Chemist II
Summary
Intermediate chemist. Works under minimal supervision. Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required. Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Analyzes existing methodologies, formulates hypotheses, and modifies existing procedures; does not develop novel procedures. Performs a variety of tasks. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.
Studies substances at the atomic and molecular levels and the ways in which substances react with each other. Evaluates the chemical and physical properties of various organic and inorganic substances in order to investigate their applications to medicine and other industries. Conducts qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new and improved products or knowledge.
Examples of Work
Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description. These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.
- Carry out complex research projects, such as the development of new products and testing methods
- Provides scientific services for clients
- Analyze organic or inorganic compounds or substances to determine chemical or physical properties, composition, concentration of elements, structure, relationships, or reactions, using chromatography, spectroscopy, or spectrophotometry techniques
- Conduct quality control tests on materials and other substances, to ensure that safety and quality standards are met
- Maintain laboratory instruments to ensure proper working order and troubleshoot malfunctions when needed
- Prepare test solutions, compounds, or reagents for laboratory personnel to conduct tests
- Induce changes in composition of substances by introducing heat, light, energy, or chemical catalysts for quantitative or qualitative analysis
- Evaluate laboratory safety procedures to ensure compliance with standards
- Compile and analyze test information to determine process or equipment operating efficiency or to diagnose malfunctions
- Assist in writing technical papers or reports or prepare standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, or tests
- Assist in writing technical reports that detail methods and findings
- Present research findings to scientists, engineers, and other colleagues
- Confer with scientists or engineers to conduct analyses of research projects, interpret test results, or modify nonstandard tests
- Reviews literature pertinent to the research area
- Improve or customize products, equipment, formulas, processes, or analytical methods
- Coordinate or advise technicians and other workers in test procedures for analyzing components or physical properties of materials
- Instruct scientists and technicians on proper chemical processing and testing procedures, such as ingredients, mixing times, and operating temperatures
- Purchase laboratory supplies, such as chemicals, when supplies are low or near their expiration date
- Study effects of various methods of processing, preserving, or packaging on composition or properties of foods
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a closely related field and three years of experience in the field or in a related area; or a master’s degree in chemistry or a closely related field and one year of experience in the field or in a related area; or Doctoral degree in chemistry or a closely related field.
Licensure and Certification
N/A
Supervision
This position may include supervisory responsibility.
Competencies
- Flexibility And Adaptability
- Oral Communications
- Communicating Complex Concepts
- Teamwork
- Accuracy And Attention To Detail
- Initiative
- Managing Multiple Priorities
- Active Learning
- Office Support Tools
- Listening
To see common career pathways for each position at the University of Florida please visit the Career Paths section of the UFHR website.