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Sparks (775) 355-0202 | Elko (775) 777-9933 | Las Vegas (702) 475-8899
Sparks (775) 355-0202
Elko (775) 777-9933
Las Vegas (702) 475-8899
Western Environmental
Testing Laboratory
Wet Chemistry Scientist I

POSITION SUMMARY: This is an Entry to Mid- level position performing a variety of laboratory procedures using established methods and techniques under general guidance. This position is part of a flexible and dynamic team that works together to meet challenging demands that are essential to our clients’ operations. Previous work or education in chemistry, environmental science, microbiology, or a related field is preferred but we will happily train an enthusiastic and promising candidate.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & BASIC DUTIES:

  • Wet Chemistry Scientists are responsible for testing and/or preparation activities and other tasks as necessary in a laboratory environment.
  • Must be able to perform a variety of laboratory procedures using established methods and techniques under general guidance.
  • Primary duties include the analysis of water and soil samples with microbiological and bench/wet chemistry tests and the proper maintenance and operation of the laboratory equipment.
  • Secondary duties include assisting other team members in inorganic procedures.
  • Data logbooks must be maintained and data is also entered into our LIMS.
  • Wet Chemistry Scientists clean, disinfect and maintain laboratory workspace and equipment.
  • Prepare samples for analysis using distillation and digestion techniques. May include soil prep using sample crushers.
  • Analyzing samples for contaminants using various laboratory equipment (analytical balances, pipettes, filtration, pH meter, FIA, UV-VIS Spectrophotometer, etc.)
  • Setting and reading samples for microbiology tests (BOD, various coliforms, SRB and IRB, etc.)
  • Ensuring QC passes and data is properly recorded and entered into the computer LIMS
  • Maintaining and operating laboratory equipment
  • Training on bench methods and assisting other team-members

WET CHEMISTRY METHOD/TEST RESPONSIBILITIES (Example):

  • Acidity; auto-titrator
  • Alkalinity; auto-titrator
  • MBAS
  • FDS
  • Settleable Solids
  • TDS

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITY:

Knowledge of commonly used lab concepts, practices and procedures and relies on instructions, pre-established guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) to perform functions of the job.

  • Ability to perform and complete assigned task by due date
  • Ability to complete assigned duties as described by SOP
  • Passes internal quizzes
  • Able to achieve acceptable recovery in quarterly blind QC (PE) samples
  • Ability to keep a clean and orderly workspace
  • Ability to follow Quality Assurance Plan
  • Ability to follow Safety Program
  • Positive staff feedback, collaborative, respectful
  • MS Office Suite

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, environmental science or related field (preferred)
  • 0-1 years of experience or non-degreed with 1-3 years of experience.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS:

Physical Demands:The essential functions of the position may require frequent sitting, finger dexterity in both hands, near/far visual acuity, depth perception, field of vision accommodation and color vision; occasional bending, lifting/carrying of 10lbs or less, light grasping with non-dominant hand, firm/strong grasping with both hands; requires seldom reaching overhead, crouching, kneeling, climbing, pushing/pulling, and lifting/carrying up to 25 lbs. *Examples Only.

Mental Demands: The essential functions of the position require the ability to read and write simple material, have simple math skills, and the ability to perform simple and complex tasks; complete forms, perform clerical tasks, compile, information, work with precision, follow instructions, meet time requirements, memorization and problem-solving skills, and use of independent judgment.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Overtime and occasional weekend or holiday work may be required. The ideal candidate will have great attention to detail and will be friendly, flexible, team-oriented, and able to multi-task. Final candidate must pass a pre-hire background check and drug testing. The Wet Chemistry Scientist I is responsible for recording observations and measurements and reporting results.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.00 – $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 10 hour shift
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday

Supplemental pay types:

  • Bonus pay

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Sparks, NV 89431: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:

  • Laboratory experience: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person

Please note, this is an evergreen posting. You may not hear back right away as we may not have an immediate opening. We review submissions periodically and will reach out if your skills align with an upcoming opportunity.