What are your primary job responsibilities?

Contamination analysis via IC, ICP-OES, FTIR, and GCMS. My lab also utilizes UV-Vis and color assessment. I occasionally use SEM-EDS as well. My lab performs a mix of accredited and non-accredited testing. I am responsible for writing reports on my findings to share with customers. 

What is a typical work day-in-your-life like?

There isn't really a typical day. 
I come in and check my email and get settled for the day. Then I tackle whatever is on my plate for the day. Typically, some contamination/failure analysis work using IC and FTIR. I collaborate a lot with the materials engineers in my group as well. 
Occasionally I have hazardous material testing to perform which often uses GCMS, ICP-OES, and UV-Vis. 

How did you find your first job?

Online application

What level of education (Bachelor's, Masters, PhD, etc.) is required to do your job? 

Bachelor's

What is your work schedule like? Do you ever work weekends or nights?

M-F approximately 7:30 to 4:00 (wastewater treatment lab job had rotating weekends and holidays) 

Do you travel for work? If so, in what capacity, and how often?

I do not travel for work. 

What is your work environment like? Do you work mostly with a team or mostly independently? Do you stand, sit, or move most of the day?

I work about 50% in the lab and 50% writing reports and attending other meetings. My team consists of about 10 chemists and materials engineers. We divide the work based on special interests so it is largely independent, but I do rely on the materials engineers for certain tests, and I rely on my senior chemists for training and support. 

What do you like most about your job?

I like that no day is exactly the same and the schedule allows for work-life balance. 

What are some tools or skills that you can't live without? These can be technologies, soft skills, hardware, or anything else you can think of.

Humility. Learning to be okay with making mistakes and being wrong sometimes, and then quickly moving into a state of willingness to grow has helped me tremendously inside and outside of the lab.

Also, I am really good at pouring liquids! My friends always ask for help with their ramen leftovers!! 

What skills, traits, talents do you have that you think make you a good fit for your job?

Being self motivated really helps in a lab where I work mostly independently. It is up to me to manage my time and complete the items on my to do list. 
Willingness to say yes, try new things, and help out is really important. Whether it's helping with a lab tour, planning a team event, or taking on a stretch project it is important to show enthusiasm to help and learn new things. 

What's your best productivity trick?

Breaks are your friend! If you feel like you're hitting a wall, give yourself a break (and probably a snack). The problem will almost always seem easier when you return. 

What's the best career advice you've ever received? What career advice would you give to someone starting out in your field?

Don't get stuck in a spiral questioning whether something is the right decision or not. Sometimes, you just have to take the leap of faith.

Also, if it is the best decision for you, then it is the best decision for everyone. Don't worry about upsetting your boss or your team. When it is time for you to move on, it will best serve everyone. 

How do you build community in your career field? Are you part of any professional organizations

Internal company employee resource groups, keeping in contact with former peers and asking those peers for contacts! Don't be afraid to reach out. Even if time has passed, most people are willing to have a conversation about their own careers and try to help you with yours. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time at the University of Minnesota?

I have really fond memories of spending late nights in the dining hall with my roommates and neighbors. Truly the best part of college is being surrounded by friends and just living life alongside each other!