Entry-Level Metals Analyst

Description

THIS POSITION IS Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

WHY US?

Sterling Labs invests in the success of our team. We are seeking highly motivated individuals who want to invest in their skill sets and careers, be rewarded for their initiative, and thrive in a collaborative environment. Our analytical data has a tremendous impact on protecting human health and the environment. We value teamwork, continuous improvement, growth, and empowered ethical decision-making.

We Preserve the Planet to Protect the Future.

Our Core Values

• We strive for Integrity in Everything We Do. We're honest and transparent in our actions and decisions.
• We are Customer-Focused. We prioritize our customers' needs and value their feedback.
• We are Never Satisfied and are dedicated to continuous improvement. We always seek ways to improve and adapt to changing needs.
  
  

Sterling Labs' growth has been directly tied to our clients’ needs for 36 years. We are a growth-oriented organization that prioritizes our clients. We partner with manufacturers, engineering firms, and government agencies to provide environmental laboratory data that helps protect the environment. From wastewater sampling and analysis in greater Chicago and Milwaukee to nationwide service with Department of Defense partners, our commitment to our clients drives our growth.

Position Overview

The Metals Analyst performs metals analysis of metals in soils, solids, and waters using ICP-OES, ICP-MS, CVAA/CVAFS instrumentation to support production and quality goals. Key responsibilities include planning daily workflows, ensuring proper analytical techniques, and communicating issues or resource needs to the supervisor or laboratory management. The Metals Analyst works under the direction of the Inorganics Manager.

Specific Duties

• ICP-OES analysis
• ICP-MS analysis
• Hg (Mercury) analysis
• Other tests as determined by the Inorganics Manager
  
  

Responsibilities

• Perform metals analyses according to standard operating procedures to meet client deadlines and quality objectives.
• Track all metals standards, ensure they are current, and order replacements and supplies as needed.
• Neutralize and properly dispose of instrument waste from metals analyses per SOP.
• Perform Hg analyses per SOP using the designated instrument (e.g., CVAA/CVAFS or direct mercury analyzer), including method setup, calibration, and routine QC checks.
• Verify that required QC elements (blanks, calibration verification, control samples) are included; coordinate with the prep team as needed.
• Prepare and properly label reagents and standards for instrument use as allowed by SOP.
• Maintain instruments' condition and consumables, document maintenance and issues.
• Escalate data quality concerns or instrument problems to the supervisor or management promptly.
• Assist your supervisor in identifying root causes (Corrective Action Reports) and implementing corrective actions.
• Calibrate pipettes daily.
• Review, validate, and report results in Element 7.
• Other duties as assigned.
  
  

Benefits & Compansation

Understanding that employee well-being is essential to performance, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees, including:

• Healthcare Coverage – Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Financial Protection – 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Work-Life Balance – Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
  
  

Compensation

This is an entry-level role, compensated at $19.00 per hour, paid biweekly, with opportunities for overtime.

Requirements

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods.
• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds using safe lifting techniques.
• Ability to wear all required PPE.
  
  

Personal and Professional Credentials

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related science.
• Two years’ experience with metal analysis is preferred.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-directed; goal- and outcome-driven.
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills.