Laboratory Analyst, IC

Sterling Labs; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 22,000 - 31,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare benefits

401(k) retirement

Paid time off

Job summary

Sterling Labs in Des Plaines, IL is seeking an IC Analyst to support environmental and product testing. You will prepare samples, run ion chromatography, and maintain IC systems to ensure accurate results.

You will also document analyses and QA steps, and coordinate with teammates to meet client timelines. Responsibilities include building data sequences, interpreting results for solids, water, and waste samples, and reporting via LIMS.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related field.
• 1 year IC instrument experience preferred.
• Familiarity with LIMS software.
• Strong understanding of chromatographic separation principles.
• Ability to interpret data and maintain high-quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples and standards for IC analysis.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain IC instruments.
• Build sequence and batch data to optimize instrument efficiency.
• Record and report data using LIMS and QA procedures.
• Update work orders in the Work Status Report (WSR) system.

Skills

Chromatography principles

Data interpretation

Troubleshooting

Method development & validation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related field

Tools

LIMS software

Job description

Job Type

Full-time

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 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 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, biochemistry, or a related field.
• 1 year of experience working with IC 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 IC 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.

Salary Description

19.00/h