Senior Laboratory Chemist Location: Edison, NJ Status: Full Time Travel: Up to 10% Salary Range: $90,000 – $100,000 (depending on experience) Weston is seeking an experienced Senior Laboratory Chemist to support the EPA Response Engineering Analytical Contract (REAC). The REAC program provides critical support to the EPA during environmental emergencies and Superfund projects. Our work directly supports emergency response efforts through environmental testing and monitoring, with the overarching goal of protecting the environment and the health and safety of workers and the public. This role involves performing environmental gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analyses of organic compounds in a variety of sample matrices, including air, soil, water, and oil. Samples are often collected during time-critical emergency responses and at complex environmental remediation sites. Work is conducted in both fixed laboratory environments and mobile laboratory deployments, supporting investigations related to major environmental and emergency response events such as 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, California Wildfires, and other natural or industrial disasters. The Senior Laboratory Chemist will serve as a technical expert, collaborating closely with clients and project teams. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned chemist who enjoys managing projects from initiation through completion and thrives in dynamic, mission-driven environments. Key Responsibilities Perform GC/MS analyses in both mobile and fixed laboratory settings. Conduct analyses using EPA methods such as 8260, 8270, TO-15, and 8082A. Prepare standards, reagents, and environmental samples. Interpret mass spectral data using spectral libraries to identify compounds. Generate clear, accurate, and concise analytical reports. Perform routine instrument operation, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Develop and validate analytical methods using GC with detectors such as FID, PID, and MS. Prepare samples using techniques such as liquid-liquid extraction, Soxhlet/Soxtherm extraction, and solid-phase extraction. Safely manage and handle hazardous materials in a laboratory setting.
Requirements
Required Qualifications Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Chemistry or a closely related scientific discipline, with at least 30 credit hours in chemistry. Minimum of 10 years of analytical chemistry experience, including at least 5 years of hands-on instrumentation experience. Experience with SW-846 methods for organic analysis in soil, water, and oil. Strong understanding of organic chemistry fundamentals, chromatography, and mass spectrometry theory. Experience working with a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Knowledge of hazardous waste characterization, storage, and labeling requirements. Preferred Qualifications Experience with Toxic Organic (TO) air methods. Knowledge of vapor intrusion sampling techniques, including passivated (Summa) canisters and Tedlar bags. Familiarity with the Incident Command System (ICS) framework (ICS 100, 200, 700, 800); certification is a plus. 40-hour HAZWOPER certification. Strong knowledge of EPA analytical methods and environmental regulations. Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel). Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Willingness to travel for field assignments, including mobile laboratory deployments