Chemist I (Flexible/Hybrid)

State of North Carolina; North Carolina; Hybrid; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of North Carolina, through the Department of Environmental Quality, is seeking a dedicated Chemist I to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. This full-time position offers the flexibility of a hybrid work environment and involves key responsibilities such as facility inspections and regulatory monitoring. Ideal candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in chemistry and relevant experience, showcasing their commitment to environmental stewardship.

Benefits

State Benefits

Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry required.
• Two years of laboratory experience or equivalent combination.
• Knowledge of environmental regulations essential.

Responsibilities

• Audit and inspect facilities for compliance with water quality regulations.
• Write and review post-inspection reports.
• Monitor regulatory changes and communicate with stakeholders.

Skills

Knowledge of federal and state water quality and environmental regulations

Experience with auditing and reviewing technical reports for compliance

Effective communication of technical information

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemistry

Two years of related laboratory experience

Job description

Are you passionate about the environment and want to make a difference?

DEQ has an open opportunity for a Chemist I.

This is a full-time position (40 hours per week) with State Benefits

This position qualifies for a hybrid telework option, allowing routine office and remote workdays. The NC Department of Environmental Quality trusts our employees to be self-motivated and successful in hybrid/remote roles. Telework options are subject to change at management's discretion.

This Chemist I will inspect certificate holder facilities to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, including NC Laboratory Certification Branch rules (e.g., 15A NCAC 02H .0800), US EPA Code of Federal Regulations, and EPA- and DEQ-mandated methodologies for environmental parameters.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Audit and inspect certificate holders’ facilities to ensure adherence to NC DWR WW/GW LCB rules and approved analytical procedures.
2. Write and review post-inspection reports and certificate holder responses.
3. Monitor and communicate changes in regulations and analytical methodologies to relevant parties.
4. Assist certificate holders with technical questions and troubleshooting via phone, email, and on-site visits.
5. Peer review inspection reports and provide feedback within deadlines.
6. Develop and revise inspection checklists, policies, and guidance documents as needed.

About the Division of Water Resources:

The Division protects North Carolina’s water resources through permitting, investigations, compliance, monitoring, and more. It comprises five sections: Water Quality Regional Operations, Water Sciences, Public Water Supply, Water Quality Permitting, and Water Planning. Learn more at Division of Water Resources.

About the Department of Environmental Quality:

The primary mission of DEQ is to provide science-based environmental stewardship for North Carolina’s health and prosperity. DEQ manages programs to protect air and water quality, promotes energy strategies, and offers technical assistance. Visit our website at Department of Environmental Quality.

If you have student loans, employment with the state may make you eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. More information at www.studentaid.gov.

This position is located at: 2090 U.S. Highway 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778.

Qualifications:

• Knowledge of federal and state water quality and environmental regulations.
• Experience with auditing and reviewing technical reports for compliance.
• Ability to communicate technical information effectively both orally and in writing.

Applicants must demonstrate these qualifications on their application. Education and experience can be combined to meet the requirements. A bachelor’s degree in chemistry and two years of related laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination, is required.

DEQ is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Hiring salary depends on qualifications and budget. Veterans may attach DD-214; those with incomplete degrees should provide transcripts; foreign degrees require evaluation for U.S. equivalency. For application status, log in to your account. For questions, contact Tamara Cherry at [phone] or [e-mail]. For technical support, call 855-524-5627.