Position Summary
The Environmental Analyst in the Metal Section performs laboratory-based testing and analysis of metals in environmental samples using advanced analytical instruments. The role emphasizes data accuracy, adherence to EPA protocols, and upholding quality assurance standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct trace-metal analysis in environmental matrices (water, wastewater, soil, sludge, biosolids, etc.) following EPA methods (200.7, 200.8, 245.1, 3050B, etc.).
- Perform sample preparation including hot-block digestion, microwave digestion, and fusion techniques.
- Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot analytical instrumentation:
- ICP-OES and ICP-MS for multi-element quantification
- Graphite Furnace AA (GFAA), Cold Vapor AA (CVAAS), and Cold Vapor Atomic Fluorescence (CVAFS) for mercury and other ultra-trace metals
- UV-Vis spectrophotometry for colorimetric metal assays
- Execute full QA/QC protocols per EPA and NELAC/TNI standards: calibration curves, continuing calibration verification (CCV), blanks, laboratory control samples (LCS), matrix spikes/duplicates, and internal standards.
- Enter, review, and validate data in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS); flag outliers and ensure traceability.
- Participate in internal audits, proficiency testing (PT), and method validation studies.
- Collaborate with QA officers, senior analysts, and cross-functional teams on non-routine investigations, method improvements, and regulatory reporting.
- Maintain detailed electronic bench sheets and logbooks in compliance with SOPs.
Key Competencies
- Analytical Chemistry Expertise
- Proven metal analysis in environmental matrices
- Sample digestion (EPA 200.7, 200.8, 245.1, etc.)
- Data validation and result interpretation
- Instrumentation Skills
- Direct hands-on experience or formal training with:
- ICP-OES / ICP-MS
- GFAA / CVAAS / CVAFS
- Colorimetric methods (spectrophotometry)
- Block digestors and wet-chemistry prep
- Quality Assurance/Control
- QA/QC compliance with EPA and NELAC guidelines
- Calibration, blanks, LCS, spikes, duplicates
- Internal audit participation
- Strict SOP adherence
- LIMS Proficiency
- Data entry, result reporting, issue flagging
- Data integrity and traceability
- Collaboration & Adaptability
- Teamwork with QA staff and peers
- Support for ad-hoc projects and investigations
- Clear communication of anomalies and process improvements
Ideal Background / Experience
- Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Analytical Chemistry, or related discipline.
- Experience: 1–3+ years in an accredited environmental laboratory with primary focus on metals analysis.
- Certifications (preferred): NELAC/TNI assessor training, EPA method-specific certifications, LIMS user certification.
