Chemist 1
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Chemist 1
Salary
$51,971.00 - $79,062.00 Annually
Location
Dauphin County, PA
Job Type
Civil Service Permanent Full-Time
Job Number
CS-2026-40329-15120
Department
Department of Environmental Protection
Division
EP BL Organic Rdtn Biolgcl Srv
Opening Date
01/15/2026
Closing Date
1/29/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Job Code
15120
Position Number
00095396
Union
AFSCME
Bargaining Unit
B4
Pay Group
ST06
Bureau / Division Code
35/1520
Bureau / Division
EP BL Organic Rdtn Biolgcl Srvs Div
Worksite Address
2575 Interstate Drive
City
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Zip Code
17110
Contact Name
Susan Kreiser-Array
Contact Email
skreiserar@pa.gov
Description
Benefits
Questions
THE POSITION
The Department of Environmental Protection is actively looking to hire a Chemist 1 to join their team. This position involves conducting professional laboratory work that focuses on the analysis and examination of various substances and materials to identify environmentally significant analytes. Utilizing specialized equipment and adhering to established methodologies, the Chemist 1 will play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of environmental assessments. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about environmental science and laboratory work to contribute to meaningful projects. If you are interested in making a difference in environmental protection, we encourage you to apply now!
DESCRIPTION OF WORK
In this position, you will be tasked with conducting laboratory analyses and examinations of chemical substances and materials, playing a vital role in supporting essential Bureau operations that are influenced by varying workloads and program requirements. Your primary responsibilities will include receiving samples, extracting pollutants of interest from diverse matrices, and analyzing these samples through chromatography techniques.
Additionally, you will assist in the implementation, modification, and enhancement of existing methodologies, ensuring that analytical instrumentation is properly maintained. A strong emphasis will be placed on laboratory safety and adherence to Quality Assurance/Quality Control protocols. The primary focus of your analytical work will involve the volatile analysis of water, soil, and COWS using advanced techniques such as GC/MS with instruments like the HP5975 and HP5977. Furthermore, you will also engage in secondary analytical tasks, specifically targeting volatiles in drinking water through Method 524.3, utilizing the GC/MS HP5977 and Thermo ISQ7610 systems.
Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description (https://careers.employment.pa.gov/pd/PD_NEOGOV.asp?p=00095396) .
Work Schedule and Additional Information:
Full-time employment
Work hours are 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:
A bachelor's degree in chemistry; or
A bachelor's degree that includes 30 credits in chemistry or biochemistry.
Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree.
Condition of Employment:
This position requires possession of a valid Class C driver's license that is not under suspension.
Other Requirements:
You must meet the PA residency requirement (https://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx) . For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link (https://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx) and click on Residency.
You must be able to perform essential job functions.
How to Apply:
Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
Veterans:
Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.
Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):
711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).
If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.
The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.
EXAMINATION INFORMATION
Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
You must provide complete and accurate information or:
your score may be lower than deserved.
you may be disqualified.
You may only apply/testoncefor this posting.
Your results will be provided via email.
Learn more about our Total Rewards by watching this shortvideo (https://www.youtube.com/embed/HtcSRnndflc?rel=0) !
See the total value of your benefits package by exploring ourbenefits calculator.
Health & Wellness
We offer multiple health plans so our employees can choose what works best for themselves and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package includes health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.*
Compensation & Financial Planning
We invest in our employees by providing competitive wages and encouraging financial wellness by offering multiple ways to save money and ensure peace of mind including multiple retirement and investment plan options.
Work/Life Balance
We know there's more to life than just work! Our generous paid leave benefits include paid vacation, paid sick leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, military leave, and paid time off for most major U.S. holidays, as well as flexible work schedules and work-from-home opportunities.*
Values and Culture
We believe in the work we do and provide continual opportunities for our employees to grow and contribute to the greater good. As one of the largest employers in the state, we provide opportunities for internal mobility, professional development, and the opportunity to give back by participating in workplace charitable giving.
Employee Perks
Sometimes, it is the little "extras" that make a big difference. Our employees receive special employee-only discounts and rates on a variety of services and memberships.
