Early-Career Research Scientist/Engineer- Aerosol & Environmental

ERG is a research and consulting firm that provides a wide range of support to federal, state, and commercial clients. ERG offers multidisciplinary teams with nationally recognized skills in engineering, science, economics, public health, informational technology, and communications. We hire people with the best minds and then provide them with a vibrant and flexible environment in which to develop their careers. The qualified individual must be highly motivated with the skills to prioritize, perform, and communicate effectively in a fast-paced environment. 

ERG is seeking early-career scientists and engineers to support a diverse portfolio of laboratory, field, and applied research projects for the U.S. EPA. The successful candidate will have opportunities to contribute to aerobiology and aerosol research—including studies involving biological aerosols—while also supporting broader work in air quality and environmental measurements, microbiology, experimental systems, instrumentation, laboratory testing, and data analysis.

This position is well suited for someone with broad scientific or engineering interests who enjoys hands-on work and is eager to gain experience across multiple technical areas. Assignments may include designing and conducting laboratory experiments; operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting scientific instrumentation; collecting and analyzing samples and data; supporting field studies; and developing or adapting experimental systems.

Candidates are not expected to have experience in every area. We are seeking individuals with strong technical fundamentals, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to learn quickly and contribute across a variety of scientific projects. Multiple positions may be filled.

Job Description:

• Support aerosol and aerobiology research, including the generation, sampling, characterization, and evaluation of biological and chemical aerosols in controlled experimental environments
• Contribute to laboratory, field, and applied research projects addressing environmental and public health questions
• Assist with the design, setup, execution, and documentation of scientific experiments and testing programs
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot scientific instruments, aerosol measurement systems, sampling equipment, and experimental test systems
• Support the generation, collection, processing, and characterization of biological, chemical, and environmental samples, as required by project needs
• Perform laboratory activities that may include aerosol generation and measurement, microbiological techniques, environmental sampling, and chemical or physical analyses
• Assist with the design, development, integration, and testing of experimental hardware, instrumentation, and innovative research systems
• Collect, manage, analyze, interpret, and visualize experimental and environmental data
• Troubleshoot, maintain, modify, and repair laboratory and field equipment
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records, project documentation, and data files
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, presentations, procedures, protocols, and other project deliverables
• Support the implementation of Quality Assurance Project Plans (QAPPs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) activities
• Follow all applicable laboratory, field, biosafety, health, and safety procedures
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers on a variety of research and technical assignments

Qualifications and Skills:

Required:

• B.S. degree in Environmental, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Microbiology, Environmental Science, or a related field
• 0-4 years of professional experience
• Hands-on experience in a laboratory, technical setting, or science/engineering project (academic or professional)
• Demonstrated analytical, mechanical, and problem-solving skills
• Understanding of mechanical or electrical systems
• Ability to pass background checks and initial and random drug screenings

Desired:

• Experience with biosafety practices and procedures
• Experience working in a BSL2 and/or aerosol laboratory environment
• Hands-on experience with aerosol generation, collection, and sample processing
• Experience developing instrumentation and/or the application of COTS equipment to test beds
• Demonstrated ability to manage, analyze and interpret aerosol data.
• Experience preparing microbiological media
• Experience in aseptic technique, serial dilutions, and agar plating assays
• Knowledgeable of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) principles
• Experience in implementation of QA/QC for aerosol testing and microbiological processes

ERG offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits, including health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, educational benefits, FSAs, a generous 401k plan, profit sharing, an EAP, 11-20 paid vacation days per year, 10 paid holidays per year, 56 hours or more of sick leave (based on the state you work in) per year (pro-rated for part-time) and more. The salary range for all positions depends on the years and type of experience.     ERG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable EEOC regulations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual preference, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.       Please be aware, the only authentic corporate domain for ERG is https://www.erg.com.  ERG may, on occasion, screen applicants via telephone or video interviews via Skype, Teams, GoToMeeting, or another type of video platform. However, any candidate extended a job offer might be asked to meet in person with an ERG employee before providing confidential personal information associated with new employment.     If you’re a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access ERG’s online application process as a result of your disability. To request accommodation, please contact Human Resources via email at Resumes-Lex@erg.com or call (781) 674-7293.     ERG fosters a friendly, flexible work environment. ERGers are dedicated to serving clients who are committed to making the world a better place. We promote and recognize principles of fairness and respect in the work we do, the partnerships we foster, and the culture we value both within and outside of our organization.