Description
Ready to advance the future of water!
Quality Assurance Specialist
Grade 10
$79,485 - $127,177
Open: July 28, 2026 ? Close: August 11, 2026
*Starting salary will be between minimum and midpoint in the range. Until renovations are complete you will need to be comfortable traveling between our headquarters and our temporary off-site lab in Manassas, VA.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
The Quality Assurance Specialist (QAS) is an entry-level quality assurance role designed to develop foundational expertise in laboratory quality systems, regulatory compliance, and data integrity within a Virginia Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (VELAP), a Chapter 45 certified wastewater laboratory. This position requires substantial hands-on experience in environmental or wastewater laboratory testing. The QAS is expected to bring strong analytical knowledge, familiarity with Standard Methods, EPA methods, 40 CFR Part 136, and a solid understanding of routine laboratory operations. The QAS supports the daily implementation and maintenance of the laboratory's quality system while learning the regulatory framework governing accredited environmental testing laboratories, including TNI (The NELAC Institute) standards, Virginia's Chapter 45 and applicable local, state, and federal regulations. Working under the guidance of the Quality Assurance Officer (QAO), the QAS assists with quality control (QC) review, documentation, internal audits, and regulatory preparedness activities. This role provides structured training, hands-on experience, and progressive responsibility. Your work will be a critical component of UOSA's Vision to be globally recognized for its leadership in protecting the region's water resources.
WHO YOU ARE
Quality Systems Professional:You have a strong foundation in environmental laboratory operations and understand how quality assurance principles support the generation of accurate, defensible, and compliant analytical data. You are experienced with laboratory testing methods, quality control requirements, and the importance of maintaining data integrity in a regulated environment.
Quality & Compliance Advocate:You are committed to maintaining high standards of quality and regulatory compliance. You understand the importance of following SOPs, accreditation requirements, and QA/QC procedures, and you help ensure the laboratory remains audit-ready and aligned with VELAP, TNI, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
Detail-Oriented Data Reviewer:You possess exceptional attention to detail and a strong analytical mindset. You enjoy reviewing laboratory data, quality control results, and documentation to verify accuracy, identify potential issues, and support corrective actions that strengthen laboratory performance and compliance.
Collaborative Laboratory Partner:You work effectively with laboratory staff, auditors, and stakeholders to promote a culture of quality. You communicate clearly, provide constructive support, and help reinforce consistent adherence to approved methods, quality standards, and laboratory best practices
Requirements
REQUIREMENTS
• A Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biology, or other related field is required; from a four-year college or university. However, any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be acceptable.
• Must have a minimum of three years of experience in an analytical environmental laboratory.
• Must have a strong background in qualitative, quantitative and instrumental analytical chemistry.
• Must be familiar with all analyses performed in the UOSA Laboratory and able to conduct all general laboratory analyses.
- Requires familiarity with basic Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) principles.
- Ability to review laboratory data, QC results, and documentation for accuracy and compliance.
- Ability to learn and apply regulatory requirements related to laboratory operations.
- Assists with the preparation, revision, and maintenance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality documents.
- Communicates effectively in both written and verbal formats.
- Demonstrates strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Works collaboratively and professionally with laboratory staff and auditors.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
- Experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) or other laboratory software is desirable.
- Understanding of basic statistical concepts used to evaluate QC trends is beneficial.
- Able to distinguish colors and odors associated with laboratory testing and analysis.
• Must be able to lift and carry 30 pounds and safely move, connect, and disconnect compressed gas cylinders using the appropriate tools and equipment. Must be able to move and carry heavy packages of liquid and dry chemicals and other laboratory supplies.
• Possession of a vehicle operator's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia is required.
