Analytical chemists employed by KDH

Analytical chemists employed by KDHE generally receive less pay than the department’s
microbiologists, environmental scientists, environmental geologists, and environmental engineers,
even though all such job classifications require comparable levels of education and training
(http://www.da.ks.gov/ps/specs/specs/default.htm). This disparity has contributed to a comparatively
rapid turnover rate among laboratory staff. Today, the KDHE laboratory frequently serves as a
stepping stone to better paying positions in DOE and the Division of Health. Ongoing losses of more
experienced laboratory personnel have led to sporadic delays in the analysis of water quality samples
and reporting of water quality data. On occasion, these losses have resulted in more serious quality
control complications. During the upcoming planning period, the department will explore available
options for reducing disparities in pay among scientific job classifications, with the goal of reducing
the turnover rate among laboratory employees.
Long-Term Recommendations
The following additional actions should be taken to ensure the maintenance of a comprehensive
water quality monitoring and assessment program in Kansas. These actions are unlikely to be
implemented during the upcoming planning period owing to budgetary constraints at both the state
and federal level. However, it is hoped that by acknowledging these issues at this time, an attempt
will be made to secure the necessary resources in the months and years ahead