Job summary
The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) works for the benefit of the state's citizens and supports the viability of agriculture and affiliated industries.This position includes the investigation, analysis, and interpretation of the composition, molecular structure, and properties of substances.Analyzes organic and inorganic compounds to determine chemical and physical properties.
Job seniority: mid-to-senior level
Responsibilities
• Supervises, directs, delegates, and evaluates work of assigned staff.• Assures accurate and timely analyses of chemicals.• Sets laboratory procedures.• Develops and monitors a quality assurance program to meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards.• Analyzes organic and inorganic compounds to determine chemical and physical properties.• Trains and supervises subordinate laboratory staff of professional, technical, and clerical personnel.• Maintains liaison with appropriate state, federal, and private organizations.• Performs related duties as required.• Assists in performing all operations of the laboratory to meet the needs of applicable regulatory programs.• Maintains standards for required lab certifications.• Resolves technical issues in an effective, efficient and timely manner.• Evaluates and maintains adequate laboratory equipment and quality assurance procedures including replacement of supplies.• Under limited supervision, perform, modify, and develop methods for chemical, physical or biological analysis.• Performs recording and mathematical or statistical analysis and interpretation of analytical results.• Monitors and improves laboratory programs and procedures.• May provide technical documentation or testimony in a compliance conference, formal hearing, court or other enforcement related actions.• Performs related duties as required.• Chemists with the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) determine the methodology (typically AOAC and/or EPA based with some instrument specific) to be used for testing samples including participation in Inter-laboratory comparisons with other State Laboratories.• Chemists perform routine chemical analyses of agricultural chemicals, feed materials and pesticides which include micro nutrients, adulterants, or hazardous chemicals in agricultural products or chemicals.• This position ensures that products sold in the state meet minimum standards for New Mexico.• Incumbents must have sound judgment and assume the responsibility for the completion of routine tests using standards prescribed by official state standards.• Chemists will also develop laboratory procedures, perform laboratory tests, analyze and interpret laboratory test results, and write concise reports.
Requirements
• Required Education: Bachelor's degree in a related field.• Required Experience: Three (3) years of professional experience related to the standard duties as outlined.• Equivalency: None• Required Certification/License:• Specific experience in the chemical analysis of feed (protein, fat, fiber, moisture, ash), fertilizer (via ICP-MS and/or ICP-OES) and/or pesticides (via GC, LC-MS, HPLC) is preferred.• Specific experience working in a GLP or ISO/IEC:17025 certified laboratory is preferred.• A Cover Letter and Unofficial Transcripts are required.• Must be able to obtain and maintain respirator medical approval and fit test requirements annually.
Key Skills Needed
• Short- and long-term planning• Problem analysis and resolution• Report preparation and presentation• Interpersonal and organizational communication, both oral and written• Develop and maintain effective working relationships• Maintain accurate and orderly records• Use independent judgment and initiative• Organize and direct activities
