Chemist II

Department of State Health Services; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 33,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Insurance coverage

Job summary

Dept of State Health Services in Austin is seeking a Chemist II to perform LC-MS/MS analysis of environmental samples, focusing on PFAS. You will follow SOPs, ensure QA/QC, and maintain data integrity while contributing to method development and validation projects.

The role requires precise instrumentation handling, adherence to safety and regulatory guidelines, and collaboration with team leaders to meet project timelines.

Qualifications

• Experience performing LC-MS/MS analysis on environmental samples.
• Familiarity with QA/QC procedures and SOPs.
• Ability to handle method development / validation tasks.
• Knowledge of PFAS analysis and related regulations.

Responsibilities

• EJF 1. Chemistry/QC: Prepare/analyze samples for LC-MS/MS, calibrate, verify standards, and review data.
• EJF 2. Sample Management & Productivity: Track samples and meet EPA holding times with QA/QC.
• EJF 3. QA/Document Control: Follow Quality Manual and required training; maintain records.
• EJF 4. Equipment & Supplies: Maintain and troubleshoot LC-MS/MS equipment; manage reagents.

Skills

LC-MS/MS analysis

PFAS testing

Quality control

Data interpretation

Tools

LC-MS/MS instruments

Quality Manual SOPs

Job description

$3000 - $4999 per month

DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas . If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.

Employee Benefits

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page .

Job Details

• Functional Title: Chemist II
• Job Title: Chemist II
• Agency: Dept of State Health Services
• Department: Environmental Sciences
• Posting Number: 22989
• Closing Date: 05/04/2027
• Posting Audience: Internal and External
• Occupational Category: Life, Physical, and Social Science
• Salary Range: $4,815.12 - $5,537.39
• Pay Frequency: Monthly
• Salary Group: TEXAS-B-19
• Shift: Day
• Additional Shift: Days (First)
• Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
• Travel: Up to 5%
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• Full Time/Part Time: Full time
• FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
• Facility Location:
• Job Location City: AUSTIN
• Job Location Address: 1100 W 49TH ST (DBGL)
• Other Locations: Austin
• MOS Codes: 8831,43EX,43TX,4B0X1,4T0X1,61CX,9S100

Brief Job Description

Works on the PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) Team performing analysis on environmental samples. Works with team leaders on projects with moderate latitude for independent judgment to complete assigned tasks. Performs the preparation, extraction, and moderately complex analysis of samples for liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) using approved methods for the sample matrix. Performs all quality control (QC) measures required by the method and the standard operating procedure (SOP) and documents procedures accurately. Performs routine maintenance on equipment. Based on work area, consistently complies with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. Maintains supplies, follows inventory procedures, properly disposes of waste, and performs other duties as assigned. Manages sample load and tracks samples to meet required holding times. Assists with method development and validation projects. Follows all HHSC and DSHS Policies and Procedures.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs)

EJF 1. Chemistry/QC: Prepare and/or analyze samples for organic compounds by LC-MS/MS. Checks samples for proper preservative and container type. Prepares reagents and standards. Monitors expirations dates. Performs sample preparation techniques including liquid/liquid, solid phase extraction. Performs chemical reactions and derivatization following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Quality Manual requirements. Prepares and/or analyzes quality control samples according to SOPs. Calibrates instruments and verifies standards with reference material. Helps develop data acquisition parameters for identification of target compounds. Consults with team leader on complex spectral interpretation to determine the appropriate procedure for quantitation. Monitors quality control parameters as required by the method. Prepares dilutions as needed to meet the analytical range of the calibration curve. Performs first level review of data per SOP requirements. Submits data for second level review and approval before expiration of holding times or assigned deadlines. (60%)
EJF 2. Sample Management & Productivity: Accurately tracks samples. Prepares and/or analyzes samples to meet EPA holding times. Works to meet and exceed the on-time delivery goals by test and client at a productive rate. Productive rates are determined by historical productivity and work time unit evaluation. Extraction and analysis must be performed with acceptable QA/QC and SOP practices. (10%)
EJF 3. Quality Assurance / Document Control / Records Management: Reads and follows all policies, procedures and guidelines of the Quality Manual, USEPA Drinking Water Certification Manual, The NELAC Institute (TNI), reference methods, and administrative, analytical and quality assurance Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Remains current in all required training and actively participates in initial, ongoing and continuing education training. Performs initial demonstration of capability before working independently on samples. Maintains proficiency for assigned methods by performing Continuing demonstration of capability, method detection limit studies and participating in proficiency testing. Responds to any internal or external audit findings as responsible or assigned. Maintains complete, timely and accurate records of all procedures performed. (10%)
EJF 4. Equipment and Supplies: Operates and performs routine maintenance and verification of equipment as specified in SOPs and equipment manuals. Troubleshoots routine problems using equipment manuals, knowledge and experience. Maintains reagents and supplies by following laboratory procedures