COMPLETE OUTLINE
PRINCIPAL FUNCTIONS
The advertised Senior Analytical Chemist role will have the following primary responsibilities
Senior Analytical Chemist No.3:
- Undertaking the organization (compilation, implementation and updating) of the OPCW Central Analytical Database:
- Receive contributed spectra, prepare and distribute contributed spectra for evaluation by the Validation group (mass spectra, GC retention indices, infrared spectra or nuclear magnetic resonance spectra)
- Organize and assist with meetings of the Validation Group
- Document and maintain records of the database compilation, prepare new version of the OCAD
- Prepares on-site version of OCAD, checks and updates the contents of the database by requesting contributors for missing data or unsatisfactory spectra
- Draft correspondence concerning policy issues related to the database and undertakes technical correspondences concerning the database issues
- Develop the OCAD project in collaboration with the Information Systems Branch. The project involves the preparation of the on-site databases for inspection purposes and development of a relational database which enhances the management of the OCAD
- Maintain and update the QDOCs related to this activity
- Take the lead with respect to audits by OIO and/or RvA for the OCAD
- Maintain/enhance the OPCW Dual Mode Software used for on-site inspections.
- Organise, maintain, trouble-shoot and update the laboratory information management system (LIMS) software as needed
All Senior Analytical Chemist posts share the following responsibilities:
Provide training and certification exercises for AC inspectors or other trainees on performing analyses using GC/MS systems and sample collection and preparation kits
- Assist with the planning of the scope, technical and organisational aspects of the training
- Develop training materials
- Prepare and validate instruments for the training
- Prepare the samples for the training and certification exercises
- Act as key lecturer and instructor during training and exercises
- Supervise the work of trainees in the laboratory
- Evaluate and report the performance of the trainees
Develop and provide training for both internal and external participants on 1) performing analyses using analytical equipment such as GC/MS, LC/MS and NMR, 2) methods/techniques supporting the proficiency testing programme, 3) safe handling of chemical agents, 4) synthesis of chemical agents, 5) other training courses as determined by the Head of the Laboratory
- Assist with the planning of the scope, technical and organisational aspects of the training
- Develop training materials
- Prepare and validate instruments for the training
- Prepare the samples for the training
- Act as key lecturer and instructor during training and exercises
- Supervise the work of trainees in the laboratory
- Evaluate and report the performance of the trainees
Maintain OPCW Laboratory accreditation and support QMS
- Actively contribute to the maintenance and development of the QMS in the relevant areas
- Maintain and develop QMS documentation, including SOPs and WIs
- Support internal audit activities, receive audit reports and ensure corrective action where necessary
- Assist with the preparation of the quality manuals, the document control mechanism and the recording reporting methods
- Actively participate in cross training activities to support continuity of expertise in all laboratory processes in case of staff replacement
- Assist with performing QA audits
Ensure safe and efficient operation of the OPCW Laboratory, including procurement and maintenance of laboratory equipment in a timely and efficient manner
- Assist with planning and drafting the annual OPCW Laboratory budget
- Assist with evaluating, selecting and delegating staff for relevant laboratory tasks
- Act as senior analytical and CW expert by advising, undertaking and supervising experimental work in the Laboratory
- Assist with activities necessary to ensure a safe working environment
- Participate in internal Health and Safety audits
- Report to the Head of OPCW Laboratory on the operational situation, progress and results
- Provide an information and place orders to ensure that there is enough equipment and chemicals to support efficient work of the OPCW Laboratory
- Supervise and undertake procedures for the use, maintenance, calibration and quality assurance of analytical equipment are in place
- Support procurement of equipment in technical aspects and advise the Committee on Contracts as needed
Provide technical advice, training and support on inspection analytical equipment-related issues and verification-related analytical issues
- Develop, test and validate analytical methods
- Receive and evaluate information and documents related to inspection equipment and sample analysis
- Provide technical advice and support to the Head of the Laboratory when required
- Ensure that different divisions and branches of OPCW are provided with technical advice and information relating to inspection analytical equipment and verification-related analytical issues when requested
Assist the Inspectorate by acting as an Analytical Chemist Inspector
- Perform research on industrial chemicals and their analysis prior to an inspection
- Prepare for mission by taking part in pre-mission briefings, get medical clearance, fit personal protective equipment
- Travel on inspections and function as an Analytical Chemist
- Report/brief post inspection
Assist in the Preparation of Authentic Samples
- Handle, process and split samples gathered by inspectors and sent for offsite analysis
- Evaluate reports prepared by designated laboratories
- Provide advice and feedback to inspectors as required
Perform other duties as required
RECRUITING PROFILE
Education (Qualifications):
Essential: An advanced degree in Chemistry or equivalent from a recognized institution. A first-level university degree in combination with extensive relevant laboratory experience (=> 9 years) may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Desirable: Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry or Toxicology preferably with a focus on Analytical or Bioanalytical Chemistry. A first-level degree in Information Technology.
Experience:
Essential:
- At least 7 years experience in the field of analytical chemistry and instrumental analysis with advanced degree or 9 years with first level degree;
- A minimum of 6 years recent and practical experience as operator of GC/MS and/or LC/MS and/or NMR instrumentation;
- Specific experience with data analysis including evaluation of data for analytical libraries;
- Specific experience in the creation of analytical libraries;
- Specific experience in LIMS.
Desirable: Experience developing & teaching training courses will be an asset. Knowledge and experience on Structured Query Language (SQL), C#, python, Agilent macro is highly desirable. Experience in chemoinformatics and database management is highly desirable.
Skills and Abilities (key competencies):
- Knowledge of sampling and analysis procedures for the analysis of chemical weapons related chemicals and of related instrumental analytical methods and techniques (GC/MS, LC/MS, FTIR, NMR)
- Knowledge of quality assurance and quality control procedures and international standards
- Strong computer software and electronic data management skills
- Practical knowledge of GC/MS processing software such as Agilent Chemstation and MS library managing software such as NIST MS Search/AMDIS
- Practical knowledge of LC/MS systems and processing software
- Basic understanding of general analytical methods including their limitations and of modern instrumentation needed to apply these methods in field as well as laboratory situations
- A broad understanding of the various analytical techniques (and their limitations) used by laboratories in the analysis of Convention related chemicals
- Tact, discretion, and the ability to work harmoniously in a multi-cultural environment.
Language Requirements:
Fluency in English is essential and a good working knowledge of one of the other official languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish) is desirable.
