Chemist

Intermediate Chemist – GC-MS

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…