Senior Research Associate, Analytical

We are seeking a motivated Senior Research Associate to join our analytical team supporting NCASI’s environmental and industrial research programs. The ideal candidate possesses demonstrated experience in analytical instrumentation troubleshooting, excels in hands-on sample preparation, analytical method implementation and validation, and consistently upholds rigorous QA/QC standards. A curious, continuous-learning mindset and passion for laboratory problem-solving are essential to succeed in this role.

Key Words: Analytical Research Associate, Analytical Research Technician, , Chromatography analysis, gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, ion chromatography, extensive hands-on experience, analytical instrumentation troubleshooting and maintenance, QA/QC procedures, data recording, data analysis, technical support.

Essential Functions:

1. Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot gas and ion chromatographs (GC, IC) and related analytical instruments.
2. Lead sample preparation workflows, including extraction, digestion, dilution, and filtration for trace-level analysis of complex environmental matrices.
3. Work with Senior Chemists on method development, optimization, and validation, ensuring analytical precision and data reproducibility.
4. Investigate and resolve instrument performance issues like baseline drift, noise, leaks, retention shifts, or detector instability to maintain optimal uptime.
5. Maintain rigorous QA/QC documentation: calibration records, blanks, surrogates, control checks, and data verification logs.
6. Interpret, summarize, and present analytical data clearly and concisely to project leaders and research partners.
7. Contribute to continuous improvement of lab efficiency, safety, and analytical reliability. Must be able to get to and work from the Newberry Office & Laboratories and field locations as required.

Note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this role.

Required Education and Experience:

1. Bachelor’s in chemistry, Environmental Science, or related field and 4 or more years of relevant experience; OR a Master’s in chemistry, Environmental Science, or related field and at least one year of relevant experience. Several years of hands-on experience with chromatographic systems (GC, IC) are strongly preferred.
2. Strong skills in troubleshooting instruments, method validation, and sample preparation.
3. Working knowledge of QA/QC principles, laboratory safety, and trace-level environmental testing.

A growth-oriented attitude eager to learn, adapt, and expand expertise with new methods and instruments.

If you are passionate about analytical chemistry, enjoy solving complex technical problems, and want to keep learning every day, join our team and make an impact on advancing environmental science and sustainable industry practices.

Physical Demands:

This position requires the ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time at a laboratory. May require occasional lifting of items up to 50 lbs. May require moving gas tanks and solvent bottles. Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds of glassware/supplies through the laboratory.

Work Authorization / Insurance Requirements:

1. Must be eligible to work in the United States.
2. Must have a driving record that can be insured at standard rates.

Benefits Effective Immediately:

• Health Care Benefit Package (Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA w/ employer contribution)
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Vacation/Sick/Holiday leave.
• Dependent Care FSA
• Life, Supplemental Life, Disability, and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
• Identity Theft Protection
• Supplemental Accident and Critical Insurance Available