Analytical Chemist I (#MGBA01)
$48,182.00 Yearly Min / $64,243.00 Yearly Mid / $80,304.00 Yearly Max

Analytical Chemist II (#MGBA02)
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$57,897.00 Yearly Min / $77,196.00 Yearly Mid / $96,495.00 Yearly Max

Analytical Chemist III (#MGBA03)
We are currently accepting applications for this position. To apply, please close this pop-up window and then click on the link for Career Opportunities.
$65,456.00 Yearly Min / $87,275.00 Yearly Mid / $109,094.00 Yearly Max

Analytical Chemist IV (#MGBA04)
$74,141.00 Yearly Min / $98,854.00 Yearly Mid / $123,568.00 Yearly Max

This class series uses four levels in the Agriculture, Natural Resource and Sciences occupational group, Sciences occupational series and describes quantitative and qualitative chemical analysis of organic and inorganic materials and biological specimens.

Note: This career ladder series incorporates levels I, II, III and IV. Based on the level of work applicable to the employing agency and functional area, positions can be allocated up to level III or IV.  The I level is to provide entry for hiring new employees into the class series but does not preclude hiring new employees at higher levels. Employees may be promoted through the career ladder in accordance with minimum qualifications and promotional standards. Promotional standards, a selection document under separate cover, sets forth the criteria that defines and describes the requirements that must be met at each level.  Advancement of employees through the career ladder is dependent on an agency's/department's operational needs and distribution of work. 

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class.  Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Prepares samples for instrument analysis, interprets instrument recordings and documents test results.
   
• Uses analytical chemistry techniques including state-of-the-art instrumentation to gather data involving samples.
   
• Analyzes laboratory data to determine quantity and quality of toxins, pathogens, chemical and biochemical constituents.
   
• Prepares reports identifying samples, explains testing methods and documents findings and conclusions of analysis.

Analytical Chemist I

This is the entry level.

• Receives close supervision from a technical superior.
• Develops knowledge, skills and abilities related to the employing agency's projects and programs.
• Conducts various standardized laboratory duties which are carried out according to protocols and methods established by various state and federal agencies.
• May provide technical guidance to laboratory technicians.
• Contacts include peers, higher level chemists, scientists and engineers within the public and private sector.

Analytical Chemist II

This is the full performance level.

• Reports to a technical/administrative superior.
• Reviews background information, applicable regulations, the condition of the sample and the analysis requested.
• Develops and recommends modified methods that will produce the desired results while improving cost efficiency.
• Meets with laboratory customers to review project plans and test results.
• May assist with training lower level chemists and laboratory technicians.
• May maintain strict chain of custody procedures in handling, analysis, and preservation of evidence.
• May prepare standards, reagents, and reaction solvent mixes/chemicals.
• May be required to appear as an expert witness in court.
• Contacts include peers in other state and federal agencies, attorneys, law enforcement personnel, supply and instrument vendors and other laboratory customers.

Analytical Chemist III

This is the lead level. 

• Performs qualitative and quantitative characterizations of diverse and complex samples.
• Plans, coordinates and oversees laboratory analyses associated with compliance actions, emergency response, site studies, health/safety studies, investigations and remediation.
• Selects the methods and procedures, schedules and conducts or oversees the conduct of various analytical tests that will provide technically sound and legally defensible information.
• Performs data verification, coordinates and reviews work produced by lower level chemists and technical support staff.
• Reviews quality assurance plans and develops specifications for proposed laboratory analyses. Determines and recommends conditions for approval.
• May inspect/audit laboratory field activities and data to ensure the implementation of quality assurance throughout a laboratory entity.
• Contacts include peers in other state and federal agencies, attorneys, law enforcement personnel, supply and instrument vendors, lab customers, project engineers, scientists and/or medical professionals and public or private laboratories to plan and coordinate the analysis processes.

Analytical Chemist IV

This is the advanced level.

