Senior Environmental Analytical Chemist

University of Minnesota-Duluth

Duluth, MN

ID: 7293853
Posted: Recently posted
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Job Description

Job Duties

Oversee and coordinate analytical data collection (25% time).

Develop and adapt laboratory-specific analytical methods for quantitative analysis and nontarget analysis of trace organic contaminants in environmental and laboratory-generated samples, in accordance with requirements of specific research projects.
Translate analytical methods into Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Process and analyze samples independently or train team members and delegate tasks as necessary.
Recommend and implement improvements to workflow.
Manage and operate advanced analytical instrumentation, including liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), liquid chromatography quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS), and gas chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (GC-QQQMS) systems.
Data review, management, and analysis (25% time).

Oversee review of analytical data to ensure compliance with project-specific QA/QC criteria.
Manage data storage and organization across projects.
Prepare and implement data management plans in accordance with grant-specific requirements. Process data and prepare figures using statistical software (e.g., R) and interpret results in collaboration with PI and other team members.
Assist with data formatting and preparation for submission to databases (e.g., the US EPA Great Lakes Environmental Database, GLENDA).
Dissemination and reporting (20% time).

Contribute to preparation of peer-reviewed publications as lead or co-author.
Present research results at conferences and seminars.
Prepare technical reports and grant reports.
Engineering research (20% time).

Contribute to experimental and modeling studies as needed to support projects related to treatment and remediation of organic contaminants.
Experimental approaches include batch and column experiments to evaluate contaminant sorption and degradation processes.
Modeling approaches include application of numerical and software approaches to evaluate contaminant transport processes.
Administrative duties (10% time).

Assist PI with preparation of research proposals involving analysis of trace organic contaminants, including preparation of budgets, literature reviews, and work plans.
Monitor analytical expenditures to ensure alignment with project budgets.
Development of analytical cost center rates and budgets.
Assist team members with purchasing and maintaining laboratory inventories and instrument service records.
Duties less than 10% time:

This position may involve occasional fieldwork as necessary for specific projects.
It will also involve occasional travel to present research results at meetings and conferences.
Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Required Qualifications

Advanced degree in science and/or engineering field with a strong focus in Chemistry, plus one year of relevant work experience.
Experience working with advanced liquid chromatography mass spectrometry techniques (e.g., LC-MS/MS).
Experience with quantitative analysis of trace organic contaminants in environmental samples.
Experience training, managing, and/or mentoring students, interns, and/or laboratory support staff.
Effective verbal and written communication skills in English.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; or equivalent software.
Valid US driver’s license with clean driving record.
Preferred Qualifications

PhD in Environmental Engineering, Chemistry or related science and engineering field and a record of oral presentations and peer-reviewed publications
Three or more years of experience working with advanced liquid chromatography mass spectrometry techniques (e.g., LC-MS/MS).
Experience with analytical methods and QA/QC protocols for a variety of organic contaminants (e.g., including PFAS, pesticides, pharmaceuticals and personal care products, and legacy organic contaminants) in a variety of environmental matrices (e.g., water, soils, sediments, and biological tissues).
Excellent technical writing skills, as evidenced through at least one peer-reviewed publication or technical report as lead author.
Experience with a variety of advanced mass spectrometry techniques relevant to environmental chemistry, including liquid chromatography high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) and nontarget analysis, and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS).
One or more years of experience working in an industry, government, or contract analytical laboratory.
Knowledge of treatment and remediation concepts including sorption and biodegradation, as evidenced through peer-reviewed publications and/or an educational background in engineering.
Experience working with mass spectrometry instrumentation (such as Sciex and Agilent) and/or software (such as SciexOS, MassHunter, ChemStation).
Proficiency with statistical analysis and computing software (e.g., R, Matlab)
Experience with grant writing, project management, and budget management.
**Applicants who do not meet all the preferred qualifications are still encouraged to apply.

Pay and Benefits
Pay Range: $61,510.82 - $75,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75%-100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.



The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
University HSA contributions
Disability and employer-paid life insurance
Employee wellbeing program
Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
Financial counseling services
Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost