Avarint’s Chemical Sciences Group is seeking an Associate Chemist based in Charlottesville, VA. Travel outside of the continental 

U.S. (OCONUS) will be required. Primary duties will include:

· Performing work in both CONUS and OCONUS laboratories.

· Developing and improving analytical methods for the measurement of a broad spectrum of chemicals in various matrices using GC-MS, LC-MS/MS and other techniques.

· Providing technical expertise and support to the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

· Reviewing and continuously improving the QA/QC program to ensure that all reported data is accurate, complete, reliable and of high-confidence.

· Formalizing and executing a preventive maintenance program for analytical instrumentation and performing general maintenance and repair on instruments as needed (such as GC-MS, LC-MS/MS, FTIR, XRD, SEM and ICP-MS).

· Performing sample analysis using various instrumentation and comparing data to libraries of known results for the specific instrument and analyte being tested.

· Taking photographs of samples, sample matrices, items being analyzed and/or other exhibits to support the analysis, conclusions and reporting of results; and documenting test results and conclusions in the required Laboratory Information System(s) and databases.

· Developing analysis reports that include methods, procedures and analytical data including interpretation of results and annotating the file documentation; and performing technical and/or administrative reviews of files, reports, data sets, results and conclusions.

· Ensuring proper chain-of-custody procedures are followed for all items and samples.

· Maintaining a safe and laboratory work environment in accordance with all documented laboratory procedures.

Why Avarint:

· 401K – No waiting period. 100% vested on date of hire.

· 3% company contribution in the first year of employment, company contribution increases over time. Employee is not required to contribute to the plan to receive Avarint contribution. 

· Health Insurance – No waiting period – competitive costs. 

· Dental, Vision insurance after 6 months – Employer paid benefit for employees and dependents. 

· Life Insurance after 6 months – Employer paid benefit for the employee. 

· Generous paid time off, unlimited sick time and 9 paid holidays. 

 EOE/M/F/V/D 

The position also requires that the selected candidate possesses:  

· Strong hands-on laboratory skills with respect to GC-MS and/or LC-MS/MS instrument operation and sample analysis.

· Excellent organizational skills and communication skills (oral and written) and the ability to appropriately communicate with colleagues, management and clients to plan and execute duties.

· Deep attention to detail and the flexibility and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS MUST BE MET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION:

Minimum Qualifications

· BS in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry or other related discipline; or 5 years of direct professional experience in laboratory analysis.

· Experience with Microsoft Office software including MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint. 

· Experience and proficiency with GC-MS and/or LC-MS/MS.

· Ability to maintain a DoD Secret security clearance and pass a CI polygraph.

· U.S. citizenship and eligible for a U.S. Passport.

· A medical examination will be required to ensure ability to perform duties and wear personal protective equipment.

THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS ARE DESIRED BUT NOT REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION:

· An active DoD security clearance (S, TS w/ SCI eligibility; or TS/SCI).

· Previous experience working in the Intelligence Community (IC) environment.

· Experience with Microsoft Office software including Access, Project and Outlook.

· Deployed experience in analytical/operational environment.

· Experience in contract research, working for the federal government and/or private organizations.