Environmental Analyst

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

1. Analytical Chemistry Expertise
2. • Proven metal analysis in environmental matrices
   • Sample digestion (EPA 200.7, 200.8, 245.1, etc.)
   • Data validation and result interpretation
3. Instrumentation Skills
4. • Direct hands-on experience or formal training with:
   • • ICP-OES / ICP-MS
     • GFAA / CVAAS / CVAFS
     • Colorimetric methods (spectrophotometry)
     • Block digestors and wet-chemistry prep
5. Quality Assurance/Control
6. • QA/QC compliance with EPA and NELAC guidelines
   • Calibration, blanks, LCS, spikes, duplicates
   • Internal audit participation
   • Strict SOP adherence
7. LIMS Proficiency
8. • Data entry, result reporting, issue flagging
   • Data integrity and traceability
9. Collaboration & Adaptability
10. • 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.