ICP Instrument Operator / Environmental Chemist

ACZ Labs; Steamboat Springs (CO); On-site; USD 30,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

401(k)

Health insurance

Flexible spending account

Vision insurance

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Relocation assistance including worker

Job summary

ACZ Laboratories, Inc. in Steamboat Springs, CO is seeking an ICP Instrument Operator / Environmental Chemist. You will analyze environmental samples (soil, water, biota), prepare specimens, and use ICP-OES, Hg CVAA and Se HG‑AA to deliver high-quality data for regulatory reporting.

The role requires a chemistry-related degree, strong attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or in a team within a fast-paced lab, with full benefits and relocation assistance where applicable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, environmental science, or a related field.
• Previous experience in an environmental lab or analytical chemistry is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with EPA and ASTM standards.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to take initiative and complete tasks with minimal supervision.
• Can work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficient in data analysis software and Microsoft Office.
• Strong work ethic.

Responsibilities

• Conduct instrumented analysis of environmental samples including soil, water, biota and potentially hazardous waste.
• Prepare samples for analysis: digestion, filtration, and dilution as required by SOPs.
• Perform chemical analyses using ICP-OES, Hg CVAA, direct combustion-AA, and Se HG-AA.
• Ensure accurate analysis to support environmental monitoring and regulatory reporting.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory instruments and support equipment.
• Execute approved methods and stay current with industry trends in analytical chemistry.
• Document, review and report test results using ACZ's LIMS.
• Maintain records and collaborate with project managers to meet deadlines.
• Support safety, regulatory compliance, and ACZ's mission and quality system.

Skills

Verbal & written communication

Organizational skills

Initiative & autonomy

Team & independent work

Strong work ethic

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemistry, environmental science, or a related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

LIMS

Job description

ACZ Laboratories, Inc. is an environmental testing laboratory located in the beautiful mountain town of Steamboat Springs, CO. Founded in 1980, ACZ Laboratories is an accredited environmental testing laboratory with inorganic, organic, and radiochemical capabilities. We specialize in the analysis of trace-level contaminants in water, soil, sediment, sludge, waste, biota, and tissue.

ACZ Laboratories’ reputation as a leader in the environmental testing industry is a direct result of the quality of our employees. We believe in hiring highly motivated professionals with dedication to data quality, personal integrity, and a strong work ethic.

Located in beautiful Steamboat Springs, Colorado, where residents enjoy a high quality of life and unlimited year-round recreation opportunities.

ACZ offers careers in environmental chemistry with excellent benefit packages, including:

• Paid time off
• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Vision insurance
• Disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Relocation assistance including employee housing

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented ICP Instrument Operator / Environmental Chemist to join our team and provide clients and communities with high quality data to ensure a healthy environment for present and future generations. The ICP Instrument Operator / Environmental Chemist reports directly to and works with the Metals Lab Supervisor.

As an ICP Instrument Operator / Environmental Chemist, you will be responsible for conducting instrumented analysis of environmental samples including soil, water, biota and potentially hazardous waste. You will play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and providing accurate data to support environmental assessments and projects. The ideal candidate will have strong technical knowledge in analytical chemistry, attention to detail, and a passion for environmental sustainability.

Job Responsibilities

Conduct accurate and timely environmental sample analysis

• Prepare samples for analysis, including digestion, filtration, and dilution as required by standard operating procedures.
• Perform chemical analyses of environmental samples using various spectrometry instrumentation (ICP-OES, Hg by CVAA and direct combustion-AA, Se by HG-AA).
• Ensure accurate analysis on environmental samples for various constituents to provide high-quality data that supports environmental monitoring and regulatory reporting.

Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and quality standards

• Execute approved methods according to laboratory standard operating procedures.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in analytical chemistry.
• Participate in the development and validation of new laboratory methods and procedures.
• Perform quality control checks and maintain records of laboratory activities.

Maintain and calibrate laboratory instruments

• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.
• Monitor and maintain support equipment such as balances, ovens, and thermometers.
• Perform periodic inter-element correction and detection limit studies on spectrometry instruments.

Document, review and report test results

• Prepare and review data using ACZ’s LIMS.
• Maintain complete and accurate records of laboratory activities.
• Collaborate with project managers and other team members to meet project deadlines and deliverables.

Support laboratory safety, environmental protection and mission

• Learn, embrace, and adhere to ACZ's mission, core values, and quality system.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and laboratory safety protocols.
• Perform other duties as instructed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, environmental science, or a related field
• Previous experience in an environmental lab or analytical chemistry role is highly desirable
• Familiarity with environmental testing methodology and regulations (e.g., EPA, ASTM standards)
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to take initiative and complete tasks with minimal supervision
• Can work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Proficient in data analysis software and Microsoft Office
• Strong work ethic

What We Offer

• Full-time, fully benefited position; paid time off, paid holidays, health, dental, 401k, profit sharing, disability and accident insurance
• Flexible work schedule

ACZ is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Position is posted until November 30, 2026.