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Title: Laboratory Scientist Specialist - Environmental Organic Unit

$60,507-$88,192, posted thru 5/21/24

Location: Lansing, Michigan - State of Michigan Laboratory

Purpose:

This position functions as an advanced level (specialist) laboratory scientist serving as a senior worker and performing a full range of professional assignments involving the analysis of environmental and biological samples of epidemiological importance for persistent and non-persistent organic pollutants, and various industrial and environmental contaminants. The analysis of biological and environmental samples includes sample preparation, sample extraction and cleanup, qualitative and/or quantitative analytical analysis involving gas chromatography (GC), liquid chromatography (LC), gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS, and GC-MSMS), liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MSMS), and other laboratory methodologies. The incumbent assures that accurate data is obtained and reported in a timely manner through the current laboratory information management system. The Laboratory Scientist participates in methods evaluation, methods development and validation of methods and documentation of laboratory methods in terms of written laboratory procedures, practices, and policies. The Laboratory Scientist maintains accurate and up-to-date records of all work performed as well as prepares reports of laboratory findings.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Duty 1 - 60% of time

General Summary: Perform the analysis of environmental samples, food, water, and various biological matrices for trace quantities of polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), per and polyfluorinated substances (PFASs), chlorinated pesticides, and other environmental and industrial contaminants in support epidemiological and toxicological studies. Review sample data for integrity, accuracy, QC criteria, and report out results. The duty is performed according to established procedures, practices, and policies of the section.

Individual tasks related to the duty:

• • Sort, organize, and log batches of samples into StarLIMS, the laboratory information system, according to the appropriate procedure.
  • Sample preparation for GC-MS, GC-MS/MS, HRMS, and LC-MS/MS analysis including extraction, cleanup, and column chromatography.
  • Data reporting through StarLIMS or other systems.
  • Preparation and aliquoting of analytical standards from stock solutions.
• • Provide in-depth knowledge of various instrument data analysis software, including data acquisition, processing, and report generation.
  • Perform mathematical computations including statistical analysis of test data and validation studies.
  • Recalculate and re-analyze analytical data as necessary.
  • Perform analysis on proficiency testing material.
  • Monitoring and replacement of condensing and instrument gases.
  • Prepare detailed written reports of laboratory data and results, archiving of laboratory data, and reporting of laboratory results.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed up-to-date records of all work performed.
  • Maintain competency at the appropriate frequency and according to the accreditation guidelines.
  • Review sample results for accuracy and ensure all QC requirements are met prior to submission of results.
  • Assure proper disposal of biological and chemical waste generated during the performance of this duty.
  • Follow all laboratory procedures and practices pertaining the universal precautions, laboratory safety, laboratory infection control, laboratory chemical hygiene and the handling of hazardous materials.

• Duty 2 - 20% of time

General Summary: Troubleshoot analytical instrument performance issues. Maintain proper instrument performance through preventive maintenance tasks. Monitor equipment for proper function and maintain records on instrument maintenance. Maintains quality control statistical data to ensure reliability of results being reported.

Individual tasks related to the duty:

• • Troubleshoot instrument performance issues and assist other scientists with instrument problems.
  • Perform preventive maintenance on analytical instrumentation including source/detector maintenance, column/inlet maintenance, vacuum systems upkeep, and general lab cleanliness.
  • Review instrument calibration, quality control and sample analysis data in terms of acceptable performance standards.
  • Prepare QC charts and documents using statistical software.
  • Maintains and evaluates ongoing records of QC results and corresponding statistical data to ensure QC material stays within the established operational windows for each analyte.
  • Notifies supervisor of all work that does not meet acceptable quality control standards.
  • Review literature and assimilate ongoing changes according to regulatory requirements, e.g., AIHA LAP, LLC.
  • Monitor the stability of the various instruments and analytical methods using the QC data.
• • Evaluates QC across time for trends that may indicate problems with the instrument, materials, or operators. Appropriately documents these findings and notifies supervisor of trend.
  • Maintain accurate, detailed, and up-to-date records of all work performed.
  • Monitor analytical instrumentation and equipment for satisfactory performance following the section's QC requirements.
  • Coordinate with outside service vendors when instrument repairs or contracted PMs are required. Act as a point of contact with onsite service vendors while repairs are being made.
  • Ensure adequate inventory of consumable supplies, reagents, and instrument gases to support continued operation of analytical instrumentation.
  • Follow all laboratory procedures and practices pertaining to universal precautions, laboratory safety, laboratory infection control, laboratory chemical hygiene and the handling of hazardous materials.

