This is analytical chemistry and research work at the full performance level performing a wide variety of complex assignments related to chemical analysis, planning and technical consultation. An employee in this class differs from the next lower level in that the employee is expected to make recommendations based on analysis, evaluations of test data and research findings and by the ability to utilize sophisticated instrumentation. The employee works with unknown substances that are potentially dangerous. Work is performed under the direction of a higher level chemical, laboratory, or engineering supervisor.

• Conducts quantitative and qualitative chemical analyses by using specific analytical chemistry methods such as alkalimetric, amperometric, and oxidation and reduction titrations, infra-red, visible, ultraviolet, atomic absorption spectroscopy, and gas and liquid chromatography; conducts a wide variety of complex and difficult analyses on water samples, ambient air samples, flammable water, organic tissue and other materials and compounds to detect, identify and/or quantify the presence of poisons, drugs, toxic organics, aerollergens, levels of radioactivity, asbestos and metals in water, etc., analyzes construction materials to determine standards compliance; decides what chemical tests and procedures are to be used in order to analyze for substances; interprets the significance of the analytical information obtained; consolidates and presents the results to administrative engineers, supervisors and other individuals both orally and in detailed written analysis reports.
• Performs research to determine new and/or revised methods for performing chemical analyses or to determine the effectiveness of current analytical methods; conducts necessary quality assurance procedures to validate all analytical results or sample collection procedures; may devise, modify or recommend modifications to such procedures as needed.
• Plans and implements research projects and special surveys related to drinking water quality and pollution control; prepares technical reports and position policy papers resulting from analysis and research findings; discusses data and issues with colleagues and other specialists; compiles information and submits verbal and written reports to supervisors.
• Advises, makes recommendations and cooperates with engineers and other operational personnel to devise plans for sampling, testing and analysis that provides required information; explains test results and effect on operations; calibrates and adjusts air and rain sampling equipment and positions equipment at sample collection sites; collects samples and subjects them to analysis; analyzes and evaluates sampling procedures and modifies them when necessary; modifies, assembles and may construct ambient air or rain water sampling equipment.
• Analyzes quality, composition and aesthetics of drinking water; determines quality of wastewater composition; determines if wastewater discharges comply with regulatory agency requirements; analyzes chemical composition of industrial wastes discharges into sewer system and other potentially hazardous wastes; responds to customer complaints concerning water quality; samples hazardous or toxic materials on local or remote sites; tests materials for performance characteristics and conformity to standards and specifications; analyzes ambient air and rain water samples to determine air quality levels and quantity of pollutants; analyzes tissue samples for toxics and other residue in support of pathologist's investigations.
• Reviews and evaluates test methods and procedures, and interprets data of lower level chemists and technicians; recommends alternate course of action to achieve desired results; trains employees in testing methods and procedures.
• Utilizes computer software to analyze results of tests in order to perform calculations; researches literature, pamphlets, journals, and books for use in devising methods and tests; devises mathematical charts, graphs, and tables as aids to conducting chemical tests; evaluates laboratory tests results in the area of concern.
• Appears in court to testify as an expert witness on individual findings of chemical and physical tests.
• Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• the principles, methods, and techniques of analytical chemistry.
• mathematics and statistics as they relate to analytical chemistry.
• safety practices and procedures as they apply to analyses in the laboratory.
• research methods and techniques and the current literature in the field of analytical chemistry.
• the rules of evidence and the methods used in presenting evidence in court.

• perform complex chemical analyses and to use quality assurance techniques with these methods.
• learn the operation, application, and basic maintenance of sophisticated chemical testing instruments and/or sampling equipment.
• conduct research into chemical methods and techniques.
• operate a computerized gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer.
• interpret the results of analytical tests in order to propose possible solutions.
• learn computer programming.
• prepare technical forms, reports, and other correspondence.
• express ideas effectively, both orally and in writing.
• establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, consultants, regulatory agencies, and the general public.

EDUCATION:

• Completion of a bachelor's degree program at an accredited college or university with major course work in chemistry or chemical engineering.
• Two years of analytical chemistry testing experience, one year of which shall have been above the beginning level.

NOTE:

For the first holding only of the examination for this class immediately following the specification revision of 7/87, experience performing: 1) complex biochemical analyses may be substituted on a year for year basis for up to two years of the educational requirement; and 2) analytical testing maybe substituted on a year for year basis for the required education.

PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required of a position in this class.

• Possession of a valid proper class motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania prior to appointment and during tenure of employment as an Analytical Chemist II if required by work assignment.

PAY RANGE: EP19
Class Established: 2/1982

Spec. Revision: 7/1987

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