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About the Role

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is seeking a Food Laboratory Specialist 1 or Trainee to work in the Microbiology Department in Albany. This role involves receiving and preparing samples for microbiological testing, performing laboratory analyses, calibrating instrumentation, operating laboratory equipment, analyzing test results, and preparing reports. The position also contributes to method development and process improvement.

Responsibilities

Receives and prepares samples for microbiological testing and analysis.
Follows proper laboratory protocols for handling, labeling, and storage.
Performs laboratory testing methods.
Calibrates instrumentation to establish appropriate conditions for analysis.
Operates complex laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and computer equipment.
Analyzes test results and prepares summaries and reports of analyses.
Performs duties in compliance with standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements.
Contributes towards method development, process improvement, and investigations into new techniques, methods, and instrumentation.

Requirements

A bachelor's or higher degree in analytical chemistry, animal physiology, animal science, aquatics and fisheries science, applied biology, applied nutrition and food technology, biochemistry, biology, biotechnology, chemistry, computational biology, dairy food technology, dairy production, environmental biology, environmental science, food science, genetics, global and public health sciences, human biology, health and society, inorganic chemistry, microbiology, molecular and cell biology, molecular biology, nutritional sciences, organic chemistry, plant biology, plant physiology, or plant sciences.
One year of experience using knowledge of chemistry, microbiology, and other sciences to conduct analytical testing in support of food safety, food security, agricultural interests, and consumer interests (for Trainee 2 level).
Two years of experience using knowledge of chemistry, microbiology, and other sciences to conduct analytical testing in support of food safety, food security, agricultural interests, and consumer interests (for Specialist 1 level).
A master’s degree in a related field can substitute for one year of experience.
A doctorate in a related field can substitute for two years of experience.
One year of permanent, competitive service in a title designated as appropriate for transfer under Section 70.1 of the Civil Service Law (for 70.1 Transfer Qualifications).
One year of permanent, competitive service in a Grade 11 title or higher (for 70.4 Transfer Qualifications).
Received a passing score on the most recent Professional Career Opportunities (PCO) Select Title examination (for 70.4 Transfer Qualifications).
Previous permanent New York State employees who resigned their positions may be reinstated to their former positions, or to positions to which they were eligible for transfer or reassignment without further examination (Reinstatement Under Rule 5.4).
Employees separated from their positions may be reinstated within one year of the date of their separation (Reinstatement Under Rule 5.4).
Employees separated from their positions who have also been separated from state service for more than one year may be reinstated upon approval by the state Civil Service Commission (Reinstatement Under Rule 5.4).

Skills

Knowledge of chemistry
Knowledge of microbiology
Knowledge of other sciences to conduct analytical testing
Laboratory testing methods
Instrumentation calibration
Operation of complex laboratory equipment
Electronic data processing
Computer equipment operation
Method development
Process improvement
Investigation into new techniques, methods, and instrumentation

Location

Albany, NY

Work Type

Full-time
Permanent

Experience Level

Trainee
Food Laboratory Specialist 1, SG-18
Food Laboratory Specialist Trainee 2, NS

Education Level

Bachelor's degree or higher in specified science fields
Master's degree in a related field
Doctorate in a related field

Salary/Compensations

$53,764/year (Trainee 1)
$59,994/year (Trainee 2)
$66,951/year (Specialist 1)
Up to $85,138/year (Specialist 1 with performance advances)

Benefits

Cost-effective health insurance options
Fully covered dental care
Fully covered vision care
New York State Pension Plan
5 personal days (first year)
13 vacation days (first year)
13 sick days (first year)
13 paid holidays (first year)
Deferred Compensation Plan
Flex Spending Account
NY's 529 College Savings Program
Potential eligibility for Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)

About the Company

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is committed to cultivating a thriving food and agriculture industry that benefits everyone – from producers to consumers.
The department offers a dynamic environment where innovation, sustainability, and community engagement are paramount.
It provides diverse opportunities in areas such as environmental science and economic development.
The department supports professional and personal growth for its employees.

Equal Opportunity

The Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
We are committed to providing equal employment opportunity, and reasonable accommodations and/or modifications as necessary, for qualified persons with disabilities.