Chemist - Gas Chromatography

Job Title: Chemist - Gas ChromatographyJob Description

This role focuses on providing accurate and reliable analytical services using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques in a laboratory setting. You will perform routine extractions, chemical isolation, and sample clean-up, while preparing reagents and analytical standards in accordance with documented methods and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). You will operate a variety of laboratory instruments and software to support high-quality analytical testing in both organic and inorganic chemistry.

Responsibilities

• Provide accurate and timely analytical services and results in accordance with established laboratory methods and SOPs.
• Perform routine sample extraction, chemical isolation, and sample clean-up using techniques such as blending, shaking, Soxhlet extraction, digestion, solid phase extraction (SPE), distillation and condensation, liquid-liquid partitioning, and chemical derivatization.
• Extract samples and prepare reagents to support gas chromatography and mass spectrometry analyses.
• Operate laboratory apparatus and equipment including blenders, nitrogen evaporators, rotary evaporators, shakers, pH meters, centrifuges, balances, and pipettes.
• Conduct sample preparation and bench chemistry activities to support GC, GC-MS, and GC-MS/MS analyses.
• Perform gas chromatography analysis, including full scan and reaction monitoring, using Agilent instruments and associated software.
• Use Masshunter or similar acquisition software to run analyses and perform acquisition method modifications as needed within established guidelines.
• Carry out sample analysis in both organic and inorganic chemistry, ensuring adherence to analytical protocols and quality standards.
• Apply chromatographic separation and mass spectrometry techniques, including tandem mass spectrometry, to identify and quantify analytes.
• Troubleshoot basic issues with GC, GC-MS, and related laboratory equipment and software to maintain smooth analytical operations.
• Independently document and prepare reagents and analytical working standards according to current SOPs.
• Record and manage analytical data using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) or related laboratory data systems.
• Follow all laboratory safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized, and compliant work area.
• Collaborate with colleagues to support overall laboratory productivity, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience with gas chromatography (GC), including GC analysis and chromatographic separation techniques.
• Experience with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS).
• Proficiency in mass spectrometry, including full scan and reaction monitoring modes.
• Experience with Agilent instruments and Masshunter software for data acquisition and method modification.
• Strong skills in sample preparation, extraction, and general bench chemistry techniques.
• Ability to perform sample extractions using techniques such as Soxhlet extraction, digestion, SPE, distillation/condensation, and liquid-liquid partitioning.
• Competence in operating laboratory equipment including pH meters, centrifuges, balances, pipettes, blenders, nitrogen evaporators, and rotary evaporators.
• Knowledge of analytical chemistry and inorganic and organic chemistry principles as applied to laboratory testing.
• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or similar laboratory data systems.
• Ability to troubleshoot routine issues in GC, GC-MS, and related analytical equipment and software.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow documented methods and SOPs precisely.
• Effective documentation skills for recording analytical methods, reagent preparation, and test results.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor"s degree in Chemistry or a related science from a four-year college or university, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with gas chromatograph software and GS software platforms.
• Familiarity with sample prep and sample analysis workflows in an analytical laboratory environment.
• Exposure to both organic and inorganic analytical methods.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively in a team-oriented laboratory.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple samples and tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Work Environment

This position is based in a laboratory environment using general laboratory equipment and instruments for analytical chemistry. You will work primarily at the bench, performing sample preparation, extractions, and instrument operation on equipment such as GC, GC-MS, pH meters, centrifuges, balances, pipettes, blenders, nitrogen evaporators, and rotary evaporators. The facility provides designated free parking in a downtown location. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical and vision insurance with a high employer contribution, health savings account support, dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, supplemental insurance options, legal and identity protection services, a 401(k) plan, paid time off, 13 paid holidays, and access to partner employee stores. There is a strong culture of appreciation and recognition, with a history of annual bonuses over the past decade (not guaranteed and prorated for partial-year employment). The work environment promotes community and engagement through monthly food events such as dinners, happy hours, catered lunches or breakfasts, a summer BBQ, and a Kids to Work Day. Dress expectations align with standard laboratory safety and professionalism requirements appropriate for working with analytical instruments and chemicals.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Portland, OR.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $49920.00 - $57200.00/yr.

Benefits: Medical/vision insurance (company covers 100% of EE premium and 90% of dependent and HSA- company covers 100% of premium and contributes to HSA every month), dental insurance, LTD, FSA, supplemental insurance, LegalShield/IDShield, 401(k), PTO, 13 paid holidays, and partnership with Adidas and Columbia employee store.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Portland,OR.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 3, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.