Recruiter's Glossary

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GC-MS

Term from Laboratory Work industry explained for recruiters

GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) is an important analytical tool used in laboratories to identify and measure different substances in samples. Think of it as a high-tech detective tool that separates and identifies individual components in complex mixtures. It's commonly used in drug testing, environmental analysis, food safety, and forensic science. When you see this on a resume, it means the candidate has experience with sophisticated laboratory equipment and analytical testing. It's like having experience with two connected machines: one that separates materials (GC) and another that identifies them (MS).

Examples in Resumes

Performed routine sample analysis using GC-MS techniques for environmental contaminants

Maintained and operated GC-MS and Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry systems for drug testing laboratory

Led method development team for new GC/MS analytical procedures in food safety testing

Typical job title: "Laboratory Analysts"

Also try searching for:

Analytical Chemist Laboratory Technician Mass Spectrometry Specialist GC-MS Operator Forensic Scientist Quality Control Analyst Research Associate

Where to Find Laboratory Analysts

Professional Organizations

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Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle method development for a new type of sample analysis?

Expected Answer: A senior analyst should discuss systematic approach to developing new methods, including sample preparation, choosing appropriate analytical conditions, validation procedures, and documentation requirements.

Q: How do you ensure quality control in a GC-MS laboratory?

Expected Answer: Should explain quality control measures like running standards, blank samples, maintaining calibration curves, documentation procedures, and troubleshooting instrument issues.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What steps do you take when maintaining a GC-MS instrument?

Expected Answer: Should describe routine maintenance procedures like changing septa, liners, cleaning ion source, tuning the instrument, and keeping maintenance logs.

Q: How do you handle sample preparation for GC-MS analysis?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic sample preparation steps including extraction, filtration, concentration, and ensuring sample stability before analysis.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when working with laboratory samples?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic lab safety, proper handling of chemicals, use of personal protective equipment, and following standard operating procedures.

Q: How do you document your laboratory work?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic lab documentation practices including maintaining lab notebooks, recording instrument parameters, and following data storage procedures.