PFAS Laboratory Manager

RTI International is an independent, scientific research institute dedicated to improving the human condition. Our vision is to address the world's most critical problems with technical and science-based solutions in pursuit of a better future. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach-one that integrates expertise across social, statistical, data, and laboratory sciences, engineering, and other technical disciplines to solve the world's most challenging problems.

We believe in the promise of science and technical solutions, and we push ourselves every day to deliver on that promise for the good of people, communities, and businesses in the US and around the world. If you are looking for the opportunity to make a real difference, RTI is the place for you.

The Analytical Sciences Group at RTI International applies cutting edge analytical chemistry and laboratory science to address complex environmental and public health challenges. Our multidisciplinary team conducts PFAS research and analytical testing in support of government and commercial clients, including environmental monitoring, exposure assessment, and contaminant characterization. Using advanced LC-MS/MS and high-resolution mass spectrometry platforms, we analyze PFAS in a wide range of environmental and biological matrices, develop and validate innovative analytical methods, and generate high quality scientific data.

We are currently seeking a PFAS Laboratory Manager to oversee a growing portfolio of

government funded and private sector projects focused on PFAS detection, quantitation, fate, transport, exposure, and mitigation. This laboratory role will lead operations and program execution across multiple PFAS research domains, working closely with project managers, analysts, chemists, and technicians.

Essential Duties:

• Oversee daily operations of the PFAS analytical laboratory, ensuring efficient workflow, sample throughput, and adherence to turnaround times.
• Ensure instrument readiness, including LC MS/MS, LC HRMS, and sample preparation systems.
• Develop and enforce SOPs, QA/QC procedures, safety protocols specific to PFAS analysis, and data-integrity practices aligned with accreditation standards.
• Manage laboratory resources, including staffing, consumables, standards, and maintenance schedules.
• Review and approve analytical data, including chromatographic performance, calibration, QC checks, and reporting packages.
• Supervise and mentor laboratory staff, including analysts, technicians, and junior scientists.
• Serve as the primary technical contact for PFAS-related inquiries from clients, regulators, and collaborators.
• Contribute to capital equipment requests for sample preparation and analysis instrumentation.

To be successful in this role you will possess:

• Effective multitasking and prioritization to manage competing deadlines, project demands, and laboratory operations.
• Clear and professional communication skills, both verbal and written, for interacting with staff, clients, regulators, and stakeholders.
• Proficiency with computer based tools including data analysis software and instrument control software.
• Strong organizational skills for managing sample flow, documentation, QA/QC records, and accreditation requirements.
• Leadership and team-building skills to mentor staff, delegate tasks, and maintain a
• high-performance laboratory culture.
• Time management skills to balance operational duties, project oversight, and administrative responsibilities.
• Commitment to laboratory safety including chemical hygiene, hazard communication, and safe instrument operation

NOTE: This role is classified as acontract position. The selected individual will provide services under a contractual employment through our staffing partner, HR Directions. Continuation of the assignment is subject to project needs, funding, and satisfactory performance.

• Bachelor's level degree in chemistry, environmental science, or related discipline plus 7 years of experience in analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, or mass spectrometry based analysis.
• 5+ years of hands on PFAS analytical experience using LC MS/MS and/or high resolution mass spectrometry.
• Demonstrated laboratory management experience and advanced PFAS method expertise.
• Demonstrated proficiency with EPA PFAS methods (e.g., EPA 1633, 537.1, 533).
• 3 years of laboratory leadership, including supervision, workflow oversight, and staff development.
• Proven track record in method development and validation for PFAS in environmental or biological matrices.
• Experience with QA/QC systems including calibration, control charts, blanks, spikes, and data defensibility.
• Project management experience with government, commercial, or academic clients.
• Experience preparing technical reports, data packages, and regulatory compliant deliverables.

Preferred:

• Advanced degree with significant PFAS analytical experience;
• Experience with PFAS in complex matrices such as landfill leachate, wastewater solids, biosolids, or industrial effluents.
• Experience with total fluorine / TOF analysis (CIC, PIGE, TOF combustion).
• Experience developing new PFAS analytical methods beyond regulatory methods.

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For San Francisco, CA USA Job Postings Only: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Further information is availablehere.

RTI accepts applications to our job openings from candidates with criminal histories or conviction records in accordance with all applicable laws, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

For Applicants in Massachusetts Only:It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

The anticipated pay range for this role is listed below. Our pay ranges represent national averages and may vary by location as a geographic differential may be applied to some locations within the United States. RTI considers multiple factors when making an offer including, for example: established salary range, internal budget, business needs, and education and years of work experience possessed by the applicant. Further, salary is merely one element to our offer.

At RTI, we demonstrate our commitment to rewarding individual and team achievement through a total rewards package. This package includes (among other things) a competitive base salary, a generous paid time off policy, merit based annual increases, bonus opportunities and a robust recognition program. Other benefits include a competitive range of insurance plans (including health, dental, life, and short-term and long-term disability), access to a retirement savings program such as a 401(k) plan, paid parental leave for all parents, financial assistance with adoption expenses or infertility treatments, financial reimbursement for education and developmental opportunities, an employee assistance program, and numerous other offerings to support a healthy work-life balance.