Senior Laboratory Analyst (Inorganics) 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 Senior Laboratory Analyst to support inorganics testing in our environmental laboratory in Reading, PA.

In this role, you will perform analytical testing and data evaluation on environmental samples, including water, wastewater, and soil, using EPA methods and QA/QC protocols. You will work with ion chromatography, nutrient analysis systems, and wet chemistry techniques, while also serving as a technical resource and workflow lead within the laboratory.

What You’ll Do

• Perform sample preparation, analysis, and QC activities in accordance with EPA methods, SOPs, and QA/QC protocols
• Conduct testing for inorganic analytes such as anions, nutrients, ammonia, alkalinity, hardness, and total nitrogen (N/N)
• Operate, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot Ion Chromatography (IC), Segmented Flow Analysis (SFA), and wet chemistry systems
• Perform titrations, digestions, and other wet chemistry techniques
• Review, interpret, and validate analytical data 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
• Serve as a technical lead and escalation point for complex testing, instrumentation issues, and method questions
• Provide day-to-day guidance, training, and workflow coordination to laboratory staff, ensuring effective prioritization and timely turnaround of work
• Assist with SOP updates, method improvements, and process optimization initiatives
• Support audits, investigations, and corrective action processes
• Maintain compliance with QA/QC, GLP, ISO 17025, and safety requirements
• Perform other duties as assigned

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or related scientific field
• 3+ 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
• Working knowledge of EPA Methods 300.0/300.1 and similar methods
• Ability to interpret QC data and apply corrective actions
• Prior experience providing technical guidance, mentoring, or workflow support to team members
• 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, troubleshooting, and decision-making skills
• Organized, process-driven approach with adherence to SOPs and quality standards
• Ability to lead by example and support team performance
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication skills and accountability
• Commitment to safety, compliance, and continuous improvement

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation
• 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

Schedule & Work Environment

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

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.