Chemist- Water & Soil

Responsibilities

• Analytical Testing & Laboratory Work
  • Conduct routine and specialized testing on:
    Treated water, feed water, brine, and RO concentrate; soil, sediment, sludge, precipitates, and scale.
  • Perform wet-chemistry and instrumental analyses using: pH/ORP meters; conductivity/TDS meters; ion-selective electrodes; turbidimeters; hardness, alkalinity, chloride, and other titration methods; TOC analyzer; bench-top IC or ICP (if installed).
  • Conduct sample preparation, preservation, and chain-of-custody management for metals, VOCs, and WET testing through accredited external laboratories.
  • Validate and troubleshoot analytical methods and instruments.

• Compliance Support
  • Execute field sampling and internal laboratory testing required for TPDES permit compliance.
  • Coordinate sample collection schedules for NPDES testing.
  • Maintain accurate, organized internal data logs and documentation to support the QA/QC Manager in regulatory review.
  • Ensure sampling and testing adhere to TCEQ and method-specific guidelines (TNI/NELAC experience a plus).

• Research & Process Optimization
  • Run bench-scale tests to evaluate: scaling and fouling tendencies; corrosion indicators; oxidant effectiveness; desalination performance; GAC polishing and RO performance impacts.
  • Provide analytical insights to improve treatment efficiency, freeze desalination performance, and downstream polishing efficiency.
  • Develop internal testing protocols and assist in method selection for the expanding on-site lab.

• Leadership & Lab Management
  • Supervise chemistry technicians and sample technicians, ensuring proper method execution, safety, and data integrity.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and audit-ready laboratory environment.
  • Support training on sampling procedures, proper testing practices, and data organization.
  • Assist the QA/QC Manager in equipment selection and laboratory build-out.

• Data Analysis & Reporting Support
  • Produce data visualizations, trend analysis, and technical summaries for internal stakeholders.
  • Interpret analytical data to identify anomalies, process issues, or compliance risks.
  • Manage and update LIMS data entries and electronic data tracking systems.

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or closely related field.
• 2+ years of experience in oil & gas, environmental laboratories, or water treatment.
• Experience with produced water or oilfield analytical work is highly preferred.
• Strong working knowledge of wet chemistry methods, water quality analysis, and environmental sampling.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; experience producing clear data visualizations.
• Ability to work independently in a remote laboratory setting.

• Experience in accredited analytical laboratories (TNI/NELAC).
• Background in soil chemistry or environmental soil science.
• Previous experience with LIMS software.
• Familiarity with TCEQ and NPDES/TPDES monitoring requirements.
• Experience supervising or training laboratory staff.

• Ability to work full-time on-site in Orla, TX in a remote industrial environment.
• Able to perform field sampling, collect soil/water samples, climb stairs, lift up to ~40 lbs, and work near process equipment.
• Willingness to work some Fridays and support occasional after-hours needs.