Analytical Chemist (Inorganics) - Environmental Lab at SOUTHERN PETROLEUM LABS – Reading, Pennsylvania

At SPL, the work you do matters. Our teams provide trusted energy and environmental testing and measurement solutions that protect communities, support critical infrastructure, and safeguard the environment. With a nationwide footprint and opportunities for growth across multiple locations and disciplines, SPL is a place where you can build a career while making a real-world impact.

We’re seeking a skilled Analytical Chemist to perform inorganics testing in our environmental laboratory in Reading, PA.

In this role, you’ll perform analytical testing on water, wastewater, and soil samples, using ion chromatography, nutrient analysis systems, and wet chemistry techniques. This is a hands-on laboratory position in a fast-paced, high-throughput environment where accuracy, compliance, and turnaround time are critical.

What You’ll Do

• Perform sample preparation and analysis following EPA methods, SOPs, and QA/QC protocols
• Conduct testing for anions, nutrients, ammonia, alkalinity, hardness, and total nitrogen (N/N)
• Operate and maintain Ion Chromatography (IC), Segmented Flow Analysis (SFA), and wet chemistry systems
• Perform titrations, digestions, and other wet chemistry techniques
• Complete instrument calibration, verification, and routine maintenance
• Review results for accuracy, trends, and out-of-spec conditions
• Document and validate results in LIMS, ensuring data integrity and traceability
• Maintain chain-of-custody and sample documentation
• Support QA/QC, GLP, and ISO/IEC 17025 requirements
• Troubleshoot instrumentation and support process improvements
• Follow all safety procedures and chemical handling protocols
• Perform other duties as assigned

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or related scientific field
• 2+ years of hands-on analytical laboratory experience in a regulated environment
• Demonstrated experience with Ion Chromatography (IC) and/or Segmented Flow Analysis (SFA) or similar instrumentation
• Proven experience with wet chemistry techniques, including titrations and digestions, such as Total Nitrogen (N/N)
• Working knowledge of EPA Methods 300.0/300.1 and similar methods
• Ability to interpret QC data and apply corrective actions
• Proficiency with LIMS and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel)

What You'll Need To Succeed

• Strong attention to detail with a focus on data integrity and accuracy
• Ability to manage high sample volumes and shifting priorities while meeting turnaround times
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills
• Organized, process-driven approach with adherence to SOPs and quality standards
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication and accountability
• Commitment to safety and compliance

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match
• Employer-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance
• Generous paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development support

Schedule & Work Environment

• Full-time, on-site position following a standard Monday - Friday schedule
• Flexibility to work extended hours, evenings, or weekends as needed based on workload or operational demands
• Position involves routine handling of environmental samples (including wastewater and soil) and laboratory chemicals; appropriate PPE is provided and required

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

At SPL, we believe that a diverse team is a strong team. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive. We make all employment decisions based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities or for sincerely held religious beliefs, in accordance with applicable laws. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process, please let us know.

Visa Sponsorship

At this time, SPL is unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position. We sincerely appreciate your interest and understanding, and we encourage you to explore other opportunities with us that may be a fit in the future.