Entry-Level Laboratory Analyst, Air Toxics - GCMS (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Sterling Labs; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Sterling Labs in Des Plaines, IL is seeking a GCMS Analyst to perform a wide range of analytical tasks in a safety-conscious environment. The role supports production and quality goals, adhering to SOPs and accurate data reporting. You will handle sample workloads, manage LIMS entries, calibrate and maintain GCMS instruments, and prepare standards.

A B.S./B.A. in Chemistry and strong communication are required to contribute to a collaborative team focused on environmental monitoring.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated, goal-oriented, and able to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Manage sample workload to meet reporting deadlines.
• Upload and review results in Sterling Labs’ Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Prepare and assemble containers and canisters for client orders.
• Maintain inventory of canisters and associated carts.
• Quantify and qualify results according to analytical methods and SOPs.
• Report accurate and timely data in Element.
• Calibrate instruments accurately per SOPs.
• Perform daily and ongoing instrument maintenance.
• Assist the manager in identifying sources of problems (Corrective Action Reports) and implementing corrective actions.
• Assist other analysts and extractors in lab areas as workflow demands, under manager direction.
• Maintain good housekeeping habits and assist with sample disposal.
• Communicate workload status and data quality issues to the manager.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including assistance with other analyses and extractions.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Self-motivated

Education

B.S./B.A. in Chemistry

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

About Us

Sterling Labs (Environmental Monitoring & Technologies, LLC) is a DoD, NELAP, ANAB, and AIHA-accredited environmental laboratory providing high-integrity analytical data through state-of-the-art technology and validated testing methodologies. For more than 40 years, our work has supported initiatives that protect human health and the environment.

Description

Sterling Labs (Environmental Monitoring & Technologies, LLC) is a DoD, NELAP, ANAB, and AIHA-accredited environmental laboratory providing high-integrity analytical data through state-of-the-art technology and validated testing methodologies. For more than 40 years, our work has supported initiatives that protect human health and the environment.

Our success is built on client partnerships and scientific excellence. We collaborate with environmental consultants, engineering firms, and government agencies to deliver reliable, timely analytical results that support regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship. From wastewater testing in the greater Chicago area to nationwide projects with Department of Defense partners, our commitment to quality and innovation continues to drive our growth.

When You Join Sterling Labs, You Become Part Of a Team Of Scientists, Professionals, And Technical Specialists Who Share One Purpose

WE PRESERVE THE PLANET TO PROTECT THE FUTURE

This purpose shapes our culture, drives our decisions, and guides how we serve our clients and support one another. We believe that meaningful progress comes from integrity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improvement—principles that are reflected in our core values.

Our Core Values

• Integrity in Everything We Do -We act with honesty, transparency, and accountability.
• Customer Focused - We prioritize our clients’ needs and value their feedback.
• We are never satisfied - We seek better ways to serve our clients and support our employees through innovation and growth.

At Sterling Labs, we know our employees are the foundation of our success. We strive to provide a supportive, inclusive, and growth-oriented workplace where every individual is encouraged to learn, innovate, and advance.

Employee Benefits

• Healthcare Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, and short- and long-term disability coverage
• Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)

Equal Employment Opportunity

Sterling Labs is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, sex, age, disability, marital or family status, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Recruitment Notice

Sterling Labs does not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party agencies. Please do not forward resumes to company email addresses or employees. Sterling Labs is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited submissions.

Position Overview

The Air Toxics GCMS Analyst performs a wide variety of tasks to achieve production and quality goals. The Air Toxics GCMS Analyst adheres to Sterling Labs’ standard operating procedures (SOPs) in a culture of safety, honesty, and ethical behavior. Duties are performed under the direction of the supervisor to meet client service requests. The role requires motivation to complete projects successfully and meet client expectations.

Duties of the Position

Primary Analytical Tasks

• TO15

Secondary (Backup) Analytical Tasks

• 8260/624 SIM

Key Responsibilities

• Manage sample workload to meet reporting deadlines.
• Upload and review results in Sterling Labs’ Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Prepare and assemble containers and canisters for client orders.
• Maintain inventory of canisters & associated carts.
• Quantify and qualify results according to analytical methods and SOPs.
• Report accurate and timely data in Element.
• Produce Level IV PDF data at the time of analytical reporting.
• Calibrate instruments accurately per SOPs.
• Build sequence and batch data to maximize instrument run efficiency.
• Perform daily and ongoing instrument maintenance (e.g., inlet maintenance, column changes, source cleaning).
• Prepare standards and reagents for analysis.
• Assess sample quality prior to analysis to protect instruments and meet client objectives.
• Assist the manager in identifying sources of problems (Corrective Action Reports) and implementing corrective actions.
• Assist other analysts and extractors in lab areas as workflow demands, under manager direction.
• Maintain good housekeeping habits and assist with sample disposal.
• Communicate workload status and data quality issues to the manager.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including assistance with other analyses and extractions.

Instruments Used

• Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS)
• Laboratory Scales
• Pipettes
• Syringes
• PCs

Qualifications

• B.S. or B.A. degree in Chemistry preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated, goal-driven, and outcome-oriented.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of standing, sitting, or walking while performing laboratory analyses and data entry.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle glassware, syringes, pipettes, and analytical instruments.
• Must be able to lift, carry, and move gas canisters, sample containers, and lab equipment weighing up to 30 pounds using proper lifting techniques.
• Must be able to visually inspect samples, instrument readings, and chromatograms with precision; specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Occasional bending, stooping, or reaching while setting up instruments, retrieving supplies, or organizing lab materials.
• Must be able to work safely around compressed gases, solvents, and other laboratory chemicals while following all PPE and safety protocols.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with coworkers, supervisors, and other departments regarding workload and analytical findings.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.