Chemist - Environmental Scientist

At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world’s most complex challenges. Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world. For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development. Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

About the role

This is a full-time, entry-level position specializing in organic and/or inorganic analytical chemistry theory and methods for CERCLA/RCRA type environmental investigations. The role is in-office, and local candidates will be given priority. US citizenship is required due to the clients we serve.

Responsibilities

• Act as data validation chemist, preparing validation reports, reviewing analytical laboratory data packages, and applying data qualifications in an analytical database.
• Assist the validation manager and project managers on all aspects of environmental chemistry, including data validation, analytical database tracking and support, data interpretation, laboratory and field analytical methods evaluation and selection, preparation of quality assurance project plans (data quality objectives), and data quality assessment.
• Perform data validation/data evaluation per EPA National Functional Guidelines, Department of Defense (DoD) modules, and other EPA regional, state, and client-specific data validation protocols.
• Prepare quality assurance project plans and data quality assessment reports, and assist in identifying project data quality objectives.
• Assist the Data Validation Group Manager in tracking and managing data validation deliverables.
• Input analytical and field data and qualifiers, format database files, and print out data summary files.
• Assist with the organization of incoming data and electronic files.
• Organize, manage, and manipulate project-specific databases for statistical analysis, risk and nature/extent of contamination evaluations, and other assessments.
• Assist in the preparation and QA of chemicals of potential concern selection tables under the direction of risk assessment personnel.
• Assist in updating and maintaining toxicity criteria and ARARs databases.
• Assist in the preparation/QA of nature and extent of contamination tables/text and risk assessment spreadsheet deliverables/text under the direction of risk assessment and other technical personnel.
• Work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating attention to detail.
• Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards.
• Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline, knowledge, and awareness.
• Work safely at all times and report health and safety incidents and concerns.
• Perform additional duties as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (BA or BS) from a four-year college or university in Chemistry or a related science.
• One year of experience in an analytical laboratory (commercial or research) performing inorganic/organic analyses is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with computer systems and databases (e.g., Windows applications such as Word, Excel, Access).
• Knowledge of EPA Functional Guidelines for data validation is a plus.
• Knowledge of EPA guidelines for preparation of quality assurance project plans, identification of project data quality objectives, and data quality assessment is a plus.
• Basic comprehension of EPA RI/FS and RFI/CMS processes is a plus.
• U.S. citizenship is required due to the nature of the projects.

Skills

• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
• Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees.
• Ability to translate chemistry principles to convey understanding to technical and non-technical personnel.
• Mathematical skills to calculate stoichiometry, solubilities, equilibrium constants, standard deviations, electrode potentials, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume.
• Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra, geometry, and chemistry.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and within tight schedules.
• Ability to coordinate and prioritize work effectively.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Consistent with an office environment, including moving paper, reports, and occasionally lifting boxes and items under 25 pounds.

Work Environment

The work environment is consistent with an office setting. Occasional travel may be required, with destinations also being office environments.

Benefits

• Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
• Merit-based financial rewards.
• Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
• Collaborative team atmosphere that values contributions from all employees.
• Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.