Radiochemist

Department of Marine Resources; Augusta (ME); On-site; USD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

13 paid holidays

3+ weeks of vacation leave

Health insurance coverage

Retirement plan

Job summary

The Radiochemistry department of Maine's Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory is seeking a motivated Chemist I in Augusta. You will prepare and analyze radiochemical samples, document standards, and ensure quality control while contributing to emergency response readiness.

Preferred candidates have radiochemistry knowledge and experience with instrumentation calibration; strong data handling and technical writing skills are a plus.

Qualifications

• Four-year combination of education, training, and/or experience in chemistry or related field.
• Knowledge of radiochemistry principles (preferred).
• Experience with instrumentation calibration and repairs (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Prepare and analyze radiochemical samples.
• Prepare and document standards and reagents.
• Ensure quality control by following SOPs.
• Prepare cost estimates and order laboratory supplies.
• Participate in emergency response procedures and drills.
• Assist in method development and validation.
• Collaborate with Maine Radiation Control Program to improve radiation safety.

Skills

Radiochemistry principles

Data analysis with spreadsheets

Technical writing

Programming basics

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemistry or related field

Tools

Radiochemistry instrumentation

Job description

Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)

Chemist I

Opening Date: November 3, 2026

Closing Date: November 17, 2026

Job Class Code: 6401

Grade: 21 (04)

Salary: $24.76 - $34.65 per hour *

*This is inclusive of a 10.00% recruitment and retention stipend

Position Number: 02000-1954

Location: Augusta

Currently, this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions.

Core Responsibilities

The Radiochemistry department in Maine's Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory is looking for a motivated chemist with experience in sample preparation and analysis. We are seeking candidates committed to producing quality data, continuous process improvement, safe laboratory practices, and contributing to our laboratory emergency response team. Prior radiochemistry experience is preferred but not required.

• Prepare and analyze radiochemical samples
• Prepare and document standards and reagents
• Ensure quality control by following laboratory policies and standard operating procedures
• Prepare cost estimates and order laboratory supplies
• Participate in laboratory emergency response procedures and drills
• Assist in method development and validation
• Collaborate with internal and external groups, notably the Maine Radiation Control Program, to improve radiation safety

Minimum Qualifications

A four (4) year combination of education, training, and/or experience in chemistry or directly related field.

Preferred candidates will also have

• Knowledge of radiochemistry principles
• Experience maintaining, calibrating, and fixing radiochemistry instrumentation
• Proficiency working with data in spreadsheets and/or programming software
• Experience with technical writing and presentations

Thinking about applying?

Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. If you're currently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your experience and passion set you apart.

Agency information

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is dedicated to promoting health, safety, resilience, and opportunity for Maine people. The Department provides health and social services to approximately a third of the State's population, including children, families, older Mainers, and individuals with disabilities, mental illness, and substance use disorders. The Department also promotes public health, operates two state psychiatric hospitals, and provides oversight to health care providers.

The mission for the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC), within which this position is located, is to develop and deliver services to preserve, protect, and promote the health and well-being of the citizens of Maine.

Application Information

For questions about these positions, please contact Tyler Huth at [e-mail]

Benefits of working for the State of Maine

No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto-"Dirigo" or "I lead"-as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including:

• Work-Life Fit - Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave. When you or immediate members of your family are ill, utilize 12 days of sick leave per year.
• Health Insurance Coverage - The State of Maine pays 85%-95% of employee-only premiums ($12,213.60 - $13,650.48 annual value) , depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.
• Health Insurance Premium Credit - Participation decreases employee-only premiums by 5% . Visit the Office of Employee Health and Wellness for more information about program requirements .
• Dental Insurance - The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($365.28 annual value).
• Retirement Plan - The State contributes the equivalent of 14.06% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS), on behalf of the employee.
• Gym Membership Reimbursement - Improve overall health with regular exercise and receive up to $40 per month to offset this expense.
• Health and Dependent Care Flexible Sp