Job Description

The Vermont Department of Health Laboratory Organic Chemistry section is seeking a Chemist to support the Laboratory Response Network-Chemical (LRN-C) program, with a focus on chemical threat (CT) analysis of biological specimens including blood and urine. This position involves performing and supporting analytical testing using advanced instrumentation such as LC-MS/MS and GC-MS to detect and monitor chemical exposures of public health concern. Example methods may include the analysis of cyanide, nerve agent metabolites, tetramine, and other priority chemical threat compounds in biological matrices.

Additionally, this position will support the Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) biosurveillance program through analysis of drugs and emerging substances in biological samples, contributing to statewide public health monitoring and response efforts.

The ideal candidate is collaborative, detail-oriented, and eager to learn in a highly technical, method-driven laboratory environment. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as this role requires working closely with a multidisciplinary team to support critical public health initiatives. The candidate should be a team-oriented individual who contributes positively to laboratory culture, supports colleagues, and helps maintain a respectful and productive work environment. A willingness to develop technical expertise, follow established methods, and uphold high standards of quality, safety, and data integrity is expected.

Who May Apply

This position, Public Health Laboratory Scientist II, Chemistry - Limited Service (Job Requisition #55066), is open to all State employees and external applicants. It is a Limited Service position, which is non-tenured and authorized for a specific period of time. Limited Service positions are established for specially funded projects or programs.

Please Note: This position is being recruited at multiple levels. If you would like to be considered for more than one level, you MUST apply to the specific Job Requisition.

Level I: Job Requisition #54897

Level II: Job Requisition #55065

Level III: Job Requisition #55066

If you would like more information about this position, please contact nathan.plocharczyk@vermont.gov
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.
Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.

AHS BACKGROUND CHECKS: Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.

Environmental Factors

Must be able to work in laboratory conditions with exposure to noxious or harmful fumes and chemicals and operate sophisticated laboratory equipment. Must be willing to be called upon with short notice (sometimes only hours) to respond to a public health emergency or natural disaster affecting a large segment of the Vermont population and able to accurately analyze samples in such a short timeframe. May need to explain laboratory data and testing to the general public, explain what the VDHL can do and to educate them regarding public health science. Work requires some travel and incumbents should possess a valid Vermont operator's license.

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. in chemistry, biochemistry, physical chemistry, radiochemistry, health physics, forensic science or a related chemical or biological science.

OR

Master's degree in chemistry, physical science, biological science or a closely related field AND one (1) year or more of professional level quantitative, radiochemistry or instrumental chemistry laboratory experience in a public health, environmental or related laboratory setting.

OR

Bachelor's degree in chemistry, physical science, biological science or a closely related field AND three (3) years or more of professional level quantitative, radiochemistry or instrumental chemistry laboratory experience in a public health, environmental or related laboratory setting.

OR

One (1) year or more of experience as a Public Health Laboratory Scientist II, Chemistry.

Total Compensation

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low cost group life insurance
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.