Research Chemist

ERG is a research and consulting firm that provides a wide range of support to federal, state, and commercial clients. ERG offers multidisciplinary teams with nationally recognized skills in engineering, science, economics, public health, informational technology, and communications. We hire people with the best minds and then provide them with a vibrant and flexible environment in which to develop their careers.

The qualified individual must be highly motivated with the skills to prioritize, perform, and communicate effectively in a fast-paced environment.

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Chemist to join our growing technical team. This role is ideal for a driven professional with in-depth knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances, as well as the chemical processes and transformations they undergo. This includes understanding chemical applications, interactions, hazards, production techniques, and safe disposal methods.

The ideal candidate is eager to take ownership of complex projects and contribute to impactful environmental and combustion research.

The successful candidate will initially focus on hands-on technical execution and will have opportunities to quickly grow into roles leading projects, shaping technical direction, and supporting team development.

Job Description

• Provide professional technical support within allocated task resources and contribute to overall efficiency of scientific operations, achieving increasing levels of independent accomplishment
• Adhere to Quality Assurance Program Plans, Work or Test Plans, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Health & Safety Plans; thoroughly and consistently document all laboratory activities in designated notebooks
• Maintain laboratory spaces according to Safety, Health, and Environmental Management criteria; evaluate laboratory safety procedures to ensure compliance or recommend improvements
• Confer with scientists or engineers to conduct analyses of research projects, interpret test results, or develop nonstandard tests
• Prepare test solutions, compounds, or reagents for laboratory personnel to conduct experiments
• Perform preparation, extraction, and analysis of target compounds from various environmental sample matrices and sampling equipment or media (e.g., air sampling canisters, XAD, thermal desorption tubes, SPE cartridges, filters)
• Prepare sampling media (e.g., XAD, filters, canisters, thermal desorption tubes) prior to field deployment and accurately document preparation procedures
• Analyze sample preparations using GC/MS, LC/MS, or other analytical techniques; reduce sample data and report analytical results in a timely manner
• Conduct quality control tests and evaluate results against data quality indicator goals; perform corrective actions as prescribed by QA and/or project management
• Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory instruments to ensure proper functionality
• Compile and analyze test information to evaluate process or equipment performance or diagnose malfunctions
• Communicate processes, results, and challenges to supervisors and management teams
• Assist in writing technical papers or reports, and prepare standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, or tests
• Develop, improve, or customize products, equipment, formulas, processes, or analytical methods
• Recommend and manage laboratory supply purchases, including chemicals, to maintain adequate working inventory

Qualifications and Skills:

• Minimum of 2+ years of experience operating gas chromatography (GC) instrumentation, preferably including GC/MS instrumentation for EPA methods
• Proficiency with instrument plumbing, including gas and liquid lines
• Familiarity with standard laboratory hygiene practices and protocols
• Legible and accurate scientific writing
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and analytical/scientific software
• Ability to interpret technical manuals, equipment documentation, and laboratory procedures
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
• Experience applying EPA air emissions methodologies
• Proven ability to author technical documentation, including safety plans, operational procedures, facility manuals, and technical reports
• Occasional lifting up to 35 lbs. (<5% of work time)
• Regular use of industrial PPE, including safety glasses, protective footwear, lab coats, and gloves (:80% of work time)
• Ability to work in moderate industrial noise environments (<10% of work time)

ERG offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits, including health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability