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Job Title

Scientist II - Chemist

Agency

Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

Department

Analytical Chemistry

Proposed Minimum Salary

$7,083.34 monthly

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Job Description Summary

The Scientist II, under general supervision, performs complex diagnostic assays using state of the art equipment and techniques. Interpret test results, communicate with clients and collaborate with colleagues. May teach, train, and mentor others. Oversees the maintenance of the physical area within the laboratory. Develops and validates diagnostic assays and creates associated procedures. Implements new technologies and diagnostic capabilities.

Responsibilities

Sample Preparation, Sample Cataloging

Oversees sample processing and preparation and provides training and correction when necessary. Performs complex sample preparation and/or extraction techniques per kit inserts and SOPs; and trains others in these techniques. Responsible for samples collected/cataloged for assay research and validation.

Testing

Participates in routine diagnostic testing. Prepares reagents, standards and controls. Troubleshoots complex assay or instrument problems by recognizing sources of possible errors and implementing steps for resolution of errors or process improvements. Ability to implement and troubleshoot non-routine assays. Proficient in all tests run at the section. Participates in programs when relevant to the discipline. May analyze split samples and referred samples from other laboratories for confirmation.

May review and release results for tests performed by others. Interprets results that require complex subjective evaluation. Reviews and makes adjustments to observations, results and measurements when scientifically appropriate. Participates in investigation of unexpected results. May create new comments and tests and modify existing tests.

Client Communication

Communicates test results, interpretations, recommendations, and answers complex questions. Interacts with clients in the identification and development of new assays. Participates in and/or leads meetings with industry representatives to discuss and design research efforts.

Quality Assurance & Safety

Leads by example in regard to quality assurance and safety activities amongst technicians. Monitors control charts for acceptable assay performance and initiates and documents corrective actions when necessary. Leads resolution of noncompliance and non-conformance. Assists section managers with audits and visits by external clientele and agencies. Responsible for safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals when relevant.

SOPs, Procedures, Forms, Other Documentation

Serves as subject matter expert for one or more assays, protocols or instruments used in routine laboratory testing. Writes and/or edits SOPs for routine procedures. Serves as document editor for SOPs, procedures, forms or other documents related to section protocols.

Research, Reference Materials, Test Development

Leads new assay development and validation, including test development, instrument configuration and documentation of assay protocols. Proactively seeks training and educational opportunities to learn about new technologies and processes.

Supplies, Stock, Inventory, Equipment

Responsible for ensuring instrumentation is calibrated, maintenance is performed and documented, and all technical aspects are in proper working order. Troubleshoots routine instrument problems and corresponds with vendors to implement repairs. Responsible for quality control monitoring of routine laboratory instruments and equipment, including but not limited to thermometers, pipettes, timers, balances and eyewash stations. Ensures appropriate stocking and inventory for supplies, reagents and chemicals.

Administrative Roles

Serves as liaison with other testing sections to resolve accessioning, sample, or other paperwork issues associated with diagnostic cases. Assists in monitoring and record keeping for legal cases and “hold” cases. Assists in drafting and aids in implementing laboratory policies and procedures. Works closely with Diagnostic Services, Section Heads and Veterinary Pathologists in coordinating testing of multiple assigned cases. Serves as a subject matter resource for colleagues in other locations.

Teamwork & Cooperation

Fosters laboratory teamwork, cooperation, professional standards and communications. Collaborates with colleagues in other sections, TVMDL locations and other veterinary diagnostic laboratories across the country in development and pursuit of scientific advancement. Participates in industry recognized meetings and affiliations to gain knowledge within the relevant scientific disciplines and industries. May participate in flex scheduling, including work prior to 8 AM, after 5 PM, on weekends or on holidays.

Other

Works in conjunction with Diagnostic Services and Marketing to actively promote new or modified tests, TVMDL services or other client-education topics by writing and/or editing copy, speaking at conferences or meetings, or participating in TVMDL-sponsored exhibit shows. Assists/hosts/leads programs for 4-H students, career fairs, student tours and other lab guests.

Work shall be performed with adherence to federal, state, Texas A&M University System, and TVMDL safety rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Performs work in such a way as to not expose others or the employee to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods.

Laboratory environment with routine exposure to chemicals, biological materials, and instrumentation. Ability to stand, lift up to 25–40 lbs, and perform laboratory bench work for extended periods. Occasional travel for training, conferences, or interagency collaboration. Performs other job-related duties as required.

Additional Position Details

+ Incumbent will be required to take a pre-exposure rabies vaccination series; TVMDL will cover all costs.

+ Occasional in-state travel is required. Operates assigned equipment in a safe manner and in adherence to all TAMUS, AgriLife, and TVMDL policies as well as local, state, and federal laws.

+ Staff may be asked to travel in urgent scenarios. The analytical chemistry section is typically closed for testing on weekends; however, staff may be asked to verify instrument status on occasion.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience:

+ Master's degree or higher in a related field or any equivalent combination of training and experience.

+ Three years of related experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

+ Advanced knowledge of section-specific discipline. Knowledge of quality assurance and safety programs in a laboratory.

+ Ensures attention to detail.

+ Able to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

+ Able to perform assigned assays with minimal technical supervision and considerable independent decision making.

+ Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Required Licenses, Certifications, Registrations:

+ Must have a valid Texas motor vehicle operator’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of employment.

Preferred Education and Experience:

+ PharmD, or PhD in well-aligned field.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

+ Demonstrated experience with instrumental analysis (LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, or comparable platforms).

+ Ability to interpret clinical, pathological, and analytical data in an integrated diagnostic context.

+ Familiarity with ISO/IEC 17025, AAVLD accreditation, QA/QC systems, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

+ Research or case experience involving livestock, companion animals, wildlife, or feed contamination.

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.