Chemist

Job Title:

Intermediate Chemist - GC-MSJob Description

The Intermediate Chemist - GC-MS performs routine and non-routine analyses using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) in a high-throughput environmental testing laboratory. This role involves hands-on sample preparation, instrument operation, data interpretation, and strict adherence to established quality and regulatory standards such as EPA methods. The chemist works efficiently in a production-driven environment while maintaining high levels of data integrity, accuracy, and overall analytical quality.

Responsibilities

+ Perform quantitative and qualitative analysis of environmental samples such as water, soil, and air using GC-MS techniques.

+ Operate GC-MS instruments in accordance with standard operating procedures, ensuring consistent and reliable performance.

+ Calibrate GC-MS instrumentation and perform routine tuning and performance checks to maintain optimal analytical capability.

+ Execute established analytical methods, including EPA methods such as 8260, 8270, and other GC-MS-based procedures.

+ Troubleshoot instrument issues, resolve routine operational problems, and minimize analytical downtime.

+ Prepare samples using techniques such as purge-and-trap, liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), and solid-phase extraction (SPE).

+ Handle and process samples in accordance with chain-of-custody requirements and document all activities accurately.

+ Ensure proper labeling, storage, and tracking of samples throughout the analytical workflow.

+ Process and interpret chromatographic and mass spectral data to identify and quantify target analytes.

+ Review analytical results for accuracy, precision, and compliance with established QA/QC criteria.

+ Perform data verification and validation prior to releasing results for reporting.

+ Enter, manage, and maintain analytical data within Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).

+ Adhere to quality assurance and quality control protocols, including calibration verification, blanks, spikes, and duplicates.

+ Identify, investigate, and resolve quality control issues and non-conformances in a timely manner.

+ Support internal and external audits and regulatory inspections by providing accurate records and documentation.

+ Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment, following all housekeeping and safety practices.

+ Ensure compliance with all applicable health, safety, and environmental regulations and laboratory policies.

+ Assist in method development and optimization to improve analytical performance, efficiency, and throughput.

+ Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the laboratory to enhance quality and productivity.

+ Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet client turnaround times and support overall laboratory objectives.

Essential Skills

+ Hands-on experience with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) in an analytical laboratory setting.

+ Strong background in analytical chemistry with a focus on environmental testing applications.

+ Proficiency in operating, calibrating, and maintaining GC-MS instrumentation.

+ Experience executing EPA-based GC-MS methods, including methods such as 8260 and 8270 or similar procedures.

+ Practical experience with sample preparation techniques such as purge-and-trap, liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), and solid-phase extraction (SPE).

+ Ability to process, interpret, and evaluate chromatographic and mass spectral data.

+ Familiarity with QA/QC practices, including calibration verification, blanks, spikes, and duplicates.

+ Competence in identifying and resolving quality control issues and non-conformances.

+ Experience using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for data entry and management.

+ Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining data integrity and accuracy in a production-driven environment.

+ Ability to work efficiently in a high-throughput laboratory while meeting deadlines and turnaround time requirements.

+ Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations applicable to laboratory operations.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Experience working in an environmental testing laboratory.

+ Exposure to method development and optimization for GC-MS analyses.

+ Ability to support internal and external audits and regulatory inspections through accurate documentation and record-keeping.

+ Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional laboratory teams.

+ Demonstrated ability to contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in laboratory processes and workflows.

Work Environment

The role is based in an environmental testing laboratory that operates in a high-throughput, production-driven setting. The chemist works with advanced analytical instrumentation, particularly GC-MS systems, and utilizes techniques such as purge-and-trap, liquid-liquid extraction, and solid-phase extraction for sample preparation. The environment emphasizes strict adherence to health, safety, and…