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