Spectrometrist

Cherokee Federal • Columbia, MO

38d

About The Position

Join Cherokee Federal as a Mass Spectrometrist supporting the Ecosystems Mission Area! Utilize advanced liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) techniques to analyze environmental samples, develop cutting-edge methods, and contribute to critical environmental research. Work in a dynamic team environment addressing emerging challenges to protect environmental health and sustainability.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• 2+ years of hands-on experience maintaining and operating LC/MS/MS instrumentation, demonstrating proficiency in troubleshooting, method development, optimization, and data analysis.
• Strong foundation in analytical or environmental chemistry with an emphasis on liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS).
• Familiarity with the analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
• Practical experience in laboratory settings with expertise in method development and analytical techniques.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and data management skills.
• Proficiency in scientific software (e.g., MassLynx) for data analysis and visualization.
• Effective communication skills for technical reporting and collaboration in multidisciplinary teams.
• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.
• This position requires an active USAccess clearance or the ability to obtain a USAccess clearance to be considered.

Responsibilities

• Instrument Operation: Efficiently operate and maintain LC/MS/MS instrumentation, perform routine calibration, and troubleshoot operational issues.
• Method Development: Assist in the development and validation of analytical methods to detect and quantify chemical substances in various environmental matrices.
• Sample Analysis: Conduct thorough analyses of environmental samples to assess the presence and concentration of PFAS and other contaminants using advanced LC/MS/MS techniques.
• Data Generation: Collect and generate accurate data from sample analyses, ensuring integrity through meticulous attention to detail and reproducibility.
• Data Management: Organize and manage data effectively, using appropriate software  and databases to maintain clear records and facilitate easy retrieval for analysis and reporting (e.g., MassLynx, R, excel).
• Quality Control: Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality control protocols to ensure accuracy and reliability in analytical results.
• Visualization and Reporting: Assist in creating tables, graphs, figures, and text to summarize methodologies and findings, synthesizing complex data into accessible formats for diverse audiences.
• Collaboration and Communication: Actively participate in research meetings, provide insights from data analysis, and collaborate with team members to align project goals and timelines.
• Project Support: Support planned projects assessing the effects of contaminants (e.g., PFAS) in the environment by contributing to data analyses and ensuring data adheres to quality control and quality assurance plans.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned (cleaning and organizing lab space, sample preparation, bench chemistry, washing dishes, dissections, prepare documents and spreadsheets etc.).

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 401K
• other possible benefits as provided.  Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level