ABOLISHED 02/02/2017 PER PAY LETTER 17-11 - Associate Geochemist
California State Personnel Board Specification
Schematic Code: HR90
Class Code: 3743
Established: 10/08/1959
Revised: 04/07/1992
Title Changed: --
Definition
Under general direction, plan, organize, prepare samples and conduct the testing of rocks, minerals, ores, and related materials, using x- ray diffraction and x-ray fluorescence equipment, optical microscope techniques, Microprobe/SEM or analytical chemical methods; plan, organize, and conduct geochemical surveys and investigations; evaluate the results of chemical analyses performed by outside laboratories and assist staff geologists in their interpretation; and do other related work.
Typical Tasks
Plans, organizes, prepares samples and conducts the testing of rocks, minerals, ores, and related materials; calibrates, operates, and maintains x-ray diffraction, x-ray fluorescence and other analytical equipment; performs difficult qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses of silicate minerals and rocks; develops and tests new procedures for making chemical determinations in field and laboratory work; devises or adapts special laboratory equipment; plans, organizes, and conducts geochemical surveys and investigations; prepares reports and writes technical papers for publication; conducts special research projects; arranges for and monitors analytical work by outside laboratories.
Minimum Qualifications
Experience: Four years of progressively responsible professional work in the field of geochemistry including at least two years of experience in silicate analysis, physical-chemical testing, or x-ray diffraction and x-ray fluorescence work. (A Master's Degree in Physical Chemistry, Geology, or a closely related field may be substituted for two years of experience or a Doctorate in Physical Chemistry or Geology with major work in the field of geochemistry may be substituted for the four years of required experience.) and Education: Equivalent to graduation from college with major work in chemistry, geology, soil science or a closely related field.
Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of: Principles and practices of geochemistry; general chemical laboratory testing procedures and equipment; x-ray diffraction and x-ray fluorescence equipment and techniques; mineralogy and petrology; optical microscope techniques using transmitted and reflected light; Microprobe/SEM; principles and processes of formation of mineral deposits; sample requirements, capabilities, and data interpretation of Inductively Coupled Plasma Emission Spectrometer (ICP), Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AA), Neutron Activation, Fire Assay, Electron Microprobe/SEM, colorimetry, wet chemical methods, fluid inclusions, stable isotopes, age dating methods, sample preparation techniques, safe laboratory practices, hazardous materials standards and record-keeping requirements for OSHA.
Ability to: Calibrate, maintain, and operate x-ray diffraction and x-ray fluorescence equipment; conduct independent technical investigations; prepare and edit technical reports; analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action; establish and maintain cooperative relations with those contacted in the work.
