GC-MS Analyst

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Position Summary

The GC‑MS Analyst is a technical leader and subject‑matter expert responsible for high‑complexity analytical testing in a high‑throughput production laboratory. This role requires hands‑on experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting GC‑MS and GC‑MS/MS instrumentation across multiple EPA and client‑specific methods, including but not limited to EPA Methods 8270 and 625.

The Analyst is expected to maintain productivity under demanding turnaround times, independently resolve technical challenges, ensure strict regulatory compliance, and contribute to method expansion, optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Hourly Rate: $22-25 

Primary Responsibilities

Instrument Operation & Technical Ownership

• Independently operate, maintain, and troubleshoot GC‑MS and GC‑MS/MS systems in a production environment
• Perform routine and advanced maintenance, including source cleaning, tuning, vacuum system diagnostics, column replacement, and performance verification
• Diagnose complex instrument and method performance issues, implementing corrective actions to minimize downtime
• Serve as a technical resource for instrument performance, repairs, and vendor interactions
• Maintain accurate and complete instrument logs, maintenance records, and run documentation

Analytical & Production Responsibilities

• Perform analyses using EPA 8270, EPA 625, and additional GC‑MS‑based methods, including modified and client‑specific protocols
• Execute calibrations, QC samples, and analytical batches in accordance with method, regulatory, and quality system requirements
• Maintain consistent productivity in a deadline‑driven production laboratory, balancing throughput with data quality
• Review chromatographic and mass spectral data for integration accuracy, compound identification, and reporting limits
• Conduct complex data review, reprocessing, and technical justifications as needed

Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with EPA, state, client, and accreditation requirements
• Evaluate and trend QA/QC metrics, including internal standards, surrogates, blanks, LCS, MS/MSD, and calibration criteria
• Identify non‑conformances and initiate corrective actions in collaboration with QA and Laboratory Operations
• Support regulatory audits, client assessments, and data package reviews
• Assist with SOP updates, technical deviations, and continuous improvement initiatives

Method Development & Technical Advancement

• Support method development, method modification, and validation activities for existing and new GC‑MS applications
• Evaluate new columns, conditions, extraction approaches, and instrumentation to improve performance or expand capability
• Assist in developing technical documentation, validation summaries, and method performance studies
• Provide technical mentoring and guidance to junior analysts on advanced analytical and troubleshooting techniques

Collaboration & Communication

• Communicate sequencing priorities, turnaround risks, and technical issues to Laboratory Operations, QA, and Project Management
• Provide clear documentation and explanations for analytical challenges or deviations
• Contribute to a safety‑focused, quality‑driven, and collaborative laboratory culture

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Advanced technical understanding of GC‑MS and GC‑MS/MS theory, operation, and troubleshooting
• Strong working knowledge of EPA 8270, EPA 625, and related GC‑MS methodologies
• Ability to execute multiple analytical methods concurrently in a high‑volume production environment
• Proven ability to perform under pressure while meeting strict client turnaround requirements
• Excellent attention to detail with strong analytical judgment
• Effective technical documentation and communication skills
• Proficiency with laboratory information systems, data processing software, and electronic records

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline
• One to Three years of hands‑on experience operating and maintaining GC‑MS and/or GC‑MS/MS instrumentation
• Demonstrated experience performing EPA 8270 and EPA 625 in a regulated environmental laboratory

Preferred Experience and Knowledge

• Experience performing multiple GC‑MS based EPA or client‑specific methods beyond 625 and 8270
• Direct involvement in method development, method optimization, or validation
• Experience in a high‑throughput environmental production laboratory
• Familiarity with Department of Defense (DoD) or other highly regulated compliance programs
• Experience supporting audits and defensible data packages

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit and/or stand for extended periods during an 8‑hour workday
• Manual dexterity required for instrument maintenance and sample preparation
• Ability to read and interpret chromatograms, mass spectra, and reports
• Ability to communicate clearly with peers and management

Working at ALS

Our people are our greatest asset and the foundation of our success. ALS is a diverse, inclusive community of professionals united by a shared purpose to make a meaningful difference. We recognize and reward excellence, invest in continuous learning, and provide career development opportunities across our global organization.