Position at Library of Congress

Chemist
Preservation Research and Testing Division (PRTD)
Library of Congress

Job Announcement Number 150218.

This is at the level of GS-1320-13 with a salary range of $90,823.00
to $118,069.00 per year

Open Period: Tuesday, October 13, 2015 - Monday, November 9, 2015

The chemist works only under the most general supervision of the
Chief of the Preservation Research and Testing Division, who may
outline in general terms the scientific and technical problems to be
studied and the chemical areas of opportunity which will contribute
to the Library's preservation research program.  Work is carried on
with a high degree of independence and originality with little if
any technical guidance.  Results are accepted as authoritative and
are reviewed generally for usefulness and degree of solution of
overall preservation problems.  Scientific contribution made by the
incumbent has significant potential for influencing the preservation
of library and archival collections worldwide.

For further information and application information see the USA Jobs
application site

    <URL:https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/418461300>

Duties include:

    Designs or directs the development of unique or leading-edge
    technology, instrumentation, or systems to meet specific
    scientific or mission requirements.  Projects significantly
    influence Library or government programs.  Serves as a technical
    expert in a specialized field of chemistry, namely, analytical
    separation chemistry

    Develops methodology for separation and characterization of
    degradation products formed in the aging of a variety of
    materials of which library collections are composed.  Calibrates
    and repairs various instruments such as high pressure liquid
    chromatographs, gel permeation chromatographs, gas
    chromatographs, ion chromatographs, mass spectrometers, etc.,
    that are routinely used to perform the necessary analyses.  Sets
    up and operates new instruments

    Plans projects to solve technical problems for which
    definitions, methods, and/or data are highly incomplete,
    controversial or uncertain.  Independently plans projects and
    provides guidance for lower level staff.  Performs a literature
    search to find applicable or related methods and information
    about the chemistry of the materials being studied.  Develops
    new chemical analytical procedures

    Serves as a leading scientist in chemical analysis.  Performs or
    directs analyses of samples that require technical expertise
    and/or use advanced analytical instruments.  Devises new or
    modified methods based on the chemical and physical properties
    of the materials involved and the availability of instruments to
    perform the analyses; devises modifications of methods following
    their application, to correct problems or to improve methods

    Researches and develops new and original conservation techniques
    and procedures.  Conducts original and novel research programs
    to determine properties and effects of a wide range of physical
    and chemical variables on the preservation of various materials

Any additional questions about this conservation scientist position
can be directed to

        Dr. Fenella G. France
        Chief of PRTD
        frfr<-at->loc<.>gov


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 29:22
                 Distributed: Sunday, October 18, 2015
                       Message Id: cdl-29-22-026
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