• Duty 3 - 15% of time

General Summary: Lead and support the development of new laboratory procedures and methods, including support in the design and implementation of method validation studies. Design and implement method validation studies. Annually review and update existing laboratory procedures and analytical methods for the unit and section. Work with other laboratory scientists in the section and division to organize, plan, and perform methods evaluation and modification of current laboratory methods as needed. Perform evaluations on current and new laboratory instruments and equipment. This duty is performed according to established procedures, practices, and policies of the section.

Individual tasks related to the duty:

• Review the scientific literature, technical bulletins and government documents for information related to current and future laboratory procedures and analytical methods developmental activities.
• Design laboratory studies involved in methods development, evaluation, and validation.
• Organize, plan, and perform laboratory studies required for methods development, evaluation, and validation.
• Prepare laboratory reports documenting methods development, methods evaluation, and methods validation activities.
• Participate in the review of methods development, evaluation, and validation studies.
• Train new or less experienced staff in laboratory procedures and analytical methodologies.
• Maintain detailed records of all methods development, evaluation, and validation studies.
• Prepare detailed written laboratory procedures according to established guidelines.
• Assure proper disposal of biological and chemical waste materials generated during the performance of assigned laboratory work.
• Follow all laboratory procedures and practices pertaining to universal precautions, laboratory safety, laboratory infection control, laboratory chemical hygiene, and the handling of hazardous materials.

• Duty 4 - 5% of time

General Summary: 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 represent the best interest of MDHHS/MPHI at all times. This position will function as a member of the Michigan Bioterrorism and Chemical Terrorism Public Health response teams as needed.

Individual tasks related to the duty:

• Review of the scientific literature for technical information.
• Design and perform laboratory studies.
• Prepare reports documenting laboratory findings.
• Review and critique scientific documents for the section including poster presentations, scientific publications, and grant related documents.
• Maintain detailed records of all work performed.
• Follow all laboratory procedures and practices pertaining to universal precautions, laboratory safety, laboratory infection control, laboratory chemical hygiene and the handling of hazardous materials.
• Conduct activities to prepare health care professionals and other partners for possible bioterrorism or chemical terrorism incident of event.
• Assist in the coordination of pre-event or post-event smallpox vaccination program.
• Respond, as necessary, to a possible bioterrorism or chemical terrorism incident or event, to provide stat assistance to health care professionals in investigation and control efforts.
• Understand that possible occupational exposure to smallpox virus or other bio-terror agents could occur.

Qualifications/Requirements:

Education: Advance degree preferred in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology or similar field.

Experience: 5+ years' experience with GC-MS, GC-MSMS, and LC-MS/MS in a Diagnostic, Public Health lab or Environmental Laboratory preferred.

Important Skills and Characteristics: This is a position requiring good communication skills, organization, 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 environmental samples are required to employ "universal precautions" in the laboratory; that is, to treat each sample 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, and the use of computers.

Conditions/Hazards: Dust, odor, fumes, chemicals, noise, etiological agents.

RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE WORK OF OTHERS

No assigned responsibility.

IMPACT ON PROJECTS, SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

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.

REQUIRED COMMUNICATION

Contact Person/Group Frequency Purpose

1. Supervisor daily Reporting
2. Fellow Staff daily Passing on information.

"For purposes of employment standards, this classification is "Exempt" from the overtime provisions of the Fair labor Standards Act"

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