Chemist I

DGS Office of External Affairs; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture seeks an entry-level Chemist I in Little Rock to perform routine chemical and analytical testing on water, air, soil, food, and other samples under supervision.

Responsibilities include sample preparation, instrument operation (LC/MS, ICP-MS, Ion Chromatography), data documentation, and quality assurance to ensure tests meet regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Requires at least six months of chemistry-related experience or related field.
• Bachelor degree in chemistry or related sciences preferred.
• Experience with analytical instruments (LC/MS, ICP-MS, IC) and quality systems is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine chemical and analytical testing on water, air, soil, food, and other samples under supervision.
• Prepare samples using appropriate extraction and cleanup methods.
• Operate analytical instruments (LC/MS, ICP-MS, IC) and maintain instrument performance.
• Document data accurately and maintain laboratory records.
• Support quality assurance and regulatory compliance activities.

Skills

Laboratory testing

Data documentation

Quality assurance

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry or related sciences

Tools

LC/MS

ICP-MS

Ion Chromatography

Matrix extraction & clean-up

Job description

The Chemist I is an entry-level position with the Arkansas Department of Agriculture responsible for performing routine chemical and analytical testing on water, air, soil, food, and other samples. The role operates under supervision to ensure laboratory tests are conducted accurately, safely, and in compliance with regulatory requirements, including sample preparation, instrument operation, data documentation, and quality assurance.

Key qualifications:

• At least six months of experience in chemistry, chemical testing, laboratory testing, or related field
• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry or related sciences preferred
• Hands-on experience operating analytical instruments such as LC/MS, ICP-MS, and Ion Chromatography
• Proficiency in sample preparation including matrix extraction and clean-up methodologies
• Experience working under ISO 17025:2017 quality system requirements