science from an accredited college or university.
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience in the role of an analytical chemist. A Master’s Degree in Science may substitute for one (1) year of experience. A PhD in Science may substitute for two (2) years of experience.
• Broad knowledge of principles and practices of analytical, clinical, food, organic, inorganic or radiochemistry.
• Specialized knowledge of related scientific areas such as physics, statistics, biochemistry, and toxicology.
• Extensive technical knowledge of, and ability to operate, highly specialized laboratory equipment
• Practical knowledge of laboratory safety.
• Knowledge of appropriate state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies relative to the specialty area.
• Ability to evaluate procedures and make critical comparisons of methods.
• Ability to appear in court as an expert witness.
• Ability to record technical data and produce reports in a highly regulated setting
• Effectively communicate, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to follow quality assurance requirements for producing accurate and defensible data.
• Ability to keep current on new developments in the field and determine relevance to scope of work.
• Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports: This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:

• Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
• Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
• Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
• Deferred compensation 457(b)account (similar to401(k) plan) with employer match
• Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
• A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
  • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
  • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
• Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
• 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Group life insurance
• Referral Bonus program
• Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
• Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
• Free Parkingfor most positions
• Free LinkedIn Learningaccess

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at [e-mail].