Senior Environmental Chemist (VOA/SVOA) in Conroe, Texas at SOUTHERN PETROLEUM LABS

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 are seeking an experienced Senior Chemist (VOA/SVOA) to join our environmental water testing laboratory in Conroe, TX.

This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned analytical chemist to serve as a technical leader within a high-performing environmental laboratory supporting critical regulatory and compliance initiatives. The role offers extensive involvement in advanced GC/MS analysis, method optimization, troubleshooting, quality systems, technical mentoring, and data review activities. Ideal for candidates passionate about analytical chemistry, technical problem-solving, and ensuring the delivery of accurate, defensible data that supports environmental protection and public health.

What You'll Do

• Perform and oversee VOA and SVOA analysis on environmental and quality control samples using applicable EPA methods and laboratory standards
• Serve as a technical resource for troubleshooting complex analytical methods, instrumentation issues, data anomalies, and operational challenges
• Operate, calibrate, maintain, optimize, and troubleshoot GC/MS, purge-and-trap, and associated laboratory instrumentation
• Review, validate, and approve analytical data, calculations, and laboratory documentation to ensure accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance
• Support method development, validation, optimization, transfer, and implementation activities
• Lead investigations involving non-conformances, quality concerns, method deviations, root cause analysis, and corrective actions
• Monitor instrument performance, calibrations, maintenance activities, and quality control data to ensure reliable analytical results
• Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and training to laboratory personnel on analytical methods, instrumentation, and quality practices
• Assist with SOP development, revisions, audits, proficiency testing, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Collaborate with laboratory leadership to improve workflow efficiency, data integrity, operational performance, and turnaround times
• Maintain compliance with laboratory safety requirements, quality systems, accreditation standards, and regulatory guidelines
• Perform additional duties as assigned

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or a related scientific discipline
• 5+ years of progressive analytical laboratory experience within a regulated environmental testing laboratory
• Advanced hands-on experience performing VOA and/or SVOA analysis utilizing GC/MS instrumentation
• Demonstrated expertise in method development, validation, optimization, troubleshooting, and analytical problem-solving
• Strong knowledge of EPA methodologies, laboratory quality systems, QA/QC requirements, and environmental regulatory standards
• Experience reviewing analytical data, investigations, and laboratory documentation for technical accuracy and compliance
• Demonstrated ability to provide technical leadership, mentorship, and training within a laboratory environment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

What We Offer

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

Work Schedule

• Full-time, onsite position
• Flexibility to work overtime, including evenings or weekends, as needed to support operational demands

Our Commitment to Diversity & 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 accommodation to applicants and employees with disabilities or for sincerely held religious beliefs, in accordance with applicable laws. If you need assistance or 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.