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Digestion Microwave Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Digestion Microwave information

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How much do digestion microwave jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for digestion microwave in the United States is $22.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Digestion Microwave?

A Digestion Microwave is a specialized laboratory instrument used to prepare samples for chemical analysis, often in environmental, food, and pharmaceutical labs. It uses microwave energy to heat samples with acids in sealed vessels, accelerating the breakdown and digestion of complex matrices. This process enables more accurate and efficient analysis of elements by techniques such as ICP-OES or ICP-MS. Digestion microwaves help ensure consistent sample preparation, reduce contamination risks, and improve overall laboratory throughput.

What are typical safety precautions to be aware of when operating a digestion microwave in a laboratory setting?

Operating a digestion microwave in a laboratory involves handling high temperatures, pressures, and potentially hazardous chemicals. It’s essential to always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, and safety goggles. Make sure to follow standard operating procedures, routinely inspect vessels for cracks or defects, and never exceed recommended sample loads or reagent volumes. Additionally, proper ventilation and training are crucial to ensure safe handling and to minimize risks of accidents or chemical exposure during sample preparation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Digestion Microwave Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Digestion Microwave Operator, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, chemical safety, and sample preparation, often supported by a background in chemistry or laboratory technology. Familiarity with microwave digestion systems, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and relevant safety certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and safe operation in the lab. These skills are crucial for producing reliable analytical results and maintaining a safe, compliant laboratory environment.

What is the difference between Digestion Microwave vs Laboratory Microwave Technician?

AspectDigestion MicrowaveLaboratory Microwave Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in chemistry or related fieldRequires technical training or certification in laboratory equipment
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industrial settingsLaboratories, testing centers, research labs
Industry UsageUsed for sample digestion in analytical chemistryMaintains and repairs laboratory microwave equipment

While Digestion Microwave specialists focus on operating microwave digestion systems for sample preparation, Laboratory Microwave Technicians handle the maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory microwave devices. Both roles require familiarity with laboratory procedures, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

Environmental Analyst

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

Position Summary The Environmental Analyst in the Metal Section performs laboratory-based testing and analysis of metals in environmental samples using advanced analytical instruments. The role emphasizes data accuracy, adherence to EPA protocols, and upholding quality assurance standards. Key Responsibilities Conduct trace-metal analysis in environmental matrices (water, wastewater, soil, sludge, biosolids, etc.) following EPA methods (200.7, 200.8, 245.1, 3050B, etc.)

Perform sample preparation including hot-block digestion, microwave digestion, and fusion techniques. Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot analytical instrumentation: ICP-OES and ICP-MS for multi-element quantification Graphite Furnace AA (GFAA), Cold Vapor AA (CVAAS), and Cold Vapor Atomic Fluorescence (CVAFS) for mercury and other ultra-trace metals UV-Vis spectrophotometry for colorimetric metal assays Execute full QA/QC protocols per EPA and NELAC/TNI standards: calibration curves, continuing calibration verification (CCV), blanks, laboratory control samples (LCS), matrix spikes/duplicates, and internal standards. Enter, review, and validate data in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS); flag outliers and ensure traceability.

Participate in internal audits, proficiency testing (PT), and method validation studies. Collaborate with QA officers, senior analysts, and cross-functional teams on non-routine investigations, method improvements, and regulatory reporting. Maintain detailed electronic bench sheets and logbooks in compliance with SOPs.

Key Competencies Analytical Chemistry Expertise Proven metal analysis in environmental matrices Sample digestion (EPA 200.7, 200.8, 245.1, etc.) Data validation and result interpretation Instrumentation Skills Direct hands-on experience or formal training with: ICP-OES / ICP-MS GFAA / CVAAS / CVAFS Colorimetric methods (spectrophotometry) Block digestors and wet-chemistry prep Quality Assurance/Control QA/QC compliance with EPA and NELAC guidelines Calibration, blanks, LCS, spikes, duplicates Internal audit participation Strict SOP adherence LIMS Proficiency Data entry, result reporting, issue flagging Data integrity and traceability Collaboration & Adaptability Teamwork with QA staff and peers Support for ad-hoc projects and investigations Clear communication of anomalies and process improvements Ideal Background / Experience Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Analytical Chemistry, or related discipline. Experience: 1-3+ years in an accredited environmental laboratory with primary focus on metals analysis. Certifications (preferred): NELAC/TNI assessor training, EPA method-specific certifications, LIMS user certification.