Scientist II - Chemical Tests Lab at State of Nebraska in Lincoln, Nebraska

Job Description:

The work we do matters!




Hiring Agency:

Transportation - Agency 27



Location:

Lincoln Job Posting



Hiring Rate:

$25.729



Classification Salary Range:

$22.82 - $37.93



Job Posting:

JR2024-00006592 Scientist II - Chemical Tests Lab (Open)



Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is posted as open until closed):



Job Description:

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) Materials and Research Chemical Tests Lab performs quality assurance and research testing for various maintenance and construction materials used on Nebraska roadways. In this position, you will work independently and in a team environment to perform testing and analyze data to ensure the materials submitted meet the material specification requirements. This job includes preparing solutions and reagents, assisting with the collection and disposal of hazardous waste, and assisting in training district teammates and contractors with proper sampling methods. The Chemical Tests lab has four other team members and work frequently with other laboratories in the Department. As part of our team, you will contribute to verifying the quality of materials used to construct and maintain our transportation infrastructure.


At NDOT, we reward our employee's hard work with a friendly and supportive work environment and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:


• State-matched retirement contribution of 156%
• 13 paid holidays
• Generous leave accruals that begin immediately
• Military leave
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Dependent tuition reimbursement program with partnering Nebraska community colleges
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
• 79% employer-paid health insurance plans
• Dental and vision insurance plans
• Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
• Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
• Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
• Training and Development based on your career aspirations
• Job security and stability, even during times of economic hardship
• Employee Assistance Program
• Fun, inviting teammates


Pay range is $25.729 - $37.928 per hour. The pay rate may be commensurate with education and/or experience within fiscal constraints if approved.


This position is classified as a Scientist II. If unable to fill at the II level, will consider applicants at the Scientist I level (pay rate for this level of classification is $22.822 per hour).


Job Duties:
• Quality assurance testing of highway maintenance and construction materials.
• Research analysis testing.
• Perform testing using various types of instrumentation.
• Prepare solutions and reagents used in various testing.
• Perform general cleaning and maintenance on glassware, laboratory area and equipment.
• Perform all testing using PPE.
• Proficiency sample testing for laboratory accreditation (cement, fly ash, blended cement, traffic paint, winter maintenance materials).
• Maintenance/calibration of laboratory equipment.
• Laboratory analysis record-keeping in a laboratory notebook and electronically in AASHTOWare Project.
• Assist in disposal of laboratory hazardous waste. DOT Hazardous Materials Training is required every 3 years.
• Assist in training district personnel and contractors in proper sampling methods for traffic paint and glass beads.
• Perform other duties as assigned.



Requirements / Qualifications




Minimum Qualifications:



Scientist II level: Bachelor's degree with major in chemistry, biology or related field OR Post high school coursework/training in chemistry, biology or related field AND three years of experience in a scientific laboratory.


Scientist I level: At least one year of post-high school coursework/training in chemistry, biology, or related field and one year of experience in a scientific laboratory.



Preferred Qualifications:



Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, OR physics; experience in an applied testing laboratory with responsibility for chemical analysis.



Other: Regular and reliable attendance is required.



Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of basic chemical laboratory techniques.


• Knowledge of training/leadership.


• Knowledge of analytical lab equipment operation and calibration.


• Skilled in critical thinking and applying analytical principles.


• Skilled in following written test methods and verbal instruction.


• Ability to satisfactorily perform tests necessary for chemical analysis.


• Ability to effectively use advanced instrumentation.


• Ability to properly enter test data and interpret test results.


• Ability to communicate well with others, orally and in writing.


• Ability to prioritize work assignments.


• Ability to work independently.

Benefits



We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.


Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer! For more information on benefits currently offered to permanent teammates, please visit: https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/index.html#benefits



Equal Opportunity Statement



The State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex. age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics.



Current employees of the State of Nebraska should NOT apply on this external career. Instead go to Workday and access the Jobs Hub - Internal Apply app from your home landing page. Apply Now