Entry-Level Laboratory Analyst, Air Toxics - GC-MS (Mon -Fri 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM)

Description

WHY US?

Sterling Labs invests in the success of our team. We are seeking highly motivated individuals who want to invest in their skill sets and careers, be rewarded for their initiative, and thrive in a collaborative environment. Our analytical data has a tremendous impact on protecting human health and the environment. We value teamwork, continuous improvement, growth, and empowered ethical decision-making.

We Preserve the Planet to Protect the Future.

Our Core Values:

• We strive for Integrity in Everything We Do. We're honest and transparent in our actions and decisions.
• We are Customer-Focused. We prioritize our customers' needs and value their feedback.
• We are Never Satisfied and are dedicated to continuous improvement. We always seek ways to improve and adapt to changing needs.

Sterling Labs' growth has been directly tied to our clients’ needs for 36 years. We are a growth-oriented organization that prioritizes our clients. We partner with manufacturers, engineering firms, and government agencies to provide environmental laboratory data that helps protect the environment. From wastewater sampling and analysis in greater Chicago and Milwaukee to nationwide service with Department of Defense partners, our commitment to our clients drives our growth.

Objectives

The Air Toxics GC-MS Analyst performs a wide variety of tasks to achieve production and quality goals. The Air Toxics GC-MS Analyst adheres to Sterling Labs’ standard operating procedures (SOPs) in a culture of safety, honesty, and ethical behavior. Duties are performed under the direction of the supervisor to meet client service requests. The role requires motivation to complete projects successfully and meet client expectations.

Duties of the Position

Primary Analytical Tasks

• TO15

Secondary (Backup) Analytical Tasks

• 8260/624 SIM

Key Responsibilities

• Manage sample workload to meet reporting deadlines.
• Upload and review results in Sterling Labs’ Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Prepare and assemble containers and canisters for client orders.
• Maintain inventory of canisters & associated carts. 
• Quantify and qualify results according to analytical methods and SOPs.
• Report accurate and timely data in Element.
• Produce Level IV PDF data at the time of analytical reporting.
• Calibrate instruments accurately per SOPs.
• Build sequence and batch data to maximize instrument run efficiency.
• Perform daily and ongoing instrument maintenance (e.g., inlet maintenance, column changes, source cleaning).
• Prepare standards and reagents for analysis.
• Assess sample quality before analysis to protect instruments and ensure compliance with client objectives.
• Assist the manager in identifying sources of problems (Corrective Action Reports) and implementing corrective actions.
• Assist other analysts and extractors in lab areas as workflow demands require, under the direction of the manager.
• Maintain good housekeeping habits and assist with the disposal of samples.
• Communicate workload status and data quality issues to the manager.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including assistance with other analyses and extractions.

Instruments Used

• Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)
• Laboratory Scales
• Pipettes
• Syringes

BENEFITS & COMPANSATION

Understanding that employee well-being is essential to performance, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees, including:

• Healthcare Coverage – Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Financial Protection – 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Work-Life Balance – Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays

Compensation: This is an entry-level role, compensated at $19.00 per hour, paid biweekly, with opportunities for overtime.

Requirements

Qualifications

• B.S. or B.A. degree in Chemistry preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated, goal-driven, and outcome-oriented.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift or move up to 25 pounds safely.
• Work in cold environments (e.g., cold room/cooler) for short periods.
• Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Vision requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
• Perform physical tasks including standing, walking, sitting, handling objects, reaching, climbing stairs, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, talking, hearing, tasting, and smelling.