Chemist-EPA Drinking Water Testing; Contractor

Why RTI

RTI International is an independent, scientific research institute dedicated to improving the human condition. Our vision is to address the world's most critical problems with technical and science-based solutions in pursuit of a better future. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach—one that integrates expertise across social, statistical, data, and laboratory sciences, engineering, and other technical disciplines to solve the world’s most challenging problems.

We believe in the promise of science and technical solutions, and we push ourselves every day to deliver on that promise for the good of people, communities, and businesses in the US and around the world. If you are looking for the opportunity to make a real difference, RTI is the place for you.

You will be responsible for developing, optimizing, validating, and implementing analytical methods supporting EPA drinking water regulations, the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR), and other environmental testing programs within an accredited laboratory.

Working under general supervision, you will perform complex laboratory analyses and help ensure analytical methods and data meet applicable regulatory, quality, and laboratory standards.

You will perform method validation and verification, conduct routine and complex analyses using GC-MS, LC-MS/MS, and related instrumentation, and review analytical data to ensure accuracy, quality, and regulatory compliance. The role evaluates chromatograms, mass spectra, calibration and quality control data, troubleshoots analytical methods and instrumentation, and supports method implementation into routine laboratory operations.

You will contribute to proficiency testing, laboratory audits, instrument maintenance, documentation, and continuous improvement efforts while collaborating with laboratory staff, Quality Assurance, and project teams to deliver accurate, timely, and defensible analytical results.

To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate strong analytical skills, scientific judgment, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining high‑quality laboratory practices in support of public health and environmental protection.

NOTE: This role is classified as a contract position
. The selected individual will provide services under a contractual employment through our staffing partner, HR Directions. Continuation of the assignment is subject to project needs, funding, and satisfactory performance.

• Develop, optimize, and implement analytical methods for organic contaminants in drinking water testing using EPA Standard Methods
• Apply data integrity and defensibility principles, including independent data review, chromatogram and mass spectral review, ion ratio/confirmation criteria, audit trails for data changes
• Design and execute method validation studies in accordance with EPA standard methods (e.g., MDL’s, precision, accuracy, linearity, range, and robustness).
• Determine method detection limits (MDLs), reporting limits, and quality control acceptance criteria.
• Prepare and maintain comprehensive reports and support documentation for certification and audit purposes.
• Evaluate method performance and implement improvements to enhance sensitivity, accuracy, and efficiency.
• Provide training and technical support to routine laboratory staff on the validated methods.
• Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality documentation.
• Troubleshoot complex analytical and instrumentation issues across GC-MS and LC-MS-MS.
• Ensure all methods comply with EPA requirements for drinking water analysis.
• Support internal and external audits, including responses to findings and corrective actions.
• Collaborate with QA staff, project managers, and laboratory leadership on method implementation and compliance strategy.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or related field (required)
• 3-5+ years of experience in an environmental laboratory
• Demonstrated experience in method development, validation and routine analysis.
• Experience operating…