From Extractor to Senior Analyst: Developing a Career at Tetra Tech Laboratories

What is your role? What do you do day-to-day?

I’m a GC-MS Analyst (Gas Chromatography-mass spectrometry) at Tetra Tech, where I am part of a team responsible for analysing environmental samples.

I oversee sample preparation and analysis, review and interpret complex data, troubleshoot instrumentation issues and ensure all results meet strict quality and accreditation standards. 

What have you learned at Tetra Tech?

I joined straight after graduation as an Extraction Chemist and have progressed through to Senior Analyst, so I’ve had the opportunity to understand every stage of the analytical process.

Over the years, I’ve developed strong technical expertise in GC-MS and GC-MS/MS analysis, data interpretation and troubleshooting. I’ve also learned leadership skills, how to manage a team, prioritise workloads, maintain high-quality standards and support others in developing their careers.

How has your role changed and how has your career progressed since joining Tetra Tech?

My role has evolved significantly. I started in sample extraction, building a solid foundation in preparation techniques and laboratory processes. As I gained experience, I moved into Analyst roles, taking on more responsibility for data review, instrument maintenance, problem solving and mentoring. 

The progression has been both technical and managerial, and it’s rewarding to see how far I’ve come since joining as a graduate.

What’s the culture and people like at Tetra Tech?

The culture is supportive and collaborative. I’ve been able to progress because experienced colleagues invested time in developing my skills, and I now try to do the same for my team.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

What I enjoy most is problem-solving. GC-MS analysis can present complex technical challenges, whether it’s investigating unusual chromatograms, resolving instrument faults or identifying the root cause of unexpected results.  

As well as that, no two days are the same, and that constant challenge keeps the role engaging and rewarding.

What challenges did you face? How did you overcome them? Or how did Tetra Tech help you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges early on was mastering complex instrumentation and gaining confidence in decision-making. GC MS and GC-MS/MS systems are sensitive and require a deep understanding to troubleshoot effectively.

I overcame this by building strong fundamentals in extraction and analysis, asking questions, learning from experienced analysts and taking ownership of issues when they arose. Over time, that hands-on experience built both competence and confidence.

How does your role help contribute to a better world? 

The data we generate supports environmental monitoring, regulatory compliance and public health protection. By accurately identifying contaminants in environmental samples, we help ensure water, soil and waste materials are managed safely.

What key advice would you give to someone who was considering joining Tetra Tech?

Take every opportunity to learn, and don’t underestimate the value of starting with the fundamentals. My progression from extractor to Senior Analyst gave me a full understanding of the process, which has been invaluable. If you’re motivated and willing to develop, there are real opportunities to grow.