Geochemical PFAS Research

The EPA Environmental Research and Business Support Program has an immediate opening for a full-time Geochemical PFAS Research position with the EPA facility in Ada, OK.

The Groundwater, Watershed, and Ecosystem Restoration Division (GWERD) located in Ada, Oklahoma conducts basic and applied research to understand processes that affect the quality and availability of ground water and to evaluate and develop strategies and technologies to protect ground water resources. Scientists conduct research to evaluate ground water flow and factors influencing the fate and transport of anthropogenic and naturally occurring contaminants in the subsurface. Scientists also conduct research focused on ecosystem processes and manipulations that can be used to achieve restoration goals. Additionally researchers provide technical support to federal and state environmental regulators on issues regarding subsurface contamination, contaminant fluxes to other media (such as surface water and air), and ecosystem restoration.

To support these activities, GWERD laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation for chemical characterization of ground water and surface water. The analytical function of the Division is critical to supporting the research and technical assistance mission of the laboratory. This project involves analytical support for the analysis of water to support research to protect surface water resources, field support for collection of samples from selected streams and reservoirs included in the study, spreadsheet and database support for file organization, and additional project support as needed.

As a team member, you will conduct laboratory experiments, perform lab-based characterization studies of aquifer samples; conduct literature reviews and synthesis, participate in field sample collection and field trip planning; and provide data management and data analysis support for geochemical research projects related to PFAS. You will be split between the laboratory, field, desktop research, and administrative desk duties. Primary duties shall be assisting with laboratory experiments, instrument operation and data collection, literature surveys, input of data into electronic formats, performing quality assurance checks on data, analytical support, and any associated administrative duties such as HASP/QAPP development or revisions. You will assist with geochemical methods, sample analysis, data collection activities, data checking/verification activities, data analysis, and occasional field work. You will assist with preparation for field trips and log in/receipt of samples for processing after field trips, including glassware washing and field equipment decontamination processes at GWERD. Occasional travel to field sites and assistance with sample collection will also be required. You will collect data, verify data, input data, and generate reports.

As a team member, you will maintain careful and accurate records in a laboratory notebook, following the requirements of an approved quality assurance project plan (QAPP), document electronic file contents and locations, and shall make entries as necessary into permanent laboratory instrument logbooks. These notebooks and all other data produced under this order shall be the property of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. You will receive training on basic safety requirements at GWERD before he or she begins work in the laboratory.    

Location: This job will be located EPA’s facility in Ada, OK.

Salary: Selected applicants will become temporary employees of ORAU and will receive an hourly wage of $28.14 for hours worked.

Hours: Full time

Travel: Field travel will be required, including overnight.

Expected start date: The position is full time and expected to begin November 2019. The initial project is through May 14, 2020, with potential options periods.

Working conditions: You will be supervised by a mentor who will provide direction, as well as coach, advice and counsel the student, and review the student contractor’s work. The mentor for this position will be a federal EPA employee. The COR will inform the contractor of specific mentor information at the time of award.     

You will primarily be involve in work in a laboratory setting and may involve exposure to hazardous elements. Limited travel to field sites and assistance with sample collection may also be required. Work will be performed in an office or laboratory setting at the GWERD and at select field sites. During work in the laboratory, you will wear safety glasses, a laboratory coat (provided by GWERD), and closed-toed shoes. Work performed at field sites may require HAZWOPER training, life jackets, hearing protection, safety glasses, and other specialized safety equipment (provided by GWERD) as dictated by the Health and Safety Plan for the field site. The work day will be eight hours Monday through Friday unless otherwise agreed to by you and EPA mentor.