Scientist I at State of Nebraska in Lincoln, Nebraska

Job Description:

The work we do matters!




Hiring Agency:

Agriculture - Agency 18



Location:

Lincoln, NE



Hiring Rate:

$23.278



Job Posting:

JR2025-00015618 Scientist I (Open)



Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is posted as open until closed):
05-05-2025



Job Description:

Do you have a passion for health and safety? Are you a team player? If you answered yes to any of the previous questions, we have the job for you!


The Nebraska Department of Agriculture Food & Dairy Laboratory performs a wide range of microbiology and chemistry tests. Test results support regulatory programs in the NDA Food Safety and Consumer Protection focus area to protect public health and to prevent consumer fraud. Lab work adheres to ISO 17025 and the ensure the quality and mutual recognition of test results.


Look at what we have to offer!


• 13 paid holidays
• Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately
• Military leave
• 156% (that's not a typo!) state-matched retirement
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee assistance program
• 79% employer paid health insurance plans
• Dental and vision insurance plans
• Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
• 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
• Fun, inviting teammates
• A safe and secure environment


At the State, we stand by our core values of treating others with dignity and respect, acting ethically in all situations, and creating an environment where our customer is our top priority. Apply to join our team today!



Job duties



Perform sample receiving, sample preparation, reagent/media preparation, review test data and lab records. Operate, maintain, verify and calibrate lab instruments. Maintain chain of custody for regulatory samples. When needed, perform troubleshooting on instruments, techniques, etc. Adhere to record keeping, training, and other quality management requirements under ISO 17025. Analyze food products by classic cultural, DNA-based, immunological, or biochemical methods to detect food-borne pathogens and biological agents. Perform sample preparation, extraction, and chemical analysis on food products. Perform other related duties as assigned. Follow Laboratory Safety and emergency action procedures.



Requirements / Qualifications




Minimum Qualifications: 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: Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field of study with experience in microbiology and chemistry.



Other: This position requires travel. As such, the incumbent must be able to present a valid driver's license or another form of reliable transportation. Regular and reliable attendance is required.



Knowledge, Skills and Abilities



Knowledge of: the principles of biology, microbiology, chemistry and their laboratory applications; the principles, concepts, and techniques of applied laboratory testing; the hazards and safety precautions of laboratory testing activities.


Ability to: perform microbiological and chemical examinations; communicate orally and in writing to present technical and scientific findings, conclusions, and recommendations; interact with other laboratory staff to exchange information; understand and apply oral and written supervisory instructions, the protocol for equipment operation and test procedure, and safety rules; calculate solutions to arithmetical problems involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, decimals, and fractions; observe and identify characteristics or patterns in substances and materials examined; set personal work priorities and manage own work time.






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! Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status. For more information on benefits, 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.