Opioids Chemist

As an Opioids Chemist at IDOH Chemistry Laboratories, you will perform complex chemical analyses on various samples to detect levels of opioids and other contaminants. You'll utilize sophisticated laboratory instruments to ensure compliance with EPA and FDA regulations, maintain laboratory equipment, produce technical reports, and uphold strict Quality Assurance standards. Your role is critical in public health surveillance and ensuring safety in our communities.

To qualify for the Opioids Chemist position at IDOH Chemistry Laboratories, candidates must possess at least a bachelor’s degree in chemical or physical science from an accredited institution and have a minimum of two years of experience as an analytical chemist. Familiarity with complex laboratory equipment, good laboratory practices, and knowledge of state and federal regulations related to the specialty area are also essential.

Key skills for an Opioids Chemist at IDOH Chemistry Laboratories include technical proficiency in operating advanced laboratory equipment like LC/MS/MS and GC/MS/MS, strong analytical judgment, effective communication skills, and a thorough understanding of good laboratory practices. It's equally important to have a grip on analytical, organic, and inorganic chemistry principles, alongside practical knowledge of laboratory safety.

The work environment for an Opioids Chemist at IDOH Chemistry Laboratories consists of a fast-paced laboratory setting where samples are analyzed for various contaminants, including opioids. The job involves handling clinical specimens and operating equipment that may pose hazards, so adherence to safety protocols is crucial. The dynamic nature of the work requires analytical problem-solving skills and adaptability to new challenges.

As an Opioids Chemist at IDOH Chemistry Laboratories, you will have opportunities to enhance your expertise in analytical chemistry and potentially expand into supervisory roles or specialized areas within public health. Continuous learning and training on new analytical techniques, as well as involvement in research projects, can further pave the way for career advancement.

In your response, highlight specific analytical techniques you have worked with, such as LC/MS/MS or GC/MS/MS. Discuss the types of samples you analyzed and any relevant projects. Mention how you ensured compliance with quality standards and handled complex variable matrices.

Discuss specific safety protocols you follow, such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), conducting risk assessments, and adhering to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP). Share any experiences where your attention to safety made a significant difference.

Mention professional organizations you follow, courses you take, or how you participate in conferences and workshops. Highlight the importance of continuous learning in keeping your skills and knowledge current.

Share a specific instance where you faced analytical challenges, detailing your problem-solving process. Emphasize your analytical thinking, methodology, and the successful outcome, demonstrating both technical skill and initiative.

Explain your time management techniques such as creating to-do lists, setting deadlines for each task, and using software tools for scheduling. Provide examples of how you always meet deadlines while ensuring quality work.

Discuss your understanding of how the identification and quantification of opioids contribute to public health initiatives. Emphasize the importance of accuracy and compliance in your role and how it impacts decision-making at higher levels.

Share your views on teamwork, including actively sharing your knowledge with colleagues, assisting them with technical challenges, and participating in training sessions. Provide examples of how collaboration has led to successful outcomes in the lab.

Describe your familiarity with maintaining lab notebooks, preparing technical reports, and ensuring compliance with documentation standards. Emphasize the importance of accurate records and how you manage data integrity.

Discuss stress management strategies like staying organized, breaking tasks into manageable parts, and communicating effectively with your team about workload. Share a time when you successfully managed a deadline under pressure.

Articulate your passion for analytical chemistry, particularly in relation to public health. Mention your admiration for IDOH's commitment to excellence and how you wish to contribute to its mission using your skills and knowledge.