Chemist II

Maine; Augusta (ME); Remote; USD 56,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A state environmental agency in Augusta is looking for a Chemist II to oversee the quality management of environmental data. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry and professional experience. The role offers opportunities for remote work and competitive benefits including health insurance and a retirement plan.

Benefits

13 paid holidays

Health Insurance coverage

Paid Parental Leave

Gym Membership reimbursement

Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related laboratory science and two years of professional experience in analytical chemistry.
• Equivalent experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis.

Responsibilities

• Provide professional services in overseeing the quality review of environmental data.
• Evaluate data quality and environmental monitoring programs.
• Conduct data quality reviews and ensure accurate data upload.

Skills

Knowledge of inorganic, organic, and analytical chemistry principles

Ability to interpret and evaluate technical data

Knowledge of quality assurance and data quality principles

Ability to communicate effectively

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related laboratory science

Job description

Overview

The Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Remediation and Waste Management, is seeking to fill a Chemist II vacancy in Augusta.

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

CHEMIST II

Opening Date: October 02, 2025

Closing Date: 12:01 AM October 17, 2025

Location: Augusta

Position Number: 08300-1800

Class Code: 6402

Grade: 24 (Professional/Technical)

Salary: $56,867.20 - $79,705.60 Per Year*

*This includes the 10% Salary Adjustment. New hires generally start at step one. Annual step increases are based on performance reviews and authorization of such increases.

There will be some remote work opportunities available with this position with management approval and following the DEP’s Telework Policy.

Responsibilities

Brief Job Description: The position provides professional services and scientific work in implementing, coordinating, and overseeing the quality review and management of environmental data for all Bureau of Remediation and Waste Management programs. This position evaluates data quality and environmental monitoring programs (sampling and quality assurance plans) to ensure project data objectives are met, support sound project decisions, and evaluate potential environmental impacts. This position works with Department staff, consultants, and analytical laboratories to identify and resolve data quality or procedural concerns and to recommend data quality improvements. The position assigns and conducts data quality reviews and is responsible for ensuring data is uploaded to the Department’s Environmental and Geographic Analysis Database (EGAD) accurately and efficiently. This position also conducts data quality and management duties to support other Department Bureaus/Divisions and State Agencies.

Other job duties include:

• Attending site visits and project team meetings.
• Assisting with training activities and workshops.
• Formatting data for inclusion in Department websites and reports.
• Assisting with the Department Request for Bid process.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: A Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related laboratory science and two (2) years professional level experience in analytical chemistry. Equivalent experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis.

Preference will be given to candidates with skills and/or experience in:

• Knowledge of inorganic, organic, and analytical chemistry principles.
• Knowledge of laboratory and field chemistry principles, methods, and equipment.
• Knowledge of quality assurance and data quality principles.
• Knowledge of sample collection and preservation procedures and techniques.
• Ability to interpret and evaluate technical data and form valid conclusions and recommendations.
• Ability to train and oversee subordinate employees.
• Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work.
• Ability to use spreadsheets and other data management programs to display and evaluate field and laboratory data.
• Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing with a variety of audiences.

Benefits and Work Environment

• Work-Life Balance – 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually; vacation accrues with years of service; overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.
• Health Insurance Coverage – The State of Maine pays 85%-100% of employee-only premiums; see premium costs for you and your family.
• Health Insurance Premium Credit – Optional program reduces employee-only premiums by 5%.
• Dental Insurance – 100% of employee-only dental premiums covered.
• Retirement Plan – The State contributes 14.11% of pay to MainePERS.
• Gym Membership Reimbursement – Up to $40 per month.
• Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts – Pre-tax savings.
• Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness – Eligible federal program.
• Living Resources Program – Employee assistance.
• Parental Leave – 42 consecutive calendar days of fully paid parental leave, with additional unpaid leave under FMLA.
• Voluntary Deferred Compensation – Pre-tax savings through MaineSaves457(b).
• Wellness benefits information available through the Office of Employee Health and Wellness.

Application and Equal Opportunity

As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness and is committed to an inclusive environment for applicants of all backgrounds.

If you are unable to complete the online application, please contact the Human Resources representative listed on the job opening to arrange an alternative submission method.

Reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.