Trace Element Geochemist

Barrios; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Barrios Technology seeks a Trace Element Geochemist to join the JETSII Contract in Houston, TX. You will analyze astromaterials, perform ICP-MS/MC-ICP-MS analyses, and develop clean-lab ion-chromography methods to support NASA-related research.

You will prepare samples, document results, and collaborate with in-house and visiting researchers. This role requires a BS with 2–5 years (or higher degrees) and strong communication and lab skills for a demanding, safety‑conscious environment.

Qualifications

• BS degree, plus two to five years of experience.
• Experience working in clean laboratory environment preparing samples and utilizing ion-chromatography
• Experience conducting experiments, summarizing results, preparing reports for internal and external use, and contributing to the preparation of abstracts and manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience operating an ICP-MS or MC-ICP-MS instrument
• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as excellent interpersonal skills.
• Good computer skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Analyze Astromaterial samples and analogs.
• Utilize ion-chromatography methods in a clean lab setting.
• Contribute to contamination minimization and clean techniques.
• Conduct sample preparation for, and perform analyses on the ICP-MS and MC-ICP-MS.
• Provide general and facility support for lab users including the procurement and inventory of supplies and laboratory equipment, instrument calibration, and routine maintenance.
• Validate, summarize and communicate quantitative results.
• Meticulously document procedures and results and actively participate in safety programs.
• Work with in-house, as well as visiting, researchers on all aspects of sample preparation and analysis.
• Perform other duties as required.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Computer skills

Education

BS degree in related discipline

MS degree in related discipline

Ph.D. in related discipline

Tools

ICP-MS instrument

MC-ICP-MS instrument

Ion chromatography equipment

Job description

Trace Element Geochemist

Job Locations

US-TX-Houston

Overview

Barrios Technology is an engineering solutions partner with more than 45 years of experience supporting NASA and the commercial space industry. We deliver innovative engineering, software, and technology integration services across NASA centers nationwide. Barrios prides itself on a people-focused culture that values creativity, diversity, professional growth, and a healthy work-life balance.

Are you passionate about human space exploration, understanding the origins of the universe, and working with a passionate and diverse team to make a difference? If you are, we need you!

We need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe. We need you to bring creative ideas and diverse backgrounds to help us envision, shape, and deliver systems that will enable the exploration of space while benefiting people here on Earth. We are excited about what we do, and we need you on our team as we take on exciting challenges for NASA's pursuits in deep space exploration. As NASA's largest engineering solutions provider working together with NASA at centers across the United States.

We are looking for a Trace Element Geochemist to join the JETSII Contract with Barrios, a teammate company!

Responsibilities

• Analyze Astromaterial samples and analogs.
• Utilize ion-chromatography methods in a clean lab setting.
• Contribute to contamination minimization and clean techniques.
• Conduct sample preparation for, and perform analyses on the ICP-MS and MC-ICP-MS.
• Provide general and facility support for lab users including the procurement and inventory of supplies and laboratory equipment, instrument calibration, and routine maintenance.
• Validate, summarize and communicate quantitative results.
• Meticulously document procedures and results and actively participate in safety programs.
• Work with in-house, as well as visiting, researchers on all aspects of sample preparation and analysis.
• Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications

Required Education/Experience/Skills

• BS degree, plus two (2) to five (5) years of experience.
• Experience working in clean laboratory environment preparing samples and utilizing ion-chromatography
• Experience conducting experiments, summarizing results, preparing reports for internal and external use, and contributing to the preparation of abstracts and manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience operating an ICP-MS or MC-ICP-MS instrument
• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as excellent interpersonal skills.
• Good computer skills are essential.

Preferences

• BS degree from an accredited college or university in an associated technical discipline and four (4) years related experience, or MS degree in an associated technical discipline with two (2) years of related experience, or Ph.D. in an associated technical discipline.
• A graduate degree and at least two years of relevant laboratory experience.
• Experience with developing ion-chromatography methods
• Experience with analysis on the MC-ICP-MS particularly non-traditional stable isotopes systems.
• Experience with mineral separations and micro-sampling.
• Familiarity with irreplaceable astromaterial samples.

Essential Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Citizen and successfully complete a U.S. government background investigation.
• Applicant selected may be subject to government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
• Work may involve sitting for extended periods.
• May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lb.
• Must have sufficient mobility to enter areas of test facilities where necessary.
• Generally, an office environment but can involve inside or outside work depending on task.
• Standard office equipment (PC, telephone, fax, etc.)
• Regular attendance in accordance with established work schedule is critical.
• Ability to work outside normal schedule and adjust schedule to meet peak periods and surge requirements when required.
• Must be able to work in a team atmosphere.
• Must put forward a professional behavior that enhances productivity and promotes teamwork and cooperation.
• Grooming and dress must be appropriate for the position and must not impose a safety risk/hazard to the employee or others.
• This position may require some commuting and traveling to other installations as needed.

Barrios Technology is a drug-free workplace, which is imperative to the health and safety of all employees and is required as a condition of receiving contracts from federal agencies. Please remember that regardless of the legalization of marijuana in several states, possession and use continues to be illegal under the federal Controlled Substances Act. This includes the use of some CBD products. A post-offer, pre-employment drug test is a condition of employment.

Barrios Technology is an Equal Employment Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.