Interdisciplinary Physical Scientist/Chemist

This position is with Department of Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), Technical Support, Analytical and Laboratory Division. MSHA works to prevent death, illness and injury from mining; promote safe and healthful workplaces for U.S. miners. MSHA carries out the provisions of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 (Mine Act) as amended by the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response (MINER) Act of 2006.

The responsibilities described apply to both the Physical Scientist and Chemist position titles. Performs complex analyses of airborne mine particulates. Prepares and analyzes samples for quartz using x-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Prepares and analyzes fume, water, and bulk samples for elemental composition using inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy. Analyzes diesel particulate samples using an elemental carbon analyzer. Analyzes dust samples for size and number concentration using microscopic and electronic counting techniques. Reviews the background material submitted with the samples, determining approaches as needed. Modifies and adapts standard methods and procedures to solve analytical problems. Evaluates and interprets analytical findings, reporting results and makes recommendations as needed. Evaluates the acceptability of samples, stating the method used, modifications of the method, the results and the impact of any quality control deficiencies on data usability. Interprets analytical data as it relates to project goals. Explains analytical results as needed. Independently works out the required test procedures and methods for the analysis of particulate samples that may require modification of standard or generally acceptable methods of analysis. Validates the method with known samples and prepares reports of results in the standard MSHA format. Keeps abreast of the latest developments in the field of industrial hygiene sample analyses and environmental chemistry and recommends new instrumentation and/or techniques which may be applicable. Provides technical advice to laboratory personnel and consults with outside scientists in the specialty area. Processes laboratory data using various commercial and custom made computer software programs. Prepares technical manuscripts dealing with the work conducted.

Any applicant falsely claiming an academic degree from an accredited school will be subject to actions ranging from disqualification from federal employment to removal from federal service. If your education was completed at a foreign college or university, you must show comparability to education received in accredited educational institutions in the United States and comparability to applicable minimum coursework requirements for this position. Click Evaluation of Foreign Education for more information.