Entry-Level Laboratory Analyst, PFAS & HPLC (Mon-Fri 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM)

Sterling Labs; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare Benefits

401(k) retirement plan

Life insurance

Disability coverage

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Sterling Labs in Des Plaines, IL, is seeking a PFAS & HPLC Analyst to contribute to environmental and product testing. The role focuses on precise sample prep, instrument maintenance, and quantitative analysis using PFAS and HPLC methods.

You will manage data in LIMS, ensure QA/QC, and participate in method development while maintaining safety standards in a fast-paced laboratory setting.

Responsibilities

• PFAS Analysis: 1633 Solids and Water, 537.1 Modified Solids and Water, 533 Drinking Water, 537.1 Drinking Water
• HPLC Analysis: 8321 Herbicides, 8318 Carbamates, 8330 Explosives
• 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, prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment to meet client objectives.
• Make informed decisions about sample quality before analysis.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain PFAS and HPLC 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 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 PFAS/HPLC 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.
• Dispose of expired samples following waste disposal protocol.

Job description

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 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 PFAS & HPLC Analyst plays a key role in environmental and product testing, focusing on precise sample preparation and instrument maintenance for Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and managing quantitative analysis through standalone and networked data systems.

Primary Responsibilities

• PFAS Analysis: 1633 Solids and Water, 537.1 Modified Solids and Water, 533 Drinking Water, 537.1 Drinking Water

Secondary Responsibilities

• HPLC Analysis: 8321 Herbicides, 8318 Carbamates, 8330 Explosives
• 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 PFAS and HPLC 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 PFAS/HPLC 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.
• Dispose of expired samples following waste disposal prot