Position Function:
This position performs laboratory analyses utilizing standard methodologies and procedures. It typically performs laboratory tasks, including instrument-based analyses. This classification works under direction from senior staff.
Salary Grade: 13
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
Mississippi State Chemical Laboratory (MSCL) is a state-appropriated regulatory agency for the State of Mississippi as well as a fee-for-service laboratory located on the campus of Mississippi State University. Our mission is to provide analytical data to ensure the quality, accurate labeling and safety of all fertilizers, animal feeds, human foods pesticides, and petroleum products sold in the State of Mississippi.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Perform duties with focus on customer service, such as: sample custody, laboratory
preparatory work of samples, chain-of-custody protocols, use of the LIMS for sample
tracking and data entry.
2. Ensures that all assigned analyses are performed within required holding times and
laboratory established turnaround times.
3. Performs assigned analyses according to established QA/QC requirements, including
all documentation and verifies that analytical level quality control criteria are met as
required for compliance with appropriate regulations promulgated by federal agencies,
state agencies, and other regulatory bodies.
4. Participates in proficiency tests (PTs) including conceptual knowledge to demonstrate
analytical competency.
5. Calculates results generated in the process of laboratory analyses, evaluates against
QA/QC standards, and reports final data.
6. Performs duties in advanced-level analytical techniques that could include: GC,
GC/MS, LC, HPLC, ICP, ICP/MS, microbiological and/or other analyses as
appropriate in areas of Chemical Regulatory, Industrial and Agricultural Services,
Research, or Petroleum Products.
7. May maintain lab supply inventories and purchasing records.
8. May assist in preparatory work for more advanced procedures.
9. As a team member, participates in implementation of updated and new protocols and
procedures.
10. Acquires new knowledge in the field by reading, attending seminars and workshops;
participates in continuing education.
11. Performs related duties as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibility
Does not have supervisory responsibility.
The above essential duties are representative of major duties of positions in this position. Specific duties and
responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs. Other duties may be assigned to the above consistent
with the knowledge, skills and abilities required for the job. Not all of the duties may be assigned to a position.
Minimum Qualifications:
A professional employee with a bachelor’s degree and demonstrated competence can begin
work at the Lab Analyst I level. To start at the Lab Analyst II level, one must have a
bachelor’s degree, a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience, and the equivalent of a
master’s degree. For the Lab Analyst III level, a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of 6 years of
relevant experience, and the equivalent of a master’s degree are required.
Alternatively, a professional employee with a master’s degree and a minimum of 1 year of
relevant experience, along with demonstrated competency, can begin work at the Lab Analyst
II level. To start at the Lab Analyst III level, one must have a master’s degree and a minimum
of 3 years of experience.
Indicated education is required; no substitutions allowed.
Preferred Qualifications:
1. Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or in a related field.
2. Demonstrate competence in the principles, methods, and techniques of analytical chemistry.
3. Field and laboratory work experience beyond the minimum required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Thorough knowledge of good laboratory practices (GLP), methodologies, and safety.
• Thorough knowledge of concepts and principles of chemistry, biology, mathematics, microbiology and/or other related scientific fields.
• Thorough knowledge of relevant regulations and quality control standards.
• Ability to uphold principles of laboratory ethics as applied to the production of valid analytical data.
• Possess problem-solving skills.
• Ability to pay attention to detail and precision in conducting experiments and reviewing results.
• Ability to adapt and learn to apply new techniques and technologies.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to pass all proficiency tests and competencies.
• Skilled in using laboratory equipment and computer software to conduct sample and data analysis.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Work in this class series is typically performed in a laboratory environment. It may require lifting up to 50 pounds; collecting samples in all weather conditions; wearing protective gear; being exposed to hazardous materials; working a flexible schedule including afternoons, evenings, designated holidays, and/or weekends.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
All applicants must apply online and attach a cover letter, current resume or curriculum vitae, and the complete contact information for at least three professional references. Search, screening, and selection process will begin as soon as the required posting period is completed.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
