GC‑MS_MS Analyst

About the role

At ALS, you will join a global team harnessing scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future. This position supports routine sample analysis, instrument operation, quality control activities, and data review in a regulated laboratory environment. The successful candidate will develop technical expertise in environmental analysis, maintain productivity in a deadline-driven setting, and contribute to delivering accurate, defensible analytical results.

Responsibilities

Instrument Operation & Maintenance

• Operate GC-MS and GC-MS/MS systems following established methods, procedures, and work instructions.
• Perform routine instrument maintenance, including consumable replacement, source cleaning, leak checks, and performance verification.
• Assist with troubleshooting instrument and analytical issues with support from senior analysts, supervisors, and technical specialists.
• Maintain instrument logs, maintenance records, and analytical documentation.
• Follow laboratory schedules and sequencing priorities to support turnaround time commitments.

Analytical & Production Responsibilities

• Perform analyses using EPA 8270, EPA 625, and other GC-MS-based methods as assigned.
• Prepare and analyze calibration standards, quality control samples, and client samples in accordance with laboratory procedures.
• Process and review analytical data for completeness and compliance with quality requirements.
• Verify chromatographic integrations, compound identification, and reporting criteria.
• Maintain productivity and quality standards in a high-volume production laboratory environment.

Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance

• Follow established quality systems, SOPs, and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor quality control parameters, including blanks, surrogates, internal standards, laboratory control samples, and calibration requirements.
• Identify and communicate quality concerns to supervisors and technical staff.
• Assist with investigations, corrective actions, and documentation when quality issues occur.
• Support laboratory audits and accreditation activities as needed.

Technical Development

• Develop proficiency in GC-MS and GC-MS/MS operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Participate in training programs and competency assessments.
• Assist with implementing method updates and process improvements.
• Expand knowledge of environmental analytical methods and laboratory quality systems.
• Learn advanced troubleshooting and analytical techniques through hands-on experience and mentorship.

Collaboration & Communication

• Communicate analytical issues, instrument concerns, and production challenges to supervisors and team members.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Work collaboratively with laboratory staff, quality assurance personnel, and management.
• Contribute to a safe, quality-focused, and team-oriented work environment.

Requirements

• Basic understanding of chemistry, laboratory practices, and analytical instrumentation.
• Interest in learning GC-MS and GC-MS/MS instrumentation and environmental analytical methods.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to follow written procedures and maintain accurate documentation.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with computer systems and laboratory software.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or a related scientific discipline.
• One to three (1–3) years of laboratory experience preferred.
• Experience with analytical instrumentation or environmental laboratory testing is beneficial but not required.
• Recent graduates with relevant coursework and laboratory experience are encouraged to apply.

Preferred Experience and Knowledge

• Experience with GC-MS, GC-MS/MS, or similar analytical instrumentation.
• Familiarity with environmental testing laboratories.
• Experience with EPA analytical methods.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality systems and quality control practices.
• Experience working in a production or regulated laboratory environment.

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit and/or stand for extended periods during an 8-hour workday.
• Manual dexterity required for sample preparation and instrument maintenance activities.
• Ability to distinguish colors, read chromatograms, and interpret analytical reports.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members and management.