Radiochemist

Augusta , Maine , United States | Laboratory | Full-time

Apply by: April 3, 2025

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Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)Chemist IOpening Date:March 21, 2025Closing Date: April 3, 2025Job Class Code:6401Grade: 21 (Pro/Tech)Salary: $44,803.20 - $62,691.20 per year**Plus an additional 10% stipendPosition Number: 02000-1954Location: Augusta

This unique position operates as a Chemist in the Radiochemistry Section of the Maine Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory (HETL) functioning in a specialized field of analytical chemistry. It is a small but very complex part of the lab that requires an individual with a keen eye for critical thinking and analytical skills. Exceptional computer and mathematical talents are critical, and an aptitude for independent functioning is necessary.

General responsibilities include the preparation, preservation, and analysis of radionuclides in environmental and drinking water samples in support of the State’s safe drinking water and Radiation Control programs. The range of analyses consists of radon air, radon water, gross alpha, gross beta, tritium, and gamma spectroscopy; with a wide variety of matrices being tested. This position will also assist with method development and be heavily involved with emergency procedures planning involving other state and federal agencies. A multitude of opportunities are available for the selected individual as this department establishes new and innovative ways to improve upon existing methodology and the emergency planning process in the event of an intentional or accidental radiological event.

Exciting educational and experiential advantages will be available to assist with personal and professional development.

Core Responsibilities:

As a key member of the HETL team, your core responsibilities will include:

• Analyzing drinking water and environmental monitoring samples and checking systems daily to ensure proper operation and quality control.

• Operating a variety of complex laboratory equipment including liquid scintillation counters, alpha-beta gas proportional counters, gamma detectors, and survey meters.

• Calibrating, cleaning, repairing, troubleshooting, and maintaining (or arranging for service on) laboratory equipment to perform assigned analyses.

• Preparing laboratory standards, solutions, and reagents.

• Assisting in the development of new methodology to improve the quality and efficiency of laboratory operations and analytical results.

• Discussing analytical results with the public to provide information and education, and consulting with federal and state agencies for auditing purposes or in any other capacity facilitating method or policy improvement.

• Preparing extensive statistical QC data analyses to certify analytical results and meet the requirements of established standards and methods.

• Assisting with hazardous waste procedures to maintain compliance, and to ensure the health and safety of lab personnel, the public, and that of the environment.

• Preparing cost estimates and placing orders of essential consumable supplies to maintain adequate resources for consistent and reliable laboratory operations.

• Performing drills and participating in laboratory response procedures in the event of an accidental or intentional release of radiological material.

• Developing and evaluating emergency procedures, both inter-departmental or in conjunction with other federal or state agencies.

• Collaborating with the National Guard Civil Support Team (CST), Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) the Radiation Control Program (RCP), and other state American Public Health (APHL) Laboratories.

• The revision or creation of SOPs and section manuals, and the documentation of all processes and requirements.

Minimum Qualifications:

(Entry level knowledges, skills, and/or abilities may be acquired through, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO the following coursework/training and/or experience).

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

Preferred candidates will also have:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• The ability to gather, analyze, and summarize a variety of information and data.

• Demonstrated skill with laboratory practices and complex analytical instrumentation.

• Strong math and computer skills, with a focus on Excel programming and familiarity with Microsoft Office and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).

• Experience with EPA and Standard Methods, as well as laboratory certification standards.

• Experience with laboratory quality control and quality assurance processes.

• Radionuclide or other chemical testing experience.

Thinking about applying?

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Agency information:

TheDepartment of Health and Human Services (https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/) (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 additional information about this position, contact Kimberly Buffum, Radiochemistry Supervisor, at (207) 287-1714.

Please submit all documents or files in PDF format.

To request a paper application, please contact Mandy.Hernandez@Maine.gov

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 , 12 days of sick leave , and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.

• Health Insurance Coverage – The State of Maine pays 85%-100% of employee-only premiums ($11,196.96 - $13,172.88 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.

• Dental Insurance – The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($358.08 annual value).

• Retirement Plan – The State contributes the equivalent of 13.29% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS).

• Parental leave is one of the most important benefits for any working parent. All employees who are welcoming a child—including fathers and adoptive parents—receivesix weeks of fully paid parental leave. Additional, unpaid leave may also be available, under the Family and Medical Leave Act .

  State employees are eligible for an extensive and highly competitive benefits package (https://www.maine.gov/bhr/state-jobs/compensation-benefits) , covering many aspects of wellness. Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from the Office of Employee Health and Wellness (https://www.maine.gov/bhr/oeh/) .

  Note: Benefits may vary somewhat according to specific collective bargaining agreements and are prorated for anything less than full-time.

There's a job and then there's purposeful, transformative work. Our aim is to create a workplace where you can learn, grow, and continuously refine your skills. Applicants demonstrate job requirements in differing ways, and we appreciate that many skills and backgrounds can make people successful in this role.

As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics.

If you’re looking for a great next step, and want to feel good about what you do, we’d love to hear from you. Please note reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.