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
   
• Proven metal analysis in environmental matrices
  
• Sample digestion (EPA 200.7, 200.8, 245.1, etc.)
  
• Data validation and result interpretation
  
2. 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
  
3. Quality Assurance/Control
   
• QA/QC compliance with EPA and NELAC guidelines
  
• Calibration, blanks, LCS, spikes, duplicates
  
• Internal audit participation
  
• Strict SOP adherence
  
4. LIMS Proficiency
   
• Data entry, result reporting, issue flagging
  
• Data integrity and traceability
  
5. 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.