For more information on all of these Total Rewards benefits, please visitwww.employment.pa.gov and click on the benefits box.
*Eligibility rules apply.
01
Condition of Employment- Do you possess a current driver's license which is not under suspension?
Yes
No
02
If you answered yes, please provide your driver's license number and expiration date. If you answered no, @type N/A in the text box below.
03
Do you possess or are you within 3 months of conferring a bachelor's degree in chemistry?
If you are claiming credits/degree, you must upload a copy of your college transcript(s) for this education to be considered in the eligibility decision. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You must attach your transcript(s) prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add transcript(s) to the application after it has been submitted. If you answer "Yes" to this question based on education acquired outside of the United States, you must upload a copy of your foreign credential evaluation report. We can only accept foreign credential evaluations from organizations that are members of the National Association of Credential Services (NACES). A list of current NACES members can be found by visitinghttps://www.naces.organd clicking the Evaluation Services link.
Yes
No
04
If you answered "Yes" to the above question, what date do you expect to receive your degree? If you answered "No" to the above question, please @type "N/A" in the text box below.
05
Do you possess or are you within 3 months of conferring a bachelor's degree that includes 30 credits in chemistry or biochemistry?
If you are claiming credits/degree, you must upload a copy of your college transcript(s) for this education to be considered in the eligibility decision. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You must attach your transcript(s) prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add transcript(s) to the application after it has been submitted. If you answer "Yes" to this question based on education acquired outside of the United States, you must upload a copy of your foreign credential evaluation report. We can only accept foreign credential evaluations from organizations that are members of the National Association of Credential Services (NACES). A list of current NACES members can be found by visitinghttps://www.naces.organd clicking the Evaluation Services link.
Yes
No
06
If you answered "Yes" to the above question, what date do you expect to receive your degree? If you answered "No" to the above question, please @type "N/A" in the text box below.
07
You must complete the supplemental questions below. These supplemental questions are the exam and will be scored. They are designed to give you the opportunity to relate your experience and training background to the major activities (Work Behaviors) performed in this position. Failure to provide complete and accurate information may delay the processing of your application or result in a lower-than-deserved score or disqualification. Youmustcomplete the applicationandanswer the supplemental questions. Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents willnotbe reviewed for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position or to determine your score.
All information you provide on your application and supplemental questions is subject to verification. Any misrepresentation, falsification or omission of material facts is subject to penalty. If requested, you must provide documentation, including names, addresses, and telephone numbers of individuals who can verify the validity of the information you provide in the application and supplemental questions.
Read each question carefully. Determine and select which "Level of Performance" most closely represents your highest level of experience/training. List the employer(s)/training source(s) from your Work or Education sections of the application where you gained this experience/training.The "Level of Performance" you choose must be clearly supported within the description of the experience and training information entered in your application or your score may be lowered.In order to receive credit for experience, you must have worked in a job for at least six months in which the experience claimed was a major function.
If you have read and understand these instructions, please click on the "Yes" button and proceed to the exam questions.
If you have general questions regarding the application and hiring process, please refer to ourFAQ page (https://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx) .
Yes
08
WORK BEHAVIOR 1 - PREPARE SAMPLES
Prepares standards, reagents, spikes and samples for examination of analytes from environmental samples (water soil, vegetation, air, tissue) using specialized equipment and techniques. Ensures proper preservatives are present. Organizes samples into batches for efficient processing within designated time frames.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have successfully completed two Environmental Chemistry classes with associated lab work OR I have completed an undergraduate research project related to preparation and analysis of environmental samples.
B. I have successfully completed one Environmental Chemistry class with associated lab work.
C. I have successfully completed a Chemistry class related to preparing samples, but NOT for analytes from environmental samples.
D. I have NO experience or training related to this work behavior.
09
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the text box below.
College/University
Course Title(s)
Credits/Clock Hours
10
In the text box below, please provide details concerning your undergraduate research project related to preparation and analysis or environmental samples. If you claimed you have no experience related to research, @type N/A in the text box below.
11
WORK BEHAVIOR 2 - ANALYZES SAMPLES
Performs analysis of samples to determine the presence and concentration of specific analytes using appropriate and approved methods and equipment while following standard operating procedures and published methods. Calibrates and prepares instruments before sample evaluation to ensure optimal analytical conditions. Evaluates positive and negative controls, duplicates and spike recoveries to ensure results are accurate and determines if any contamination is present. Labels and disposes of hazardous waste following standard operating procedures.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have experience in which I was responsible for instrument calibration, quantitation of analytes using standard or published methods AND evaluation of quality controls and recoveries OR I have successfully completed an Instrumental Chemistry/Analysis class with associated lab work.
B. I have successfully completed an Analytical Chemistry class with associated lab work AND I have completed an undergraduate research project using analytical instrumentation.
C. I have successfully completed an Analytical Chemistry class with associated lab work.
D. I have NO experience or training related to this work behavior.
12
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the box below.
The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
Details regarding your experience related to instrument calibration, quantitation of analytes using standard or published methods.
Details regarding your experience evaluating quality controls and recoveries.
13
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the text box below.
College/University
Course Title(s)
Credits/Clock Hours
14
In the text box below, please provide details concerning your undergraduate research project using analytical instrumentation. Please provide a list of analytical instrumentation (Ex. gas or liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, atomic absorption, UV/Vis spectroscopy) and how it was used during your undergraduate research project. If you claimed you have no experience related to research, @type N/A in the text box below.
15
WORK BEHAVIOR 3 - DATA MANAGEMENT
Documents the results of all analytical quality control measures. Inputs sample results into a Laboratory Information Management System and approves data to generate reports of sample results in a timely manner. Interprets the raw analytical data to determine result accuracy.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have successfully completed an Analytical Chemistry course with related lab work involving assessment of quality control measures AND a course in Statistics.
B. I have successfully completed an Analytical Chemistry course with related lab work involving assessment of quality control measures.
C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework that analyzed data accuracy charts using Excel or other database software.
D. I have NO experience or training related to this work behavior.
16
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the text box below.
College/University
Course Title(s)
Credits/Clock Hours
17
WORK BEHAVIOR 4 - QUALITY ASSURANCE AND QUALITY CONTROL
Reads, understands and implements quality assurance procedures using standard operating procedures. Maintains records of sample chain of custody and accurate/thorough documentation of the work performed to ensure the legal defensibility of analytical results. Initiates corrective action plans as required. Performs required periodic quality assurance activities including Minimum Detection Limits, Demonstration of Capability, and interference checks to ensure conformance with required practices.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have professional experience in reading, understanding and implementing quality assurance procedures AND in maintaining records of sample chain of custody and documentation of analytical work processes.
B. I have successfully completed a Forensic Chemistry course (involving quality assurance procedures) with associated lab work.
C. I have NO experience or training related to this work behavior.
18
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the box below.
The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
Details regarding your experience related to reading, understanding and implementing quality assurance procedures.
Details regarding your experience related to maintaining records of sample chain of custody and documentation of analytical work processes.
19
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the text box below.
College/University
Course Title(s)
Credits/Clock Hours
20
WORK BEHAVIOR 5 - WRITTEN COMMUNICATION
Updates written technical procedure documents to reflect current processes. Composes responses to sample collectors regarding analytical results or procedures and writes corrective action reports based on any unacceptable quality or sample data.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have experience updating written technical procedure documents to reflect current processes AND writing corrective action reports based on unacceptable quality or sample data. I was responsible for writing the COMPLETE document.
B. I have successfully completed college-level coursework or training related to technical writing, report writing, English composition, or nonfiction writing.
C. I have NO experience or training related to this work behavior.
21
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the box below.
The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
The @type(s) of written technical procedure documents you were responsible for.
The @type(s) of corrective action reports based on unacceptable quality or sample data you were responsible for.
22
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework or training, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the text box below.
College/University/Training Source
Course Title(s)
Credits/Clock Hours
Required Question
Employer
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Address
613 North Street
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 17120
Website
http://www.employment.pa.gov
