Entry-Level Laboratory Analyst, IC (Tue-Sat 10 AM - 6:30 PM)

Sterling Labs; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare benefits

401(k) retirement plan

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Sterling Labs is seeking an IC Analyst to perform precise sample preparation and instrument maintenance for Ion Chromatography systems. You'll manage quantitative analysis through standalone and networked data systems, handling solids, water, and waste samples with careful documentation.

Join a DoD- and industry-accredited environmental laboratory in the greater Chicago area, contributing to quality-driven testing, regulatory compliance, and environmental stewardship.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry or analytical chemistry; relevant bioscience background acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples for analysis and standards.
• Build sequence and batch data to optimize instrument efficiency.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain IC instruments; ensure accurate analysis.
• Record and report data using LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System).
• Participate in method development and QA/QC requirements.

Skills

Sample prep

Instrument maintenance

Data interpretation

Laboratory safety

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry

Tools

IC instrument

Pipettes

Laboratory scales

Syringes

PC

Job description

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.

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 FUTUREThis 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.

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 IC Analyst plays a key role in environmental and product testing, focusing on precise sample preparation and instrument maintenance for Ion Chromatography (IC) systems, and managing quantitative analysis through standalone and networked data systems.

Primary Responsibilities

IC Methods: EPA 300, EPA 9056, EPA 5050, EN14582

• Prepare samples for analysis, including dilutions and standards using pipettes, and prepare waste samples using laboratory scales, pipettes, and syringes.
• Build sequence and batch data to optimize instrument efficiency for each analytical run.
• Organize, plan, and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment to meet client objectives.
• Make informed decisions about sample quality before analysis.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain IC instruments to ensure accurate analysis.
• Analyze and interpret data for solids (45%), water (45%), and waste (10%) samples, ensuring proper documentation.
• Evaluate information received from instruments and make informed decisions for analysis.
• Quantify and qualify results based on analytical methods and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Record and report data using Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) Element 7.
• Communicate findings and analysis results with supervisors, peers, and subordinates.
• Regularly update the status of work orders in the Work Status Report (WSR) system, tracking progress with each sample.
• Participate in method development and validation to improve testing procedures.
• Inspect IC instruments and perform preventative maintenance, including inlet maintenance, column changes, source cleaning, and verifying instrument calibration per QA/QC requirements.
• Evaluate and ensure compliance with laboratory safety procedures, recommending improvements as necessary.
• Oxygen Bomb Combustion prep.
• Dispose of expired samples following waste disposal protocols.
• Other duties as assigned.

Instruments Used

IC, Pipettes, Laboratory Scales, Syringes, PC

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in chemistry, analytical chemistry, bio