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Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
Chemist III
Opening Date: October 13, 2026
Closing Date: October 26, 2026
Job Class Code: 6403
Grade:27 (Supervisory)
Salary: $71,198.40 - $100,526.40 per year*
*This is inclusive of a 10.00% recruitment and retention stipend
Position Number: 20002-4701
Location: This is a full-time position located in Augusta. This position allows for partial telework with manager approval.
Currently, this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions.
Job Description:
The Maine CDC Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory (HETL) plays a critical role in protecting the health and safety of Maine communities. Within HETL, the Forensic Chemistry Section (FCS) provides seized drug and forensic toxicology testing services to the citizens of Maine.
This position serves as the supervisor of the seized drug testing unit, providing both technical leadership and day-to-day operational oversight within the Forensic Chemistry Section. Primary responsibilities include:
Core Responsibilities:
As a key member of the HETL FCS team, your core responsibilities will include:
• Oversee daily operations of the Seized Drug Unit
• Ensuring seized drug cases are completed efficiently and on schedule
• Communicating with law enforcement and the legal partners to prioritize rush cases and coordinate analysts availability for court dates
• Receive Training and in all testing methods and apply that knowledge to assist with seized drug analysis as needed
• Participating in proficiency testing and annual internal audits
• Conduct Technical reviews of seized drug cases
• Testify in court regarding results of seized drug cases as required
• Training and mentor new analysts
• Leading validations of new instruments and methods
Minimum Qualifications:
A Bachelors Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related laboratory science and four (4) years professional level experience in analytical chemistry. Equivalent experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis.
Preferred candidates will also have:
• A minimum of six years' experience in a forensic or analytical laboratory with at least two years' experience in a supervisory role
• Experience working in an accredited forensic laboratory, and knowledge of ANAB Forensic Testing Laboratory Accreditation including ISO/IEC 17025 and AR 3125 standards
• Hands on experience with advanced analytical instrumentation, including GC/MS, FTIR and LC/MS
• Ability to meet State of Maine certification standards for Persons Conducting Chemical Analysis for the Detection and Identification of Drugs (DHHS Rule 10-144 Chapter 266)
• Knowledge of seized drug standards and recommendations (SWGDRUG, OSAC, etc.)
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Agency information:
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is dedicated to promoting health, safety, resilience, and opportunity for Maine people. The Department provides health and social services to approximately a third of the State's population, including children, families, older Mainers, and individuals with disabilities, mental illness, and substance use disorders. The Department also promotes public health, operates two state psychiatric hospitals, and provides oversight to health care providers.
The mission for the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC), within which this position is located, is to develop and deliver services to preserve, protect, and promote the health and well-being of the citizens of Maine.
Application Information:
For additional information about this position please contact Samson Omole, Health & Environmental Testing Laboratory Director at