Job Summary

The PFAS Research Center (PRC) at the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene (WSLH) is seeking an experienced Chemist to join our analytical team. The PRC primarily functions under the National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP), and a key function of this role is to develop sample collection and analytical methods relevant to PFAS in the atmosphere. Participation in continuous learning through professional development activities is expected.

The position will work with a team of four chemists and share in the responsibilities of collecting, tracking, processing, and analyzing various environmental samples (especially precipitation, sediment, and air samples) for per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This team works to develop new methods and provide important data to research scientists nationally and internationally. The successful candidate is expected to take a leading role in method development and improvement. Additionally, this position will serve to foster a collaborative and rigorous scientific environment by playing an active role in mentoring fellow chemists, interns, and students who work in the PRC.

This position is senior level and the successful candidate will serve as a subject matter expert in the PRC. They will work with a team of chemists to perform analysis by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS or QTOF-MS) and Combustion Ion Chromatography (CIC), and expected to demonstrate proficiency in relevant lab tracking and analytical software platforms. The successful candidate will critically assess data quality and integrity, and effectively communicate findings and results at weekly group meetings and scientific conferences. Personal initiative, independence, strong communication skills, and collaboration are essential in this role. Projects and analytical goals may change with time, so clear and detailed record-keeping is a crucial skill.

Duties for this position are performed onsite at the WSLH Henry Mall location.

Key Job Responsibilities

• Prepares, reviews, verifies, and reports test result data - 10%
• Prepares technical reports, makes scientific recommendations based on findings, and presents materials to stake holders groups through various mediums - 5%
• Supports and/or trains new employees, students, and other professional colleagues - 5%
• Provides training and other educational and outreach activities for various individuals and groups - 5%
• Performs non-routine tests, identifies and confirms the existence of chemical substances, and serves as a consultant as it relates to testing outcomes - 40%
• Directs, coordinates, and oversees the development, evaluation, and implementation of new methodologies including techniques for chemical research experiments - 15%
• Coordinates, executes, and documents demonstrations and trainings for targeted populations related to chemical theory, sample preparation, instrument operation, maintenance, and procedures and data analysis - 10%
• Serves as a leading scientific subject matter expert and unit liaison for internal and external stakeholders, disseminates information, and answers questions from constituents as needed - 10%

Required Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience with mass spectrometry, including at least 1 year of experience with LC-MS/MS
• Knowledge of PFAS chemistry and analysis, with preference to candidates with prior relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least 9 years of experience in an analytical laboratory

Education

Bachelor's Degree with a major in Chemistry or related field (e.g. Environmental or Atmospheric Science, Biology, etc).