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

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

Job summary

Sterling Labs, a DoD and AIHA-accredited environmental laboratory, seeks a PFAS & HPLC Analyst to perform precise sample preparation, instrument maintenance, and data management. The role focuses on PFAS and HPLC analyses across solids and water samples, with emphasis on accuracy and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities include instrument operation, data interpretation, method development participation, and strict adherence to SOPs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field is required or preferred.
• Experience with HPLC or PFAS instruments is advantageous.
• Familiarity with LIMS software and chromatographic separation principles is expected.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples for PFAS and HPLC analyses with dilutions and standards.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain PFAS and HPLC instruments.
• Record and report data using LIMS and ensure QA/QC compliance.
• Evaluate instrument data and ensure sample integrity and documentation.
• Contribute to method development and validation activities.
• Maintain safety and cleanliness of the work area.

Skills

Chromatography principles

Data interpretation

Method development

Quality standards

Analytical troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field

Tools

HPLC

LC-MS/MS

LIMS

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 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

Sterling Labs offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and well-being of our full-time employees:

• 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 protocols.
• Other duties as assigned.

Instruments Used

HPLC, LC MS-MS, Pipettes, Laboratory Scales, Syringes, PC

Requirements

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field.
• 1 year of experience working with HPLC or PFAS instruments in a laboratory setting is preferred.
• Familiarity with LIMS software.
• Strong understanding of chromatographic separation principles.
• Ability to interpret data, troubleshoot equipment, and maintain high-quality standards.
• Experience in method development and validation.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of standing while preparing samples, operating PFAS and HPLC instruments, and performing analytical testing.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle pipettes, syringes, glassware, and laboratory instruments with precision.
• Must be able to lift, carry, and move reagent containers, gas cylinders, and laboratory equipment weighing up to 30 pounds using proper and safe lifting techniques.
• Occasional bending, reaching, and stooping to install columns, access lower equipment areas, or retrieve laboratory supplies.
• Must be able to visually inspect chromatograms, instrument displays, and sample characteristics accurately; specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Must be able to work safely around acids, bases, compressed gases, and other hazardous chemicals while wearing required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coats, and safety glasses.
• Ability to maintain sustained concentration and attention to detail during repetitive analytical procedures and data review.
• Must be able to communicate clearly with supervisors and coworkers regarding workload, results, and equipment performance.