Chemist I

Chemist I Responsibilities

• Support waste characterization and profile development through sampling coordination and analytical review to support proper hazardous waste determinations consistent with 40 CFR 261.
• Cook up field/lab testing (analysis) under an approved QA/QC (approved by the Contractor QAM and accepted by the NSWC Crane EP QAM, applicable IEPD, and applicable Environmental Media Manager) prior to any sampling or analysis activities.
• Prepare sampling documentation packages (sample plans, bottle orders, preservation requirements, chain-of-custody forms) and coordinate sample shipment/drop-off and hold-time tracking with laboratories.
• Review and organize laboratory data packages for completeness and quality (e.g., method references, QA/QC summaries, detection limits, qualifiers, and nonconformance documentation) and elevate data quality concerns to senior staff.
• Support characterization analyses using appropriate methods (as applicable), including EPA SW-846, hazardous waste characteristic testing, TCLP, and PCB analyses; compile results for reporting and waste profile documentation.
• Support NPDES/water program sampling events by coordinating required lab analyses, tracking results, and organizing data for submittal (including support for NetDMR data entry under direction/review of the program lead).
• Support PCB inspections/sampling programs by coordinating mixed-media and oil sample analyses; compile analytical results and provide result packages to the designated Government program manager as directed.
• Support lead sampling programs (including paint and mixed media) by coordinating lab analysis and organizing results for renovation/demolition decision support.
• Support radon sampling programs by tracking device deployment/retrieval logs, coordinating vendor/lab processing, and organizing results and follow-up documentation.
• Draft technical inputs and supporting attachments for reports, permit inputs, and data calls, including clear summaries of analytical methods, results, and key findings.
• Maintain organized electronic and hardcopy program records (lab reports, chain-of-custody, calibration logs where applicable, data summaries, and correspondence) to support audits and inspections.
• Follow site safety requirements and applicable training standards; use required PPE and safe handling practices when working around chemicals, waste containers, or industrial environments.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Environmental Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• 0–3 years of relevant experience supporting environmental sampling programs, laboratory analysis, data validation/QA review, or environmental compliance support (internship experience counts).
• Familiarity with environmental analytical concepts, including QA/QC, detection limits, data qualifiers, and chain-of-custody practices.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to produce accurate, well-organized data summaries and documentation.
• Proficiency with standard office tools (spreadsheets, word processing, and PDF review tools).
• Familiarity with RCRA waste characterization and 40 CFR 261 determinations.
• Working knowledge of EPA SW-846 methods and common environmental analyses (e.g., metals, VOC/SVOC, TCLP, PCB).
• Experience supporting water/wastewater monitoring and electronic reporting systems (e.g., NetDMR).
• HAZWOPER (or ability to obtain, if required by the site).