Instrument Chemist

Key Responsibilities

1. Instrument Operation & Testing

Execute sample analysis using Gas Chromatography (GC) and High-Performance Liquid

Chromatography (HPLC).

Perform trace-level quantification using hyphenated techniques like GC-MS and GC-MS/MS

for residual solvents pesticides or impurities.

Prepare samples using techniques like liquid-liquid extraction Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE)

and headspace sampling.

2. Calibration & Maintenance

Conduct routine calibration of HPLC and GC systems to ensure instrument compliance.

Perform basic maintenance including replacing GC septa liners syringe needles HPLC

columns guard columns and mobile phase filters.

Execute system suitability tests (SST) prior to sample batch execution to verify instrument

performance. 1 2 3 4

3. Data Analysis & Documentation

Process raw chromatographic data using software like Empower Chromeleon or

LabSolutions.

Review peak integrations interpret mass spectra fragments and calculate final

concentrations against standards.

Maintain meticulous documentation of raw data logbooks and analyst worksheets in line

with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).

4. Compliance & Troubleshooting

Investigate Out of Specification (OOS) or Out of Trend (OOT) results under senior

supervision.

Identify system errors like baseline drift pressure fluctuations or ghost peaks and

implement initial corrective actions.

Adhere to safety data integrity and regulatory protocols (such as USFDA MHRA or

NABL/ISO 17025 depending on the industry).

Required Technical Skills

HPLC/GC: Proficiency in standard isocratic and gradient runs injection mechanisms and

standard detectors (UV-Vis PDA FID ECD).

Mass Spectrometry: Understanding of electron ionization (EI) single quad (MS) scanning

and triple quadrupole (MS/MS) Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM) modes.

Software: Experience with chromatography data systems (CDS) and basic mass spec tuning

interfaces.

Method Verification: Competence in assisting senior scientists with method validation and

verification protocols.

Required Skills:

sample preparationchromatographic analysismass spectrometryinstrument calibrationmaintenancedata analysisGLP compliancetroubleshootinganalytical thinkingcommunication