The Work

The Scientist III is responsible for collecting environmental samples, performing laboratory analyses, and maintaining sampling instrumentation in accordance with methodologies for both regulatory and non-regulatory compliance. This role requires participation in proficiency testing.

This position aligns with Cayuse’s core values of Innovation, Excellence, Collaboration, Adaptability, and Integrity by fostering technical solutions that meet customer needs, promoting teamwork, and prioritizing quality in deliverables.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct environmental sampling including, but not limited to, NPDES permitted outfalls, drinking water, groundwater, hazardous waste and CERCLA monitoring wells.
• Participate in the development of annual and monthly sampling plans with Laboratory Lead and communicate/ coordinate sampling with laboratory scientists.
• Maintain field instrumentation including, but not limited to, well sampling pumps, composite samplers and field environmental monitoring devices.
• Maintains field vehicles, mileage logs, gas receipts and delivers vehicle to vendor for required service.
• Participate in and maintain laboratory’s Drinking Water Microbiological Certification status through the MSDH. Participate in audits related to the MSDH certification programs.
• Conduct quantitative environmental chemistry measurements using Wet Chemistry techniques
• Adhere to all guidelines established in EPA methods and laboratory standard operating procedures including active participation in quality control set forth in all. Participate in review, revision and update of standard operating procedures.
• Actively participates in contractor quality and safety program, conducts peer reviews and is committed to continual process improvements.
• Participates in providing innovative approaches to technical problems, contributes to the overall increase in lab efficiency through adaptive thought and information exchanges.
• Guides and trains assigned personnel as required and advises supervisory personnel of their progress.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications – Here’s What You Need

• Bachelor of Science degree with seven years of directly related experience conducting environmental sampling. Time in grade relevant to the AES progression cycle may also apply.
• Professional knowledge of chemical principles, theories, practices, and established methodology sufficient to perform chemical analyses on a wide variety of samples.
• Skilled in operating and calibrating field instrumentation and laboratory bench instrumentation
• Must be competent in developing, modifying and writing methods and procedures.
• Must be able to pass a background check. May require additional background checks as required by projects and/or clients at any time during employment.

Minimum Skills:

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate in a clear, professional, and articulate manner.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high-level attention to detail.
• Proven ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast past environment with changing priorities; adaptable to change and a quick learner.
• Must be self-motivated and able to work well independently as well as on a multi-functional team.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately
• Proficient in MS Office, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master of Science with four years of related laboratory experience
• PhD in Science
• Professional knowledge of chemical principles, theories, practices and established methodology sufficient to perform chemical analyses on a wide variety of samples.
• Skilled in operating and calibrating sophisticated analytical instrumentation to independently analyses samples.

Our Commitment to you / overview of benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance; Wellness Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare, Dependent Care, Commuter)
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability options
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance (Company Provided)
• Voluntary Life and AD&D options
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with matching after one year
• Paid Time Off

Reports to: Program Manager

Working Conditions

• Professional environment, with the ability to work onsite.
• May be exposed to indoor or outdoor uncontrolled environments with moving equipment, mechanical, chemical, or biological hazards.
• May be exposed to dust, fumes, and or gases.
• Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 74 pounds.
• Must be physically and mentally able to perform duties extended periods of time.
• Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed to meet the demands of this position.
• Must be able to establish a productive and professional workspace.
• May be asked to work a flexible schedule which may include holidays.
• May be asked to travel for business or professional development purposes.
• May be asked to work hours outside of normal business hours.

Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.  Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Cayuse is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, skills, and abilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment in accordance with any applicable federal, state, or local law.