The duties involve the application of professional expertise in toxicology to the establishment and maintenance of standards affecting industrial health and safety, and the conduct of laboratory analyses. Incumbents may serve as consultants providing technical assistance, training and recommendations on exposure standards and chemical characteristics of toxic substances. Other incumbents may work with investigative laboratories in the study of specimens for toxic effects. This work may require an incumbent to anticipate possible causes of death and provide findings and opinions for legal proceedings. Supervision may be exercised over laboratory assistants.
General direction is received from a medical examiner or program director.
Performs a variety of laboratory tests involving highly technical procedures to determine extent of toxicity on such specimens as human or animal organs, edibles, or inorganic matter. Researches existing literature and data banks, and establishes liaison with technical and research centers. May provide professional advice and information on occupational related illnesses or deaths to private medical professionals. Qualification Standards Graduation from an accredited college or university with a master s degree in chemistry or biology with courses in pharmacology, biochemistry and analytical chemistry, and two years of related toxicological experience. A Ph.D. in toxicology, pharmacology, pharmaceutical chemistry or biochemistry may be substituted for experience.