WRM-2026-20 Research Scientist 3, Chemistry
Open to: General Public
Work Week: NL (35-hour) Work Week
Salary: (P25) $ 79,843.57 - $ 117,227.97
Opening Date: 7/28/2026
Closing Date: 8/11/2026
Existing Vacancies: 2
Program/Location
Department of Environmental Protection
Water Resource Management
Water Monitoring, Standards & Pesticide Control
Pesticide Control
401 East State Street
Trenton, NJ 08625
Scope of Eligibility
Open to applicants who meet the requirements below.
Description
Under the limited supervision of a Research Scientist 1 or other supervisory official in a State department, institution, or agency, implements and carries out chemical research projects designed by higher-level scientific staff, primarily in a laboratory setting and may include related field and/or office work; does other related duties as required.
Specific to the Position
This position will perform extractions and analysis of environmental samples for the presence of pesticide residues using the laboratory's Gas Chromatograph (GC) and Liquid Chromatograph (LC) triple quad instruments. The position will also maintain an active inventory of pesticide neat standards along with their Safety Data Sheet (SDS) which must be stored on site. Additional responsibilities also include conducting field monitoring of ground water, surface water, and NJ grown commodities (fruits & vegetables) for pesticide residue analysis; purchasing reagents, chemicals, and laboratory supplies to maintain an uninterrupted laboratory operation; participate in maintaining the pesticide use databases and surveys; and generate analytical reports for projects and presenting the findings.
Preferred Skill Set
Possess a strong analytical background and broad knowledge of pesticides.
Requirements
EDUCATION:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry or other appropriate physical or environmental science discipline.
EXPERIENCE:
Three (3) years of experience in chemical analysis or research; one (1) year of which must be in the operation of the gas chromatography mass spectrometer, gas chromatograph, high performance liquid chromatograph, fourier transform mass spectrometer, inductively coupled plasma spectrometer, atomic absorption spectrometer, x-ray defractor, transmission electron microscope, or updated replacement thereof.
License
Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.
SAME Applicants
If you are applying under the NJ SAME program, your supporting documents (Schedule A or B letter) must be submitted along with your resume by the closing date indicated above. For more information on the SAME program, please email SAME@csc.nj.gov, or call CSC at (609) 292-4144 and select Option #3.
Employee Benefits
As a New Jersey State Department, NJDEP offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Paid Benefit Leave
- Holiday Pay
- Alternative Workweek Program*
- Telework*
- Pension
- Deferred Compensation
- Health Benefits (medical, prescription drug, dental & vision care) and Life Insurance
- Flexible and Health Spending Accounts (FSA/HSA)
- Commuter Tax Savings Program
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
- Tuition Reimbursement*
*Pursuant to the State/Department's policy, procedures, and/or guidelines.
Veteran's Preference
To qualify for New Jersey Veteran's Preference/status, you must establish Veteran's Preference through the Department of Military and Veteran's Affairs. Please submit proof of your Veteran's Preference along with your resume as indicated. For more information, please visit https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/civil-service-preference/
Residency
All persons newly hired on or after September 1, 2011, have one year from the date of employment to establish, and then maintain principal residence in the State of New Jersey subject to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 52:14-7 (L.2011, Chapter 70), also known as the “New Jersey First Act”.
Authorization to Work
Selected candidates must be authorized to work in the United States per the Department of Homeland Security, United States Citizenship, and Immigration Services regulations. NOTE: The State of New Jersey does not provide sponsorship for citizenship to the United States.
Equal Opportunity Employment
The State of New Jersey seeks to increase the richness and diversity of its workforce, and in doing so, become the employer of choice for all people seeking to work in State Government. To evaluate the effectiveness of our efforts to attract and employ a diverse workforce, applicants are asked to voluntarily answer a few brief questions on the NJ Affirmative Action Information Form. All information is considered confidential and will be filed separately with the agency's affirmative action officer. This information will not be part of your application for employment and will not be considered in any hiring decision.
DEP Notices of Vacancy have a 4:00 p.m. deadline on the closing date. When filing for these opportunities, please be sure to have your letter of interest and credentials sent electronically before 4 p.m. on the closing date.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to inclusive hiring and a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage people from all backgrounds to apply. Accommodations under ADA will be provided upon request.