Environmental Laboratory Scientist

Class Definition

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: To conduct standard chemical, physical, or microbiological tests, analysis and examinations of a wide scope of environmental, organic and inorganic materials in a laboratory for the purpose of determining the identity and composition of materials and/or to identify the presence and/or concentration of microorganisms, foreign or toxic substances; and to do related work as required. SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Work is subject to review in process and upon completion for conformance to prescribed instructions and standard laboratory methods. SUPERVISION EXERCISED: As required, may oversee, instruct, and review the work of subordinates assigned to assist.

Illustrative Examples of Work Performed

To conduct standard chemical, physical, or microbiological tests, analysis and examinations of a wide scope of environmental, organic and inorganic materials in a laboratory for the purpose of determining the identity and composition of materials and/or to identify the presence and/or concentration of microorganisms, foreign or toxic substances. To conduct quantitative and qualitative chemical or microbiological analysis of air or drinking and bathing water, sewage, industrial wastes and/or other waters involved in pollution control studies, etc. To perform chemical tests or microbiological analyses of meat and food products to determine condition, purity and quality, and conformity to state and federal regulations. To do chemical laboratory work in the field of industrial hygiene for the purpose of determining the presence and concentration of toxic substances in air samples and in commercial materials used in, or resulting from, various manufacturing processes. To keep records of tests and analyses and to make reports as required. To participate in maintaining a quality assessment and improvement program. To perform quality control procedure and identify compliance with standards. To comply with all applicable governmental laws and regulations and institutional policies and procedures. To perform technical review of laboratory data. To do related work as required.

Required Qualifications for Appointment

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND CAPACITIES: A thorough knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of chemistry, biochemistry or microbiology; a thorough knowledge of laboratory methods and procedures; skill in the performance of chemical tests or microbiological analyses; the ability to analyze biological or chemical data and present conclusions in acceptable reports; and related capacities and abilities. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Education: Such as may have been gained through: graduation from a college of recognized standing with a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry or related science.

Supplemental Information

An environmental scientist in this role will focus on testing drinking water for a variety of organic contaminants including, but not limited to, disinfection byproducts, herbicides, pesticides, semi-volatile and volatile organic compounds. Additional responsibilities may involve the testing of other environmental matrices, including recreational water, surface water and food. A scientist in this position will be using a variety of laboratory equipment and instruments including GC, GC/MS, LC, LC-MS while adhering to regulatory standards. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams on providing laboratory services to environmental health programs is essential.

RIDOH's mission is to prevent disease and protect and promote the health and safety of the people of Rhode Island. RIDOH's strategic priorities focus on addressing the socioeconomic and environmental determinants of health, eliminating health disparities, promoting health equity, and ensuring access to quality health