Job Type
Full-time
Description
We are seeking an experienced and highly technical
Senior Chemist to join our environmental lab in
Reading, PA.
This is a great opportunity for a hands-on analytical expert who can lead from the bench while helping drive laboratory performance. Reporting to the Lab Manager, the Senior Chemist will serve as a key technical partner and day-to-day resource for the laboratory team, taking ownership of complex methods, instrumentation, data quality, investigations, and technical problem-solving.
The ideal candidate combines deep analytical expertise with the judgment, initiative, and communication skills needed to mentor others, resolve operational challenges, and support a fast-paced, high-volume laboratory.
What You'll Do- Serve as a senior technical resource, providing guidance, resolving technical escalations, and supporting workflow and turnaround priorities
- Perform advanced trace metals analysis on environmental and QC samples in accordance with EPA methods and lab procedures
- Review and validate analytical data, results, LIMS documentation, and QA/QC to identify instrument drift, matrix interferences, analytical discrepancies, and sample anomalies
- Develop, validate, transfer, and optimize analytical methods, SOPs, work instructions, and controlled lab documentation
- Train and mentor lab staff on analytical methods, instrumentation, SOPs, QA/QC, and troubleshooting
- Operate and maintain ICP and ICP-MS instrumentation, including calibration, performance verification, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair
- Lead investigations involving non-conformances, method deviations, root cause analysis, and CAPA
- Support audits, data integrity, ISO 17025, NELAC/TNI, and regulatory compliance
- Partner with leadership to improve workflow, capacity, continuous improvement initiatives, and overall lab performance
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Requirements
What We're Looking For- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or a related scientific field
- 5+ years of progressive analytical lab experience in a regulated environment, including technical leadership, training, and mentorship
- Advanced hands-on experience with ICP and ICP-MS instrumentation, including operation, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting
- Demonstrated experience with analytical method development, including validation/verification, transfer, optimization, and implementation
- Strong knowledge of QA/QC, data integrity, CAPA, audit support, EPA methods, and TNI/NELAP requirements
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and LIMS
Work Schedule- Full-time, on-site position
- Flexibility to work overtime, including evenings or weekends, as needed to support operational demands
What We Offer- Competitive hourly pay
- Annual reviews with consideration for performance-based increases
- Opportunities for career growth and advancement
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company match
- Employer-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance
- Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
- Paid parental leave
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
