GC-ECD/FID Analyst at ALS in Kelso, WA

At ALS, we encourage you to dream big.

When you join us, you’ll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future. 

Imagine your future with us!

At ALS, we encourage you to dream big. When you join ALS, you become part of a purpose‑ and values‑driven organization that empowers innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Our global team brings passion and commitment every day—continually challenging conventional thinking to solve some of the world’s most complex problems and contribute to a safer, healthier world.

Position Summary

The GC‑ECD / GC‑FID Analyst is a highly skilled analytical professional responsible for performing gas chromatography analyses using Electron Capture Detection (ECD) and Flame Ionization Detection (FID) in a high‑throughput environmental production laboratory. This role requires strong hands‑on experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting GC‑ECD and GC‑FID instrumentation across multiple EPA and client‑specific methods, including but not limited to EPA Methods 8081, 8082, and 8015.

The Analyst is expected to maintain productivity under demanding turnaround times, ensure strict regulatory compliance, independently resolve routine technical issues, and contribute to consistent, high‑quality analytical output. This position plays a critical role in delivering defensible data in support of regulatory compliance, site remediation, and environmental monitoring programs.

Primary Responsibilities

Instrument Operation & Technical Ownership

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot GC‑ECD and GC‑FID systems in a regulated production environment
• Perform routine instrument maintenance, including inlet maintenance, detector maintenance (ECD cell care, FID jet and collector cleaning), column installation, leak checks, and performance verification
• Identify and resolve routine instrument performance issues related to sensitivity, baseline stability, retention time shifts, and peak shape
• Support advanced troubleshooting activities in collaboration with senior analysts, technical specialists, and vendors
• Maintain complete and accurate instrument logs, maintenance records, and run documentation in accordance with quality system requirements

Analytical & Production Responsibilities

• Perform analyses using EPA 8081 (Organochlorine Pesticides), EPA 8082 (PCBs), EPA 8015 (TPH, GRO, DRO), and related GC‑ECD/GC‑FID methods
• Prepare, sequence, and analyze calibration standards, QC samples, and analytical batches in accordance with method and regulatory requirements
• Maintain consistent analytical throughput while meeting strict client turnaround times
• Evaluate chromatographic data for integration accuracy, baseline performance, and reporting limits
• Perform routine data review and reprocessing as required, documenting technical rationale for adjustments

Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with EPA, state, client, and accreditation requirements (NELAC/TNI, DoD, etc.)
• Monitor method‑specific QC parameters, including continuing calibrations, blanks, LCS, MS/MSD, surrogate recoveries, and retention time windows
• Identify QA/QC exceedances and notify Laboratory Operations or QA for corrective action initiation
• Support internal audits, external assessments, and client data reviews as assigned
• Adhere strictly to SOPs, safety procedures, and data integrity requirements

Method Support & Continuous Improvement

• Support method optimization efforts, including column selection, temperature programs, injection parameters, and detector conditions
• Assist with validation studies, and implementation of client‑specific requirements under direction of senior staff
• Contribute to SOP updates and method performance documentation
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to efficiency, quality, and instrument uptime

Collaboration & Communication

• Communicate sample status, sequencing priorities, and potential turnaround risks to Laboratory Operations and Project Management
• Document and communicate technical issues and resolutions clearly and concisely
• Work collaboratively in a fast‑paced, safety‑focused, and quality‑driven laboratory environment

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong working knowledge of GC‑ECD and GC‑FID theory, operation, and routine troubleshooting
• Working familiarity with EPA 8081, 8082, 8015, or equivalent GC‑based environmental methods
• Ability to follow detailed SOPs and regulatory requirements in a production laboratory setting
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data quality and defensibility
• Ability to manage multiple analytical sequences and priorities concurrently
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency with MassHunter chromatography data systems, laboratory information systems (LIMS), and electronic recordkeeping

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline
• Minimum of two (2) to four (4) years of hands‑on experience operating GC‑ECD and/or GC‑FID instrumentation in an environmental laboratory
• Demonstrated experience performing at least one EPA GC‑ECD or GC‑FID method in a regulated laboratory environment

Preferred Experience and Knowledge

• Experience performing multiple GC‑ECD and GC‑FID methods, including pesticides, PCBs, and petroleum hydrocarbons
• Experience in a high‑throughput environmental production laboratory
• Familiarity with DoD, state, or other highly regulated compliance programs
• Experience supporting audits, corrective actions, or data package preparation
• Exposure to method development, optimization, or verification activities

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods during an 8‑hour workday
• Manual dexterity required for sample preparation and instrument maintenance
• Ability to read and interpret chromatograms, QC reports, and analytical documentation
• Ability to communicate clearly with peers, supervisors, and support teams

Working at ALS

Our people are our greatest asset and the foundation of our success. ALS is a diverse, inclusive community of professionals united by a shared purpose to make a meaningful difference. We recognize and reward excellence, invest in continuous learning, and provide career development opportunities across our global organization. At ALS, you will find a supportive environment that values safety, flexibility, and professional fulfillment—allowing you to build a rewarding career while making a positive impact on our people, our planet, and our communities.

About ALS

ALS is a global leader in scientific testing, delivering comprehensive analytical solutions across more than 60 countries. Serving industries including environmental, food and beverage, mining, pharmaceutical, healthcare, personal care, and equipment reliability, ALS combines state‑of‑the‑art technologies with local expertise. Our teams transform data into actionable insights—supporting safer, healthier, and more sustainable outcomes worldwide.

Everyone matters

ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to achieving and maintaining a workforce which reflects and affirms the diversity of our society

ALS is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. 

EOE AA Minority, Female, Veteran, Individuals with Disabilities 

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ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Accommodation is available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

How to apply

Please apply on-line with your resume and outline your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.

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Working at ALS

The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world.

Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognise excellence. 

At ALS, you’ll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential. We invest in our people with programs and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us. 

We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.

Everyone Matters

ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued.

Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, military or veteran status, gender, age, disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information and any other characteristics protected by the law. We invite resumes from all interested parties, including women, members of minority groups, and persons living with disabilities.  

ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request. 

Eligibility
To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or either hold or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.

How to apply
Please apply on-line and provide a resume & cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.