LATA POSITION: Scientist II, Volatile Organic Compound Monitoring Program

Department: Environmental Monitoring & Hydrology (Carlsbad, NM)

Job description:

LATA is currently searching for a Scientist II for the Volatile Organic Compound Monitoring section for the project in Carlsbad, New Mexico. This is a government contract to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) supporting the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP).
The WIPP Environmental Monitoring & Hydrology section of LATA provides environmental, regulatory, technical, and sampling expertise on all facets of the Environmental Monitoring Program at the WIPP facility. As leaders in project excellence, LATA has over four decades of proven success in global and domestic markets as a small business specializing in federal government contracting. The VOC team consists of a Lead, one Scientist, and several sampling technicians. This position will be responsible for sampling, assisting with scheduling pre-jobs and post-job briefings, sample control and tracking, sample delivery, receipt and processing of clean canisters and sampling equipment, compliance with the Permit, standard operating procedures (SOPs), Job Hazard Analysis (JHAs), and quality assurance requirements.

• Job requires working at the WIPP site, a remote location approximately 40 miles (travel distance) east of Carlsbad, NM.
• Performance of sampling in an underground mine and remote locations on surface is required.
• Assist with coordination to install sample tubing in an underground mine.
• Assist with Procurement of supplies and equipment and coordinate with Cognizant Engineer on VOC systems.
• Maintain and track calibration of measurement and test equipment as needed.
• Assist with records, training, plans, SOPs, JHAs, and management assessments.
• Evaluate data and write reports for the VOC Program as needed.
• Participate in quality assurance (QA) audits/surveillances of the VOC Program, as well as other groups, including metrology. Provide corrective actions and closure of issues/findings.
• Manage software as software custodian.
• Perform sampling and analytical data verification and validation, database management, Annual Site Environmental Report (ASER) preparation and review, Semi-annual VOC Data Summary Report preparation and review coordination.
• Perform VOC Program underground management and communication (sampling coordination, work packages, sample tubing installation, interface with Mining/Underground Operations, Radiological Control, and Cognizant Engineer) as needed.
• Assist with communicating with laboratory regarding results of samples, audits, performance testing, implementation of changes, and SOPs as needed.
• Communicate with Permittees and regulatory agencies regarding the program.
• Manage VOC records in accordance with Records Inventory and Disposition Schedule.
• Coordinate sampling and schedule with the Environmental Support Group. Providing sampling support as needed.
• Provide Permit public-hearing testimony and support as needed, as well as implement Program changes.
• Provide support in other Environmental Monitoring & Hydrology programs, as needed.

• B.S. degree in science-related field and 2 to 4 years of experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office software.
• Attention to detail and initiative is required.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Must be highly motivated.
• Must be able to work independently and as a team member.