Environmental Chemist in , us

Role Overview

This position is responsible for overseeing and managing the Urban Air Toxics Program canister cleaning and certification duties. Toxic Volatile Organic Compounds are monitored per the commitments in the Environmental Performance Partnership Agreements (EnPPA)/Performance Partnership Grants (PPG) Program. Canisters are cleaned in an oven, then certified by analysis on a Gas Chromatograph/Mass Spectrometer to ensure all TO-15 compounds are at a negligible level. The position also serves as a backup for the Photochemical Assessment Monitoring Station (PAMS) as required by 40 CFR 58, Appendix D.

Responsibilities

• Analyze ambient air samples and perform method development limits, calibration curves, and other quality control samples on Gas Chromatograph/Mass Spectrometer.
• Determine the chemical impact of regulations on the environment and propose revisions to existing regulations or formulation of new regulations.
• Provide technical and regulatory consultation to intra-agency staff, other public agencies, private contractors, consultants, responsible parties, lawyers, and the public regarding sampling and analytical criteria, analytical data evaluation, site characterization, and remediation methods for cases involving possible contamination of the environment and endangerment of human health.
• Act as a liaison with federal agencies to interpret revisions in federal regulations and develop and implement appropriate changes in state rules and policies.
• Initiate and standardize chemistry monitoring research and monitoring techniques.
• Write chemistry specifications and guidance for the regulated community and other general public customers to achieve compliance with vague regulations and standards, agency objectives, and/or unwritten agency policy.
• Evaluate field sampling, laboratory analytical processes, site characterizations, and other chemistry related factors for technical adequacy to meet project data quality objectives (DQOs).
• Assist in investigations or suspected sites of environmental concern to the agency.
• Prepare reports for staff regarding evaluations performed, recommend approval, modification, or denial of plans, permit applications and closure demonstrations based upon findings.
• Assist in training environmental chemistry staff and office technical staff with regards to environmental chemistry related issues.
• Serve as an agency environmental chemistry representative to cross-media, interagency, interstate and regional task forces, committees and work groups.

Qualifications

• Minimum B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, with emphasis on gas chromatography.
• At least two (2) years of full‑time professional experience as an environmental chemist.
  • Working knowledge of Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry.
  • Broad knowledge of agency program processes related to chemistry.
  • Ability to interpret and apply federal policies and regulations.
  • Broad analytical, organic, and inorganic chemistry knowledge related to environmental monitoring.
  • Working knowledge of biology, toxicology, biochemistry, and geology as needed for environmental regulations.
  • Comprehensive environmental quality assurance/quality control knowledge of laboratory procedures, audit processes, and contract requirements.
  • Knowledge of legal and court procedures for evidence collection.
  • Proficiency in word processing, spreadsheets, and other application software.
  • Knowledge of OSHA laboratory safety practices and procedures.
  • Strong written communication skills and ability to prepare narrative reports and effective presentations.
• Valid Indiana driver’s license required.
• Ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Compensation

Salary traditionally starts at $53,222.00, commensurate with education and work experience.

Benefits

• Three medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans.
• Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards.
• Health savings account with bi‑weekly state contribution.
• Deferred compensation 457(b) account with employer match.
• Two fully funded pension plan options.
• Paid leave policies: 150 hours of paid new‑parent leave, up to eight weeks of paid childbirth recovery leave for eligible mothers, up to 15 hours of paid community service leave, combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave, 12 paid holidays (14 on election years).
• Education reimbursement program.
• Group life insurance.
• Referral bonus program.
• Employee assistance program covering behavioral health visits.
• Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
• Free parking for most positions.
• Free LinkedIn Learning access.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available for individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role.