Toxicology Chemist

Duties

• Performs chemical analysis of body fluids, tissues and other specimens for presence of drugs, poisons and other chemicals
• Organizes and documents chemical analysis data
• Provides analysis information and testing status
• Documents analysis results and records the type of analysis ordered
• Reports testing results to supervisor
• Stores completed sample materials in the freezer
• Refers, prepares and sends samples for special testing to outside agencies for analysis
• Assists in development and modification of analytical methods
• Conducts parameter checks on instrumentation
• May testify in court on laboratory test results
• Performs related duties as required

 Earn a Degree in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Science, or Computer Forensics

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry or a closely related field and three (3) years chemical analysis experience with biological materials; additional education in a related field may be substituted for experience
• Must be certified by the American Board of Forensic Toxicology, Analyst or Diplomate in forensic toxicology, or become certified within two years
• Good knowledge of chemical analysis and laboratory procedures; knowledge of statistical analysis; knowledge of basic personal computer operation
• Skill to record analysis results accurately
• Ability to organize and compile data; ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing; ability to operate laboratory instruments such as fume hoods, centrifuges, gas chromatography, atomic absorption spectrophotometer, tissue homogenizer, immunoassay analyzer, analytical balance, micro computer and basic office equipment; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and County employees
• Must secure and maintain a favorable background investigation from Federal Bureau of Investigation and Bexar County Sheriff's Office
• Must clear a pre-employment physical and a pre-employment drug screen test
• Must have available transportation during entire workday
• Must have a valid driver's license
• May be required to work more than 40 hours during the workweek

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

• Physical requirements include lifting/carrying 10 lbs. occasionally; visual acuity, speech and hearing; hand and eye coordination and manual dexterity necessary to operate complex laboratory equipment, computer keyboard and basic office equipment. Subject to handling, walking, standing, reaching, kneeling and smelling to perform the essential functions
• Working conditions are primarily inside a laboratory environment with frequent exposure to blood and other biological materials and occasional exposure to chemical solvents and corrosive chemicals

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