The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) is looking to fill a Chemist position in the Pesticide Laboratory. The “Ag Labs” function is to protect the citizens of Iowa from potential food safety issues and from fraudulent sale and/or use of meat, milk, feed, fertilizer, or pesticide. IDALS has several laboratories that each focus on specific products and work closely with an associated bureau within the department. This position is in our labs in Ankeny just a few minutes north of the Des Moines metro.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of this Chemist position is laboratory testing.

Job Duties:

• Perform analytic testing of pesticide samples using a variety of instruments/techniques including sample preparation and extraction, high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry and gas chromatography mass spectrometry.
• Quantitative and statistical evaluation of data.
• Participate in and help maintain 17025:2017 laboratory accreditation by keeping sample testing records, editing/writing SOPs, using a LIMS, and other detailed record keeping.
• Maintain a safe, well-stocked laboratory that is neat and organized.
• Perform other duties as assigned such as equipment maintenance, training, cleaning and other activities.

Benefits:

As an employee of IDALS, you are a State of Iowa employee and are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Paid Time Off: 9 holidays, sick leave, vacation, military leave, and jury duty leave.
• Medical Insurance: High-quality coverage with premiums as low as $210.00 per month for family coverage and $64.00 per month for single coverage.
• Dental Insurance: Free for single coverage and $46.00 per month for family coverage.
• Life Insurance: Basic $20,000 policy at no cost, with additional voluntary supplemental life available at a cost, and long-term disability insurance available at no additional cost.
• Exceptional Retirement: Includes IPERS (Iowa Public Employee Retirement System), a fixed income or defined benefit pension plan, and a deferred compensation plan (similar to a 401K) with a state match of up to $75.00 per month.

To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit our benefits webpage.

Join us! Apply today!

Join us in our mission to enhance Iowa’s agricultural landscape and contribute to the well-being of our communities. If you are passionate about agriculture and have the skills to drive program success, we encourage you to apply. We also strongly encourage you to upload a cover letter and resume in the attachments section of your application.

Apply now to make a meaningful impact in Iowa's agricultural future!

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in chemistry, biochemistry or a closely related chemical science;a combination of education and experience substituting one year of employment in the capacity of a laboratory technician at an advanced level in a chemistry laboratory for one year of the required education with a maximum substitution of four years;employees with current continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes experience equal to four years of full-time work as a Laboratory Assistant 3.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.