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Gc Ms Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

This role is intended for a seasoned professional with extensive hands-on experience operating and leading work on ICP-MS, LC-MS/MS, and/or GC-MS/MS platforms. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a ...

Chem Lab SME

Tullahoma, TN · On-site

$66 - $90/hr

Minimum 10 years of working experience in an analytical chemistry laboratory using multiple analytical instruments (such as HPLC, GC-MS, or ICP-OES). * Experience operating analytical laboratory ...

Minimum 10 years of working experience in an analytical chemistry laboratory using multiple analytical instruments (such as HPLC, GC-MS, or ICP-OES). * Experience operating analytical laboratory ...

Minimum 10 years of working experience in an analytical chemistry laboratory using multiple analytical instruments (such as HPLC, GC-MS, or ICP-OES). * Experience operating analytical laboratory ...

Minimum 10 years of working experience in an analytical chemistry laboratory using multiple analytical instruments (such as HPLC, GC-MS, or ICP-OES). * Experience operating analytical laboratory ...

Minimum 10 years of working experience in an analytical chemistry laboratory using multiple analytical instruments (such as HPLC, GC-MS, or ICP-OES). * Experience operating analytical laboratory ...

Gc Ms Operator information

What does a GC MS operator do?

A GC-MS Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) instruments in laboratory settings. Their main tasks include preparing samples, running analyses, interpreting results, and ensuring the accuracy of data. They also perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on the equipment. GC-MS Operators play a crucial role in quality control, environmental testing, forensics, and research by identifying and quantifying chemical compounds.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a GC MS operator?

To thrive as a GC MS Operator, you need a solid understanding of analytical chemistry, laboratory techniques, and experience with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, often supported by a relevant science degree or technical training. Familiarity with GC-MS instrumentation, data analysis software, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are essential soft skills for ensuring accurate results and collaborating with team members. These competencies are crucial for delivering precise analytical data, maintaining equipment reliability, and supporting laboratory quality standards.

What are common challenges faced by a GC MS operator and how can they be addressed?

GC MS Operators often encounter challenges such as instrument calibration issues, sample contamination, and troubleshooting complex analytical results. Staying organized, following strict sample preparation protocols, and regularly maintaining the instrument can help minimize errors and downtime. Collaborating closely with chemists and laboratory managers also ensures effective problem-solving and continuous learning, making it easier to handle unexpected technical problems and maintain high-quality data output.

What is the difference between Gc Ms Operator vs Gc Ms Analyst?

AspectGc Ms OperatorGc Ms Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications or training in GC-MS operationOften requires additional analytical or laboratory certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates GC-MS equipment in laboratories or industrial settingsAnalyzes data and interprets results in laboratory or research environments
Employer & IndustryUsed in environmental, pharmaceutical, and chemical industriesCommon in research labs, quality control, and environmental agencies
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare to understand operational roles and certificationsFocuses on data analysis and interpretation skills

The main difference is that Gc Ms Operators focus on running and maintaining the equipment, while Gc Ms Analysts interpret the data generated. Both roles require technical knowledge, but Analysts typically have a deeper understanding of data analysis and reporting.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Gc Ms Operator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Gc Ms Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Gc Ms Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution.

Environmental Analytical Chemist, Civil Engineering

Nashville, TN • On-site

Vanderbilt University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago


Vanderbilt University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


The Environmental Analytical Chemist is responsible for carrying out and facilitating advanced chemical analysis of aqueous solutions for environmental pollutants of concern including but not limited to semi-volatile, non-volatile and volatile organic compounds, inorganic constituents (e.g., heavy metals) and water quality parameters (e.g., anions, total organic carbon). The successful applicant provides operational, educational and research support in the laboratory areas related to faculty research and duties, develops and implements instrument-based and wet-chemistry-based analytical procedures, maintains and operates equipment, documents and communicates laboratory policies and ensures compliance with federal quality assurance/quality control requirements (QA-QC).
About the Work Unit:
Vanderbilt's Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) department vision is to be one of the foremost Civil and Environmental Engineering programs in effecting tangible change to resolve problems of critical importance to humanity in the built environment and the natural world through inspired teaching, research and service, and to maintain a culture of leadership within an educational setting that values research innovation and impact. CEE prepares students to be leaders in Civil and Environmental Engineering in an era of rapid evolution of the profession, to perform innovative basic and applied research that will meet critical challenges in infrastructure and natural resources, and provides service to institutions and government agencies that assists in resolving societal problems. The specific research group provides extensive research and support for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Energy, along with other federal agencies and non-federal research sponsors.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:
1. Implement EPA standard methods for analysis of semi-volatile, non-volatile and volatile organic compounds by GC-MS, including sample preparation by solvent exchange or solid phase extraction and meeting all applicable QA-QC requirements.
2. Implement EPA standard methods for inorganic elemental analysis by ICP-MS, ICP-OES and ion chromatography, including sample preparation and meeting all applicable QA-QC requirements.
3. Develop or modify existing methods as necessary for organic and inorganic analyses to account for complex background matrices.
4. Assist with leaching test methods development and implementation.
5. Participate in standard operating procedures (SOPs) and/or sample preparation technique development (including documentation) on an as-needed basis to support faculty and student needs for selected analytical instrumentation.
6. Responsible for the training of students, post docs, and visiting scholars in the proper SOP for selected analytical instrumentation and procedures
7. Report to lab leadership any major instrument, equipment, or process issue. Clearly present the problem and participate with resolving the problem.
8. Support on-going safety culture in the Environmental Engineering Laboratory. Maintaining situational awareness
Supervisory Relationships:
This position does not have line supervisory responsibility. This position reports administratively and functionally to the Environmental Engineering Laboratory Manager.
Education and Certifications:
Bachelor's in chemistry or related field is necessary. Advanced degree (MS or PhD) preferred. Required to maintain all training certifications necessary and deemed appropriate for the position.
Experience and Skills:
1. At least 5 years' experience with one or more of the following instruments: gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS), inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES).
2.Analytical Experience
a. GC-MS (preferred)
b. ICP-MS (preferred)
c. ICP-OES (secondary preferred)
d. Familiar with EPA Standard Methods is preferred
e. Ion Chromatography
f. GC-FID
3. Technical understanding of basic lab procedures, safety culture and compliance requirements is necessary.
4. Analytical and quantitative skills with meticulous attention to detail are necessary.
5. Ability to work collaboratively and independently.
6. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel is necessary.
7. Good written and oral communication skills are necessary.
8. Good interpersonal skills are necessary.
About Us
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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