Laboratory Scientist - Clinical Organic Unit

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Title: Laboratory Scientist - Clinical Organic Unit

$24.30 - $40.95 / Posted Thru: 2/28/2025

Location: Lansing, MI - State of Michigan Laboratory

Purpose: This position functions as laboratory scientist providing analytical support for the Clinical Chemistry (CC) Section which analyzes human, environmental and biological specimens of epidemiological importance for persistent and non-persistent organic pollutants and a wide range of other environmental and industrial contaminants. The analysis of human and biological specimens includes preparation, extraction and cleanup, qualitative and/or quantitative analysis involving gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS and GC-MS/MS), liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and other laboratory methodologies.

• Perform analysis of human specimens and various biological matrices for trace quantities of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), pesticides, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), controlled substances, and other organic chemicals and environmental contaminants to support biomonitoring and surveillance projects, and public health emergency preparedness activities. The analysis includes sample preparation, quantitative instrumental analysis, assuring accurate data is obtained, and reported in a timely manner. This duty is performed according to established procedures, practices, and policies of the section.
• Ensure acceptability and quality assurance of specimens, samples, and testing materials.
• Prepare calibration standards, QC materials, mobile phase, and other reagents for PCBs, PFAS, and other testing performed in Clinical Chemistry.
• Sample preparation for GC or LC system (coupled with: MS, MS/MS, QTOF, or HRMS) analyses including extraction, cleanup, and column chromatography.
• Analyze biological specimens and other samples for organic compounds of epidemiological importance by HPLC-MS/MS, GC-MS, GC-MSMS, Chemistry Analyzer, or LC-QTOF.
• Review, upload, and report results for the various analyses performed, including ensuring all QA/QC requirements and documentation are met prior to submission of results.
• Ensure proper disposal of testing and specimen materials, including updating sample tracking and disposal logs.
• Always follow established procedures and policies.
• Using established procedures, practices, and policies of the section, assist in development and validation of new laboratory methods and procedures. Evaluate review, modify, and update existing laboratory methods on current and new laboratory instruments as assigned.
• Participate in the preparation and analysis of quality control materials, reference materials, and other method validation studies.
• Participate in the design, planning, and execution of method evaluation and validation.
• Process and enter QC data into QC charts during characterizations to establish acceptance ranges and traceability.
• Maintain detailed records of all methods development, evaluation, and validation studies.
• Utilize the electronic document control for review, skill confirmation, and editing of standard operating procedures.
• Troubleshoot analytical instrument performance issues. Maintain proper instrument performance through preventative maintenance tasks. Monitor equipment for proper function and maintain records of instrument maintenance.
• Troubleshoot instrument performance issues and work with senior scientists and management to resolve instrument problems.
• Perform preventative maintenance on analytical instrumentation and complete all records of instrument maintenance activities.
• Monitor analytical instrumentation and equipment for satisfactory performance following all written QA/QC requirements.
• Perform work on special projects within the section and division as assigned.
• Maintain a positive, strong, credible, professional, and interpersonal relationship with all parties relevant to MDHHS/MPHI projects and always represent the best interest of MDHHS/MPHI.
• Review scientific literature for technical information
• Prepare reports and document findings, present at internal meetings, conferences, or virtual meetings
• Other duties as assigned.

Education: A minimum of a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, microbiology, or similar field.

Experience: 0-3+ years laboratory experience related to analytical chemistry analyses and activities involving clinical specimens and environmental samples. Experience with GC-MS, and LC-MS/MS in a Clinical, Diagnostic, Public Health lab or Environmental Laboratory preferred.

Important Skills and Characteristics:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills with focused attention to detail, accuracy and efficiency.
• Personal integrity, dedication, creativity, flexibility, initiative, and the ability to provide the program with knowledgeable resources.
• Ability to work as a team member is a must.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:An employee working with specimens of human origin is required to employ "universal precautions" in the laboratory; that is, to treat each specimen as if it were capable of disease transmission and to use personal protection devices such as gloves, safety glasses, and lab coats to prevent contamination.

Physical Activities: Standing, lifting, carrying, kneeling, bending, squatting, keyboard entry- daily.

Conditions/Hazards: Dust, odor, fumes, chemicals, noise- daily.

Must have ability to work at a computer and operate normal office equipment. Job involves keyboarding and viewing a CRT or VDT screen up to 100% of the time.

IMPACT ON PROJECTS, SERVICES AND OPERATIONS: This position has a direct impact on the quality of services provided by MPHI to MDHHS. This person is a key member of the team. This person also ensures that the needs of the laboratory staff and external clients are met in a timely manner and maintains professional relationships.

For purposes of employment standards, this classification is "Non-Exempt" from overtime provisions of the fair Labor Standards Act.

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