Lab Engineer Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Sampling & ISO 17025 Implementation

Job description

Location: 3 Ang Mo Kio Street 62, #04-09/08, , Singapore

Reporting To: Laboratory Manager / Technical Director

Employment Type: Full-time

Experience Level: Mid-Level to Senior (with proven experience in setting up QA/QC systems and ISO 17025 compliance)

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Lab Engineer to lead on-site indoor air quality (IAQ) sampling operations and spearhead the establishment of an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 compliant Quality Management System (QMS) for our environmental testing services.

This role combines technical expertise in IAQ field sampling with strong knowledge of accreditation standards, measurement uncertainty, method validation, and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for planning, executing, and documenting IAQ sampling activities across client sites in Singapore, while simultaneously building and implementing a robust QMS from the ground up to achieve full ISO 17025 accreditation.

The position requires hands-on technical ability, excellent documentation skills, and the capability to interpret and apply international standards such as SS 554:2023, ASHRAE 62.1, NEA IAQ Guidelines, and WHO Air Quality Guidelines.

This is a critical role in ensuring the accuracy, traceability, and credibility of our IAQ data and services.

Key Responsibilities

On-Site IAQ Sampling & Data Collection

Conduct on-site environmental sampling for key IAQ parameters including:

• various gases

Use and maintain calibrated IAQ instruments such as:

• Air sampling pumps
• Gas monitors/detectors (e.g., CO, CO₂, formaldehyde)
• Particle counters (PM2.5, RSP)
• Thermohygrometers, anemometers

Ensure all sampling procedures comply with relevant standards:

• SS 554:2023

• NEA IAQ Guidelines

• ASHRAE 62.1

• WHO Air Quality Guidelines (2021)

• EPA TO-11A (for carbonyls like formaldehyde)

• ISO mold and bacteria — if applicable)

• Document sampling conditions, equipment settings, and site-specific factors that may influence results.
  Collect samples using appropriate methods (e.g., active/passive sampling, sorbent tubes, filters).
  
  

ISO/IEC 17025:2017 QMS Development & Implementation

• Lead the setup and implementation of a fully compliant ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Quality Management System.
  
  

• Develop and document:

• Quality Manual

• Procedures (e.g., sampling, calibration, record control, non-conformance)

• Work instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs)

• Internal audit programs

• Management review processes

• Ensure alignment with SAC-SINGLAS Technical Guides and other regional requirements.
  
  

• Manage the method validation process for IAQ sampling methods (even though testing is not done in-house).
  
  

• Implement measurement uncertainty evaluation for sampling processes, referencing:

• SAC-SINGLAS Technical Guide 1 & 2

• Principles of uncertainty in sampling (e.g., representativeness, environmental variability)

• Oversee equipment calibration and performance verification per SAC-SINGLAS ENV 002 guidelines.
  Prepare documentation for external assessment by accreditation body (e.g., SINGLAS).
  
  

Reporting, Client Interaction & Technical Documentation

• Compile, analyze, and interpret sampling data into professional technical reports for clients.
  
  
• Present findings clearly and accurately, highlighting compliance with benchmarks (e.g., NEA, SS 554, ASHRAE).
  
  
• Interact directly with clients to understand their needs, explain sampling protocols, and address queries.
  
  
• Maintain accurate records of all sampling activities, instrument logs, calibration certificates, and field notes.
  Ensure traceability of all data and adherence to good laboratory practices (GLP) even in field-based operations.
  
  

Compliance & Continuous Improvement

• Stay updated with local and international IAQ standards and regulations.
  
  
• Participate in internal audits and management reviews.
  
  
• Support continual improvement of sampling techniques, documentation, and QMS processes.
  
  

Qualifications & Experience

Educational Background

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
  
  
• Preference for candidates with postgraduate qualifications or certifications in indoor air quality, industrial hygiene, or analytical chemistry.
  
  

Required Experience

• Minimum 3–5 years of hands-on experience in environmental or indoor air quality sampling, preferably in a regulated or compliance-driven environment.
  
  
• Proven experience in setting up or maintaining ISO/IEC 17025:2017 compliant laboratories, or working under such frameworks.
  
  
• Strong understanding of measurement uncertainty principles and method validation for sampling procedures.
  
  
• Familiarity with SAC-SINGLAS Technical Notes and Guides, especially:
• C&B and ENV 001, 002
• Technical Guide 1 & 2 (Measurement Uncertainty)
• Experience with field sampling tools and instrumentation used in IAQ assessments.
  
  

Technical Skills

• Proficient in using:
• Air sampling pumps
• Gas detectors (CO, CO₂, VOCs, formaldehyde)
• Particle monitors (PM2.5, RSP)
• Data loggers and environmental sensors
• Knowledge of sampling train setup, filter handling, sorbent tube usage, and sample preservation.
  
  
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  
  
• Excellent attention to detail and documentation practices.
  
  

Soft Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for client interaction.
  
  
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
  
  
• Organized, meticulous, and committed to quality and compliance.
  
  

Working Conditions

• Frequent travel to client sites across Singapore for on-site sampling.
  
  
• Work in various indoor environments (offices, commercial buildings, residential spaces, etc.).
  
  
• Must be able to carry and operate sampling equipment.
  
  
• Flexible availability for weekend or evening sampling when required.
  
  

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to build a world-class ISO 17025-accredited IAQ service from the ground up.
  
  
• Be part of a growing environmental health and safety practice in Singapore.
  
  
• Work with cutting-edge IAQ technologies and contribute to healthier indoor environments.
  
  
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
  
  

Required Skill Profession

Other General