NMDA State Chemist

Department Contact: Cheryl Mason-Herrera, 575-646-7523, cmason@nmda.nmsu.edu

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Advertising Summary: The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) works for the benefit of the state’s citizens and supports the viability of agriculture and affiliated industries. NMDA promotes food protection, a uniform, and fair marketplace, and global marketing and economic development; supports the beneficial use of natural resources; and works cooperatively with public and private sector entities. Opportunities for excellence abound, and NMDA staff dedicate themselves to proactive service in fulfilling the department’s mission. Each division plays an important role in carrying out the goals and objectives. Our rich agricultural history, culture, and traditions are addressed through new and innovative approaches using the latest in science, technology, and economic strategies. In New Mexico, we contribute to the safest and most affordable, and nutritious food supply on the globe.

NMDA is a constitutional agency organized under the Board of Regents of New Mexico State University (NMSU). This unique relationship creates efficiencies and opportunities for New Mexico’s food and agriculture sector as well as service and outreach opportunities for NMSU, making NMDA an integral part of the university. NMDA/NMSU is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.

Position Details

Position Title: NMDA State Chemist

College/Division: New Mexico Dept of Agriculture

Department: 180600-NMDA STATE CHEMIST LABORATORY

Location: Las Cruces

Offsite Location (if applicable):

Target Hourly/Salary Rate: Commensurate with Education and Experience

Appointment Full-time Equivalency: 1.0

FLSA Status: Exempt

Bargaining Unit Announcement: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon funding

Standard Work Schedule: Standard (M-F, 8-5)

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: 

Job Duties and Responsibilities: This position serves as the technical expert for operations of a regulatory agency laboratory for review and revision of analytical procedures and capabilities and incorporation of new analysis or equipment based on statutory requirements and need of regulated industry. The State Chemist is expected to exercise independent judgment in determining specifics and priorities.

The State Chemist reviews the work of staff to determine the completeness or accuracy of tasks and adherence to policy, oversees and assists in performing all operations of the laboratory to meet requirements of applicable regulatory programs and maintain standards for required laboratory certifications. Resolve technical issues in an effective, efficient and timely manner.

The State Chemist performs, modifies, and develops methods for chemical, physical, or biological analysis as well as consults on field sampling, handling and preservation procedures; performs recording and mathematical or statistical analysis and interpretation of analysis results; monitors, assesses and improves laboratory programs and procedures; verifies all practices and procedures are in compliance with program standards and provides technical documentation or testimony in a compliance conference, formal hearing, court or other enforcement related action.

The State Chemist is responsible for developing an understanding and applying the applicable laws, codes, statutes, regulations, and standards to ensure compliance with applicable federal and state safety laws, codes, and regulations; schedules work unit staff meetings; participates in problem solving and decision making.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience: 
Associate's Degree + 8 years of relevant experience or a Bachelor's degree + 6 years of relevant experience. Master's degree or higher preferred.

Equivalent Qualifications: 

Preferred Qualifications: 
Experience in laboratory accreditation, management, laboratory quality control, applicable ISO/IEC standards and quality management systems. Specific experience in the chemical analysis of feed (protein, fat, fiber, moisture, ash), fertilizer (NPK via combustion or ICP-MS and/or ICP-OES) and/or pesticides (via GC, LC-MS/MS, HPLC, and other) including method development/adaptation is preferred. Specific experience working in a GLP or ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory is preferred. This position is NOT research related, it is a regulatory lab and will be 55% or greater working in the laboratory at the bench in the areas listed above.

Special Certification/Licensure: 
Must be able to obtain and maintain respirator medical approval and fit test certification annually.

A Cover Letter and Unofficial Transcripts are required.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work involves almost constant exposure to unusual elements: i.e. extreme temp, toxic chemicals, biohazardous materials, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, loud noises, other potentially dangerous materials/situations that require safety precaution/protective equip

Physical Effort: Moderate physical activity.

Lifting Requirements: Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects up to 50 pounds.

Risk: Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.