What are the responsibilities and job description for the Environmental Analytical Chemist position at CSS, Inc?
Join a high-impact team at the forefront of environmental response and analytical science. CSS is seeking a skilled Environmental Analytical Chemist to support critical field and laboratory operations, delivering real-time data that informs decisions during environmental and national response efforts. Our mobile laboratories play a critical role in supporting Incidents of National Significance. This team provides rapid, on-site and remote chemical analysis to detect toxic industrial chemicals, chemical warfare agents, and their degradation products across diverse environmental matrices (air, soil, water, and surface wipe). Your work will directly contribute to public safety, environmental protection, and national response readiness.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform quantitative and qualitative analysis of environmental samples to determine physical and chemical properties using advanced analytical techniques in organic and physical chemistry
- Operate and maintain sophisticated instrumentation, including Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) and Electron Capture Detection (ECD) systems within mobile laboratory environments
- Execute a wide range of EPA analytical methods, including SW-846 methods 8260, 8270, 8081, 8082, and others
- Conduct sample receipt, logging, and preparation for laboratory analysis while ensuring strict adherence to quality control protocols
- Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation; manage laboratory supplies and inventory
- Collaborate with chemists and cross-functional teams to support analytical workflows and problem-solving efforts
- Participate in planning and strategy discussions; recommend improvements to protocols, standard operating procedures (SOPs), instrumentation, and analytical techniques
- Assist in evaluating and optimizing laboratory processes, including setup, operation, and maintenance (O&M) of equipment and execution of complex experimental procedures involving novel or high-priority samples
Required Qualifications
- U.S. Citizenship is required
- Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in environmental organic analytical laboratory operations
- Demonstrated experience working with Agilent instrumentation, including GC/MS systems
- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related physical science
- Strong understanding of organic sample preparation and chromatographic techniques
- Ability to start within 2–3 weeks and work on-site in Edison, NJ
- Willingness and ability to travel as needed, including deployment to field locations in support of environmental emergency response operations
- Ability to successfully pass and maintain a National Agency Check (NACI) background investigation and complete a pre-employment drug screening
- Strong communication, organizational, and computer skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with Agilent MSD MassHunter software
- Experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
- Familiarity with EPA methods for organic chemistry analysis
- OSHA HAZWOPER certification