Analytical Chemistry Technician

Job TitleAnalytical Chemistry TechnicianAgencyTexas A&M Agrilife ResearchDepartmentUvaldeProposed Minimum SalaryCommensurateJob LocationUvalde, TexasJob TypeStaffJob DescriptionAbout Texas A&M AgriLife Texas A&M AgriLife is comprised of the following Texas A&M University System members:Texas A&M AgriLife Extension ServiceTexas A&M AgriLife ResearchCollege of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M UniversityTexas A&M Forest ServiceTexas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic LaboratoryAs the nation’s largest most comprehensive agriculture program, Texas A&M AgriLife brings together a college and four state agencies focused on agriculture and life sciences within The Texas A&M University System. With over 5,000 employees and a presence in every county across the state, Texas A&M AgriLife is uniquely positioned to improve lives, environments and the Texas economy through education, research, extension and service.Click here to learn more about how you can be a part of AgriLife and make a difference in the world!Position InformationWe are seeking an Analytical Chemistry Technician, under general supervision, evaluates, selects and executes routine and advanced scientific techniques, and analyzes products using a variety of methodologies in the AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Uvalde. This position performs routine and complex sample preparation and testing.ResponsibilitiesPerform various extraction procedures, mainly plant samples, to enhance detection of elements and other compounds including antioxidants and sugars, which includes evaluating, selecting and executing routine and advanced scientific techniquesPerform assays, record, and report results for various principal investigatorsReview and/or modify existing methods to improve laboratory efficiency and accuracyPerform developmental and verification work for methods and processes for which no routine written method existsReview and prepares technical communications to ensure clarity of instructionsWrite and/or edit routine and complex SOPs, summaries, and/or presentationsUse technical and professional resources for professional development and enhancing laboratory methodologySample PreparationProcess samplesParticipate in sample processing by retrieving samples, ensuring samples are properly accessionedPrepare reagents, mixtures, standards and controls as neededTestingFollow procedures in conducting routine laboratory test methodsPerform advanced test methods requiring subjective evaluation and analysis of controls required, and troubleshoots routine assay and instrument problemsAnswers routine and complex/advanced questions about testsServe as subject matter specialist for specific test methods/techniquesEnter data and summarize resultsGenerate appropriate forms and test documentationOperate scientific and laboratory apparatus and equipment such as: Thermo Scientific 7000 series iCAP with Auto Sampler and Software, a Waters 2695 HPLC with Photodiode Array and Refractive Index Detector with Empower Software, Perkin Elmer Atomic Absorption Spectrometer and EasyChemplus Discrete AnalyzerUse and maintain laboratory equipment and other scientific apparatus including but not limited to centrifuges, balances, and pipettesPerform work in accordance with validated test methods, SOPs, procedures, employee training and proficiency, and equipment standards, as applicableOther DutiesOrder suppliesCoordinate service calls for equipment and submit work orders for facilities maintenanceUse computer equipment for controlling equipment and compiling dataComplete routine and preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment and instrumentationPromote workplace safety; use personal protective equipment while working with hazardous materialsFoster laboratory teamwork, cooperation, professional standards and communicationPerforms other duties as assignedRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in chemistry, or physical science or equivalent combination of education and experienceKnowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database applicationsKnowledge of a wide variety of laboratory equipment, collecting samples, performing analyses, chemical procedures, data entry, and computer recordsKnowledge of basic laboratory procedures and safety practicesAbility to multitask and work cooperatively with othersAbility to communicate clearly and effectively to ensure understandingPreferred QualificationsPreferred Qualifications: One year of related lab experienceAbility to ensure attention to detailAbility to work well with a teamAbility to communicate with colleaguesAbility to prioritize tasks and manage completing responsibilities in an organized mannerExperience using an Agilent 6890N GC with 7683B Auto SamplerExperience using a Thermo Scientific 7000 series iCAP with ASX-560 Auto Sampler with Qtegra SoftwareExperience using a Waters 2695 HPLC with 2996 Photodiode Array Detector and 2414 Refractive Index Detector with Empower SoftwareExperience with the Perkin Elmer AAnalyst 400 Atomic Absorption SpectrometerExperience with EasyChemplus Discrete AnalyzerWhat You Need To KnowSalary: Compensation for this position is commensurate based on the selected candidate’s qualifications.Location: Uvalde is a community of 16,000 people located in the Wintergarden region of southwest Texas, about an hour and a half from San Antonio. Much of the surrounding land is used for irrigated agriculture, although the Hill Country lies just to the north with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Center has about 150 acres of land for crop research/production and houses a staff of more than 50 people with active research programs in agronomy, horticulture, breeding and genetics, plant biochemistry, plant physiology, plant pathology and wildlife disease ecology.Why Work at Texas A&M AgriLife?When you choose to work for Texas A&M AgriLife, you become part of an organization that is an established leader in agriculture and life sciences with a wide range of capabilities to meet the needs of our statewide, national, and international constituents.In addition, Texas A&M AgriLife offers a comprehensive benefit packing including the following:Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M AgriLife contributing to employee health and basic life premiums 12-15 days of annual paid holidays Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each monthAutomatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas Employee Wellness Initiative for Texas A&M AgriLifeApplicant InstructionsApplicants should submit (1) a cover letter, (2) detailed curriculum vitae stating education, experience and qualifications, (3) and a list of three references with contact information as attachments to the completed application. Attachments can be uploaded as one document or multiple attachments can be included.For additional information contact Dr. Daniel Leskovar, Center Director by email at d-leskovar@tamu.edu or by phone at 830-988-6124. All inquiries are confidential.All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.