LC MS Analyst

Tetra Tech Europe; Bedford; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Tetra Tech Europe is seeking a permanent LC–MS Analyst to join our Bedford analytical laboratory. The role covers LC–MS/MS from sample extraction through data processing and reporting, supporting regulatory decisions with ultra‑trace analyses.

Based in Bedford, core hours Monday–Friday 14:00–22:00 with on‑site work; opportunities to contribute to method development and expansion of laboratory capabilities.

Qualifications

• This role requires a BSc in Chemistry or equivalent industrial experience in an accredited environmental analytical laboratory.
• Strong time management and attention to detail are essential.
• Desirable: familiarity with Agilent ChemStation/MassHunter and PFAS/ultra-trace analyses.

Responsibilities

• Operate LC–MS/MS systems (ESI/APCI) and execute analyses from extraction to reporting.
• Perform method development and troubleshooting to improve throughput and detection limits.
• Interpret chromatographic and mass spectral data and provide clear client-facing reports.
• Collaborate with extraction staff and project teams to meet deadlines.

Skills

LC–MS proficiency

Analytical method execution

Data interpretation

Problem solving

Operational collaboration

Education

BSc in Chemistry

Tools

Agilent ChemStation

MassHunter

Job description

Join Tetra Tech as an LC–MS Analyst: Advance environmental analysis

Purpose And Scope Of The Role

This permanent, full‑time role sits within Tetra Tech’s Bedford analytical laboratory, a UKAS‑accredited facility of over 100 scientists and support staff delivering large‑scale monitoring programmes and client projects across water, utilities, agrochemicals and defence. You will work Monday to Friday, 14:00–22:00, operating LC–MS/MS methods from sample extraction through data processing and reporting. Typical projects range from routine compliance testing to multi‑site monitoring campaigns and method development for emerging contaminants, with laboratory instrumentation and workflows designed to measure ultra‑trace concentrations and support regulatory decisions.

Your Impact In This Position

In the short term you will deliver high‑quality LC analyses and maintain instrument uptime. Over the medium term you will contribute to method optimisation and troubleshooting, improving throughput and detection limits. In the longer term you can lead method development for novel contaminants, progress to senior analyst or technical lead roles, and influence client programmes and laboratory capability expansion.

Core Capabilities

• Technical LC–MS proficiency: Proven operation of single and triple quadrupole LC–MS systems (ESI/APCI), routine maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Analytical method execution: Competence in sample preparation (LLE, SPE, QuEChERS), trace organic workflows and strict adherence to SOPs and QC protocols.
• Data interpretation and reporting: Accurate processing of chromatographic/mass spectral data, QC review and clear, client‑facing reporting.
• Problem solving and development: Experience developing or optimising methods for emerging/priority pollutants and responding to changing regulatory needs.
• Operational collaboration: Ability to coordinate with extraction staff, technicians and project teams to meet throughput and deliverable deadlines.

Skills, Qualifications And Experience

BSc (2:1) in Chemistry or related subject, or equivalent industrial experience; experience in an accredited environmental analytical laboratory; strong time management and attention to detail. Desirable: familiarity with Agilent ChemStation/MassHunter, demonstrated experience with PFAS and ultra‑trace analyses, further analytical training or certification.

Work patterns & location

Based at Bedford laboratory. Core hours Monday–Friday 14:00–22:00 with expectation of on‑site working.

In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements. This could include adaptations to work schedules, training approaches, or the physical workspace. Please inform us if you need any accommodations during the recruitment process or in your day‑to‑day role.