What are the responsibilities and job description for the Environmental Evidence Specialist - State Program Administrator Technical Specialist position at Minnesota Department of Agriculture?
Working Title: Environmental Evidence Specialist
Job Class: State Program Administrator, Technical Specialist
Agency: Minnesota Department of Agriculture
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
This position is responsible for writing and implementing sample control procedures and providing sample custodial duties for the Laboratory so that evidentiary samples received meet established acceptance criteria, are suitable for analysis and that results are admissible as evidence in a hearing or regulatory action.
Additional responsibilities include:
To facilitate proper years of service crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.
One year of experience working in a laboratory setting.
Knowledge of quality assurance principles to determine biological and chemical sample suitability for laboratory testing.
The ability to understand and follow complex oral and written directions, processes, and workflows.
Must possess good oral and written communication skills.
Must possess working knowledge of computer and analytical software programs.
Must possess strong time management and organizational skills
Ability to celebrate diversity and a strong commitment to a respectful and inclusive work environment.
Preferred Qualifications
Advanced degree in a scientific field.
Two or more years of experience working in a laboratory setting.
Experience working in an accredited laboratory setting.
Experience managing and handling hazardous and biological waste.
Experience developing, reviewing, and modifying quality assurance procedures.
Physical Requirements
Regularly maintain stationary position for extended periods of time such as standing or sitting.
Regularly lift samples batches of 25 pounds.
Ability to move and transport samples.
Physical dexterity that permits standing, bending, kneeling and stretching.
This position exists in an analytical laboratory. As such, all potential safety hazards associated with this type of environment are assumed to be present. Hazards such as chemical exposure, hot surfaces, compressed gases and mechanical hazards exist in this section. This position must be comfortable working around these hazards and have sufficient knowledge to recognize and prevent harm to themselves or others. This position must be able to function in this environment and must be comfortable wearing personal protective gear.
Additional Requirements
A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. It is the policy of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, as part of its hiring procedures, to conduct background checks on the finalist(s) for positions within the agency. The background check may consist of the following components:
How To Apply
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Joseph Putrow at joseph.putrow@state.mn.us.
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Becky Hierlinger at becky.hierlinger@state.mn.us.
About Minnesota Department Of Agriculture
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has served our state for more than 125 years. The work we do touches every Minnesota citizen every day.
Our mission is to enhance all Minnesotans’ quality of life by equitably ensuring the integrity of our food supply, the health of our environment, and the strength and resilience of our agricultural economy.
Our three general areas of responsibility include:
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include:
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants With Disabilities
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
Job Class: State Program Administrator, Technical Specialist
Agency: Minnesota Department of Agriculture
- Job ID: 85446
- Location: St. Paul
- Telework Eligible: No
- Full/Part Time: Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
- Who May Apply: This vacancy is open to bidders and to all qualified job seekers. Bidders will be considered through 04/16/2025.
- Date Posted: 04/10/2025
- Closing Date: 04/23/2025
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Minnesota Department of Agriculture
- Division/Unit: Laboratory Services Division / Lab Operations Unit
- Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
- Days of Work: Monday - Friday
- Travel Required: No
- Salary Range: $23.26 - $32.79 / hourly; $48,566 - $68,465 / annually
- Classified Status: Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 207 - AFSCME Technical
- Work Area: Lab Operations Unit
- FLSA Status: Nonexempt
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
This position is responsible for writing and implementing sample control procedures and providing sample custodial duties for the Laboratory so that evidentiary samples received meet established acceptance criteria, are suitable for analysis and that results are admissible as evidence in a hearing or regulatory action.
Additional responsibilities include:
- Assisting agency inspectors on submitting evidentiary samples and the information needed for submission to the laboratory so that acceptance criteria for samples are met.
- Coordinating Hazardous waste lab packs.
- Ensuring the flow of specimens/samples that are received at the laboratory are handled properly.
- Identifying analytical and evidentiary integrity issues for all sample submissions, documenting observations and notifying clients for discrepancy resolution or sample rejection.
- Registering sample(s) and entering pertinent data into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) so that the sample is uniquely identifiable, retrievable, and traceable.
To facilitate proper years of service crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.
One year of experience working in a laboratory setting.
Knowledge of quality assurance principles to determine biological and chemical sample suitability for laboratory testing.
The ability to understand and follow complex oral and written directions, processes, and workflows.
Must possess good oral and written communication skills.
Must possess working knowledge of computer and analytical software programs.
Must possess strong time management and organizational skills
Ability to celebrate diversity and a strong commitment to a respectful and inclusive work environment.
Preferred Qualifications
Advanced degree in a scientific field.
Two or more years of experience working in a laboratory setting.
Experience working in an accredited laboratory setting.
Experience managing and handling hazardous and biological waste.
Experience developing, reviewing, and modifying quality assurance procedures.
Physical Requirements
Regularly maintain stationary position for extended periods of time such as standing or sitting.
Regularly lift samples batches of 25 pounds.
Ability to move and transport samples.
Physical dexterity that permits standing, bending, kneeling and stretching.
This position exists in an analytical laboratory. As such, all potential safety hazards associated with this type of environment are assumed to be present. Hazards such as chemical exposure, hot surfaces, compressed gases and mechanical hazards exist in this section. This position must be comfortable working around these hazards and have sufficient knowledge to recognize and prevent harm to themselves or others. This position must be able to function in this environment and must be comfortable wearing personal protective gear.
Additional Requirements
A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. It is the policy of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, as part of its hiring procedures, to conduct background checks on the finalist(s) for positions within the agency. The background check may consist of the following components:
- SEMA4 Records Check (applies to current and former state employees only)
- Employment Reference Check
- Conflict of Interest Review
How To Apply
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Joseph Putrow at joseph.putrow@state.mn.us.
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Becky Hierlinger at becky.hierlinger@state.mn.us.
About Minnesota Department Of Agriculture
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has served our state for more than 125 years. The work we do touches every Minnesota citizen every day.
Our mission is to enhance all Minnesotans’ quality of life by equitably ensuring the integrity of our food supply, the health of our environment, and the strength and resilience of our agricultural economy.
Our three general areas of responsibility include:
- Protecting our food supply;
- Protecting our natural resources; and,
- Cultivating our agricultural economy.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
- A sense of purpose in their work
- Connection with their coworkers and communities
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include:
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- 12 paid holidays each year
- Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
- Fertility care, including IVF
- Diabetes care
- Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
- 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
- Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
- Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
- Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
- Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
- Training, classes, and professional development
- Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)
- A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
- Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
- Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants With Disabilities
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
Salary : $48,566 - $68,465
