Chemist I

Provides entry-level chemical and analytical support across installation environmental programs, including hazardous waste/`RCRA`, wastewater/`NPDES`, hazardous building materials (asbestos, `PCB`, lead), radon, and related compliance activities. Supports sampling events, laboratory coordination, data quality review, and defensible reporting under approved quality systems to help the Government meet permit and regulatory requirements.

Compensation & Benefits

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Chemist I:

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Chemist I Responsibilities Include

• Support waste characterization and profile development through sampling coordination and analytical review to support proper hazardous waste determinations consistent with `40 CFR 261`.
• Coordinate field/lab testing (analysis) under an approved `QAPP` (approved by the Contractor `QAM` and accepted by the NSWC Crane EP `QAM`, applicable `IEPD`, and applicable Environmental Media Manager) prior to any sampling or analysis activities.
• Prepare sampling documentation packages (sample plans, bottle orders, preservation requirements, chain-of-custody forms) and coordinate sample shipment/drop-off and hold-time tracking with laboratories.
• Review and organize laboratory data packages for completeness and quality (e.g., method references, QA/QC summaries, detection limits, qualifiers, and nonconformance documentation) and elevate data quality concerns to senior staff.
• Support characterization analyses using appropriate methods (as applicable), including `EPA SW-846`, hazardous waste characteristic testing, `TCLP`, and `PCB` analyses; compile results for reporting and waste profile documentation.
• Support `NPDES`/water program sampling events by coordinating required lab analyses, tracking results, and organizing data for submittal (including support for `NetDMR` data entry under direction/review of the program lead).
• Support `PCB` inspections/sampling programs by coordinating mixed-media and oil sample analyses; compile analytical results and provide result packages to the designated Government program manager as directed.
• Support lead sampling programs (including paint and mixed media) by coordinating lab analysis and organizing results for renovation/demolition decision support.
• Support radon sampling programs by tracking device deployment/retrieval logs, coordinating vendor/lab processing, and organizing results and follow-up documentation.
• Draft technical inputs and supporting attachments for reports, permit inputs, and data calls, including clear summaries of analytical methods, results, and key findings.
• Maintain organized electronic and hardcopy program records (lab reports, chain-of-custody, calibration logs where applicable, data summaries, and correspondence) to support audits and inspections.
• Follow site safety requirements and applicable training standards; use required PPE and safe handling practices when working around chemicals, waste containers, or industrial environments.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned
  
  

Chemist I Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities Requested

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Environmental Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• 0–3 years of relevant experience supporting environmental sampling programs, laboratory analysis, data validation/QA review, or environmental compliance support (internship experience counts).
• Familiarity with environmental analytical concepts, including QA/QC, detection limits, data qualifiers, and chain-of-custody practices.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to produce accurate, well-organized data summaries and documentation.
• Proficiency with standard office tools (spreadsheets, word processing, and `PDF` review tools).
• Familiarity with `RCRA` waste characterization and `40 CFR 261` determinations.
• Working knowledge of `EPA SW-846` methods and common environmental analyses (e.g., metals, `VOC/SVOC`, `TCLP`, `PCB`).
• Experience supporting water/wastewater monitoring and electronic reporting systems (e.g., `NetDMR`).
• `40-hour HAZWOPER` (or ability to obtain, if required by the site).
• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

Company Information:

Cherokee Strategic Solutions (CSS) is a part of Cherokee Federal – the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government’s mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CSS, visit cherokee-federal.com.

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Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.