• Reports to an administrative superior.
• Develops parameters and oversees implementation of complex studies, surveys and investigations.
• Provides technical assistance to the Delaware and Federal Department of Justice, testifies as an expert for the State in court and public hearings and may respond to emergency situations.
• Provides technical guidance, direction and assistance to agency staff, other agencies, laboratories and consultants in the design and implementation of complex remedial actions and human health and ecological risk assessments on an interdepartmental, statewide and regional basis.
• Develops and implements quality systems, overseeing quality assurance, and reviewing project plans to ensure staff/consultants meet objectives in conjunction with applicable policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Represents the agency at various statewide, regional and national committees, councils and meetings and writes articles and technical reports for presentation and publication within the scientific community.
• Develops new and/or modified methods, techniques and procedures of analysis.
• Prepares program assessments, progress reports, budgetary activity, and special reports. Drafts budget proposals and grant applications.
• Reviews, comments and drafts legislation, regulatory measures and standards dealing with regional and statewide public health, resource protection or pollution control.
• Interprets complex data to support the formulation of policies and objectives. Provides recommendations that prove to be the basis for decisions having significant economic and financial impact on the regulated community.

The intent of the listed knowledge, skills and abilities is to give a general indication of the core requirements for all positions in the class series; therefore, the KSA's listed are not exhaustive or necessarily inclusive of the requirements of every position in the class.

• Knowledge of the principles, practices and theory of analytical chemistry.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of laboratory safety.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of quality control.
• Knowledge of the protocols applicable to sample custody, preservation, storage and ultimate disposal.
• Knowledge of laboratory testing instruments, procedures and equipment.
• Knowledge of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures applicable to assigned projects and programs.
• Knowledge of test data interpretation.
• Skill in performing precise measurements.
• Skill in selecting test methods and procedures.
• Ability to organize and prioritize, particularly as it involves time sensitive procedures/issues.
• Ability to operating and troubleshooting sensitive instruments.
• Ability in the application, operation and troubleshooting of computerized analytical data systems.
• Ability in recordkeeping, technical report preparation and general written communication.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills and abilities, the Analytical Chemist II requires:

• Knowledge of the procedures, methods and techniques of performing and interpreting chemical analysis.
• Knowledge of biochemistry as applicable to work assignments.
• Knowledge of statistics.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of field sampling.
• Knowledge of chemical laboratory procedures, equipment, media, reagents and supplies.
• Knowledge of the methods and techniques of recording, documenting, interpreting, and reporting chemical laboratory analysis.
• Skill in conducting data review.
• Skill in the application, care and maintenance and troubleshooting of state-of-the-art instrumentation and related computer equipment.
• Skill in selecting and modifying test methods and procedures, generating and interpreting chemical test data.
• Ability to select, adapt and develop the applicable methods and procedures.
• Ability to recognize and mediate diverse/conflicting priorities.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills and abilities, the Analytical Chemist III requires:

• Ability to interpret and verify complex scientific data.
• Ability to lead in a team environment, reviewing, planning and conducting laboratory tests.
• Ability to prepare accurate scientific reports.
• Ability to train others.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills and abilities, the Analytical Chemist IV requires:

• Knowledge of advanced principles, practices and theories of chemistry and other related disciplines.
• Knowledge of state and national goals and objectives pertaining to public health, resource protection or pollution control.
• Knowledge of the structure and functions of local, county and state government involving public health, resource protection or pollution control.
• Knowledge of socioeconomic factors impacting public health or environmental issues.
• Knowledge in planning, developing and directing special studies, surveys and investigative work pertaining to public health, resource protection or pollution control.
• Knowledge of state and federal budgetary/fiscal cycles, policies and procedures.
• Skill in the development and implementation of work methods for public health, resource protection or pollution control programs and projects.
• Skill in data interpretation, project analysis and evaluation.
• Skill in planning, coordinating and interpreting technical issues.
• Skill in analyzing, interpreting and explaining laws, rules, and regulations relating to public health, the protection of resources or the prevention of environmental pollution.
• Ability to design innovative and original methods, techniques and procedures to meet the needs and objectives of programs and projects.

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Analytical Chemist III
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

1. Three years experience in generating and interpreting chemical test data by performing quantitative and qualitative statistical analysis.
2. Three years experience in selecting and modifying laboratory test methods and procedures.
3. Six months experience in conducting data review to ensure numerical input, calculations, formulas and interpretation of output is accurate, instruments were operating according to specifications, analytical procedures were followed and documentation is complete.
4. Three years experience in physical, organic, inorganic or analytical chemistry.
5. Three years experience in using laboratory equipment and instrumentation including calibration and maintenance.
6. Six months experience in technical report writing.