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Job Responsibilities
Careers at DHEC: Work that makes a difference!
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Performs high complexity analysis of clinical specimens for exposure to opioids and other drugs of abuse in support of the CDC’s Overdose Data to Action Cooperative Agreement. Performs qualitative chemical analysis and interprets highly complex and varied analytical chemistry procedures for organic substances using HRMS and LC-MS/MS.
Conducts specimen preparation and analytical procedures for the detection of opioids and other drugs of abuse. Drugs of abuse include but are not limited to opioids (including fentanyl and fentanyl analogs), stimulants, and benzodiazepines.
Research, develop, validate, and implement approved chemical bio surveillance and biomonitoring methods in support of public health initiatives. Perform scientific mathematical calculations, prepare reports, and effectively communicate data/results to colleagues and stakeholders.
Strictly adhere to and maintain quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) protocols and regulations. Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of analytical instrumentation and equipment. Learn and utilize LIMS and other software used by the Public Health Laboratory. Work closely with senior chemists on method selection, development, and improvement projects.
Monitor supply inventories and expendables. Maintains a clean laboratory environment and strictly adheres to all safety protocols. Periodically attend meetings, trainings, and conferences related to work.
Minimum And Additional Requirements
State Minimum Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in chemistry and experience in a laboratory setting related to the area of employment, including experience in operating and interpreting test results from complex analytical instrumentation such as gas, ion or liquid chromatographs or atomic absorption spectrophotometers; or a bachelor’s degree in the natural sciences with academic credits in chemistry and experience in a laboratory setting related to the area of employment, including experience in operating and interpreting test results from complex analytical instrumentation such as gas, ion or liquid chromatographs or atomic absorption spectrophotometers. A doctorate in chemistry may be substituted for the required work experience.
Institutions of Higher Learning must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
AGENCY ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must be able to make visual observations of specimens, reports, etc. Must be able to bend, climb, and stoop in order to work on lab instrumentation. Must be able to stand and lean forward for long periods of time while processing specimens in a fume hood or BSC. Must have the ability to lift 30lbs to counter top level. Must be able to learn complex instrumentation and computer software
Applicants indicating college credit or degree(s) on the application may upload an unofficial copy of the transcript as an attachment to the application. Please note that the agency will require an official, certified copy of the transcript or diploma prior to hiring.
Preferred Qualifications
A Master’s Degree in Chemistry with at least one (1) year of experience working with analytical instrumentation and equipment including one or more of the following: LC-MS/MS, GC/MSD, ICP-MS, and/or HRMS with emphasis on analytical chemistry. A strong background in Mass Spectrometry (MS), method development, separation science, instrument software, and computers is highly desired. Preference given to those with toxicology and clinical analytical chemistry experience. Experience with HRMS and method development highly desired..
Additional Comments
DRIVING RECORD: If this position requires the applicant to possess a valid driver’s license to operate a state vehicle or personal vehicle, any applicant being considered in the final stages of selection for the position will be required to provide a certified copy of a 10-year driving record.
SC DHEC is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employing agency. We are committed to a diverse workforce. SC DHEC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes:
• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs
• REMOTE WORK: The option to work partially remote or adjusted work hours may be available after six (6) months of employment for approved positions
This position is part of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control’s Chemistry Division, Analytical Chemistry Section/Public Health Laboratory. The work performed supports DHEC’s mission to improve the quality of life for all South Carolinians by protecting and promoting the health of the public and the environment. Effective July 1, 2024, this position will transfer to the South Carolina Department of Public Health created by Senate Bill 399 which provides for the creation of the Department of Public Health to assume the public health-related functions of DHEC.
