Data Quality Specialist – Entry/Mid Level (Hybrid)

The role – what you’ll do 

Barr is seeking a data quality specialist to join one of our Barr offices. In this hybrid role, you will support the Assessment and Remediation business unit. The person in this position will work on multidisciplinary project teams and support data quality practices from planning through reporting for a range of environmental and analytical data. Project responsibilities will include working with the project teams to evaluate laboratory capabilities and provide recommendations to project teams; prepare cost estimates for data collection (sampling, analysis, data evaluation and validation, management and reporting); provide analytical sampling advice to project teams; coordinate laboratory services; order sample kits; perform validation and assessment of environmental data; and perform other duties as assigned by the company. Assignments will also include technical writing and preparation of sampling and analysis plans, quality assurance project plans and other quality assurance/quality control documents and data summary reports.

The ideal candidate is a clear and confident communicator who thrives in both collaborative and independent work environments. They are adaptable, organized, and proactive, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills grounded in scientific reasoning and technical expertise. They demonstrate a high level of attention to detail and a strong commitment to data integrity, helping ensure accuracy and completeness when managing large environmental datasets. For more experienced candidates, leadership, mentoring, and the ability to build strong client relationships are also important. Above all, they value teamwork, quality, and integrity while effectively managing multiple commitments and delivering impactful environmental solutions.

Your impact – key responsibilities 

• Technical knowledge: apply scientific, analytical, and environmental data knowledge to evaluate laboratory capabilities, review analytical methods, and help ensure data integrity throughout sampling, analysis, validation, and reporting phases.

• Project support: support multidisciplinary project teams by preparing cost estimates for sampling and analytical efforts, coordinating laboratory services, ordering sample kits, and confirming that data collection and validation tasks align with project needs, timelines, and client specifications.

• Problem solving: use analytical skills and knowledge of environmental chemistry, laboratory methods (e.g., EPA, Standard Methods), and quality systems to identify data gaps, troubleshoot discrepancies, and provide practical solutions that uphold data quality and project objectives.

• Communication: deliver clear, concise updates to project managers, laboratory partners, and internal stakeholders. Provide guidance on sampling strategies, analytical considerations, and data usability to support informed project decisions.

• Interpersonal savvy: work effectively with various stakeholders to ensure data quality and project success.

About the opportunity 

• Hybrid: a hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position can be based out of Barr’s Minneapolis, Minnesota; Ann Arbor, Michigan; Duluth, Minnesota; Grand Rapids, Michigan; Hibbing, Minnesota; Jefferson City, Missouri; or Salt Lake City, Utah, offices. 

About you – required core competencies  

• Education: bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, or microbiology .

• Experience: 2 years of experience working with laboratory data and quality systems.

• Knowledge of analytical methods (US EPA, Standard Methods, etc.) and data evaluation and validation procedures.

• Strong math and science skills, including knowledge of environmental chemistry.

• Driver’s license: possession of a valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.

Helpful additional experience (not required) 

• 5 years working at an environmental laboratory as an analyst, manager, or quality control coordinator.

• Knowledge of statistics .

• Knowledge of state and federal environmental regulations.

Compensation:

The anticipated base salary range for this position is $65,000–$80,000 per year. This position is classified as exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. Barr has a “no retained earnings” model and distributes all its profit to our employees through our bonus plan and ESOP.

#LI-Hybrid  #Handshake

Benefits - what we offer

We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee benefits - including some unique offerings not found at other companies. At Barr, we also believe that learning doesn't stop when you get your degree, which is why we provide coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities to foster professional development at every stage of your career.

• Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care

• Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock

• Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders

• Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities

• Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave

• Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

Please note that benefits eligibility is determined and may change based on part-time, reduced-time, or full-time status.

About us - why choose Barr

At Barr, you'll join a community of engineers, scientists, and professionals who will help you achieve your ambitions and build a meaningful, rewarding career. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients who value Barr's tailored solutions and commitment to exceptional service.

As part of our employee-owned firm, you'll contribute to a culture of commitment and camaraderie where staff can thrive as professionals. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and believe an inclusive workplace is critical to our success.

To learn more about Barr's culture and values, visit: https://www.barr.com/Careers/Our-culture

Open positions at Barr Engineering Co. do not have application deadlines. Barr Engineering Co. is an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.