Shift:
Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About the jobLocation: West Columbia, SC
Schedule: Full-Time, Onsite (Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
SummaryWe are seeking an experienced
PFAS Technical Specialist to join our Environmental Testing Lab. This role serves as the subject matter expert (SME) for PFAS analysis, method development, and quality assurance. The successful candidate will ensure the lab can accurately detect and quantify PFAS in water, soil, tissue, and other matrices in compliance with EPA/state methods and client requirements.
As the technical leader for the PFAS department, this individual will implement new methods, introduce best practices, and provide training to ensure a highly functioning team from both a technical and productivity standpoint.
Essential FunctionsMethod Expertise & Development- Lead implementation of PFAS-specific analytical methods (e.g., EPA 537.1, 533, 8327, 1633, ASTM, ISO).
- Adapt and validate methods for complex matrices (wastewater, biosolids, air).
- Stay current with evolving regulatory standards and anticipate future requirements.
Laboratory Operations- Oversee operation of LC-MS/MS instruments (core to PFAS detection).
- Troubleshoot instrumentation, sample prep, and extraction issues (e.g., solid-phase extraction).
- Ensure proper PFAS-free practices (avoiding Teflon, PTFE, fluoropolymer contamination).
Quality Assurance & Compliance- Maintain accreditation (NELAP, DoD ELAP, state certifications).
- Review QC samples (blanks, LCS, spikes, duplicates) to ensure compliance with method criteria.
- Write, review, and update SOPs and QA/QC protocols.
Training & Mentorship- Train analysts and technicians on PFAS-specific methods, handling, and analysis.
- Serve as the department's technical resource for PFAS-related questions.
- Support staff development to ensure consistent performance and client satisfaction.
Client & Project Support- Advise project managers on method selection, detection limits, and data interpretation.
- Support data validation and prepare defensible client/regulatory reports.
- Provide technical support during audits and inspections.
QualificationsEducation & Experience:- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or related field required.
- 5+ years of PFAS analytical experience required.
Technical Skills:- LC-MS/MS operation & maintenance (AB Sciex or Agilent platforms).
- Sample prep/extraction (SPE, QuEChERS).
- LIMS, instrument software, and regulatory reporting tools.
Preferred Experience:- Method development in PFAS testing.
- Training staff on PFAS-specific methods.
- Supporting audits or regulatory inspections.
Soft Skills:- Strong technical writing (SOPs, reports, client communications).
- Problem-solving and innovation in method development.
- Ability to clearly explain technical results to non-technical audiences.
Why Pace?At Pace® Analytical Services, your curiosity, expertise, and dedication help us advance science and make communities healthier and safer. We offer a collaborative workplace, opportunities for growth, and a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Competitive salary
- Medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with immediate vesting
- Paid time off (holiday, sick, vacation)
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development programs
- Wellness, parental leave, and additional voluntary benefits
Pace® Analytical Services provides a compensation range for informational purposes; the actual base salary may vary depending on factors such as relevant experience, technical expertise, internal equity, business sector, and geographic location.
To learn more about Pace®, please visit our website at www.pacelabs.com.
We support your growth! Even if you don't meet every single requirement, we encourage you to apply. At Pace®, we're committed to investing in your professional development and helping you build a rewarding career in science and laboratory services.
We embrace diversity! Pace® Analytical Services believes that innovation and strength come from diverse perspectives.
Sustainability matters to us! At Pace®, we take our responsibility to the environment seriously. From implementing greener practices in our laboratories to driving efficiency and waste reduction, our teams are empowered to make a lasting positive impact in the communities we serve.
Find out more about careers at Pace®: Pace Careers.
Benefits
When you join Pace®, you commit to work that makes a positive impact on our communities and our world. We commit to supporting you with benefits and perks that make a positive impact on your life. Full-time roles are eligible for our comprehensive benefits program which includes competitive salaries, medical, dental vision, 401K retirement savings plan (100% vested immediately in the employer match), life, disability and voluntary benefits, paid time off for holiday, sick and vacation days, HSA, wellness program, flexible spending accounts, tuition reimbursement, Employee Assistance program, parental leave, optional legal coverage and ID theft.