Work Location: Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70803

Position Description: Responsible for performing intermediate and advanced chemical laboratory work which involves the qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis of various samples including feed, fertilizer, water, soil, plant, and animal tissues for a variety of analytes, including but not limited to, nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, mercury, heavy metals, orthophosphate, nitrate, nitrite, ammonia, fat, and fiber. Analyses will require the use of sophisticated instrumentation, including gas and liquid chromatography, inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy, nitrogen combustion analysis, flame photometry, cold vapor mercury analysis, discrete analysis and analyses using other analytical instrumentation as needed. With minimal supervision, the candidate must be able to perform intermediate and advanced laboratory tasks required for the operation of the laboratory including sample preparation, preventative and routine maintenance of analytical equipment, and preparation of solutions and reagents. The candidate must perform work in accordance with modern analytical chemical laboratory methods and procedures, such as those approved by AAFCO, AAPFCO, AOAC, FDA, USDA, and EPA. The candidate must perform analyses according to SOP’s used by the laboratory to guarantee the accuracy of results in alignment with the laboratory’s quality management system which adheres to ISO 17025 standards. The candidate must be able to utilize the laboratory’s LIMS system to track samples and enter results. The candidate must be able to collaborate with other laboratory personnel to develop novel analytical methodologies as needed. Other duties as assigned.

Qualification Requirements: B.S. in chemistry, environmental science or an agricultural science related field. An M.S. or Ph.D. degree in chemistry, environmental science or an agricultural related field is strongly desired. Course work or experience in chemistry or laboratory analysis and a strong background in analytical chemistry are preferred. Familiarity with the handling of feed, fertilizer, pesticides or other agricultural inputs and laboratory quality assurance and quality control is desirable.

Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.

Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.

Application Deadline: September 27, 2023 or until a suitable candidate is identified.

Application Procedure: Apply online at LSU AgCenter Careers (or in Workday for internal applicants) and attach cover letter including a statement of professional interest and goals, resumé, and four letters of reference. Letters of recommendation should address the candidate’s qualifications for the position and potential for development. Letters of recommendation should candidly evaluate both strengths and weaknesses of the applicant for the position. In lieu of attaching the letters of reference, they may be sent directly to the hiring manager listed below. For more information contact:

Dr. Ted Gauthier Department Head
Agricultural Chemistry Department Agricultural Chemistry Building – LSU Highland Rd, Room 102
Baton Rouge, LA 70803 Telephone: 225/353/9545 Fax: 225/342/0027
Web site: AgCenter website

The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer