Laboratory Scientist - Clinical Inorganic Unit

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Title: Laboratory Scientist - Clinical Inorganic Unit

$24.30 - $40.95 / Posted Thru: 01-18-25

Location: Lansing, Michigan - Must work and Live in Michigan.

Purpose: This position functions as an entry level laboratory scientist performing a full range of professional laboratory assignments involving the analysis of human specimens for a wide range of heavy metals. This includes specimen preparation, quantitative analysis involving ICP-MSMS; LC-ICP-MS; GC-ICP-MSMS and performing maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment. The laboratory scientist in this position maintains records according to CAP and CLIA regulatory requirements and performs statistical analysis of quality control data to ensure reliability of the analyses performed in the laboratory. This position reviews approved data through the current LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) and assures that accurate data is obtained and reported in a timely manner to the appropriate follow-up programs throughout the state and country in support of public health decisions.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Duty 1 - 50 % of time - Perform the analysis of human specimens for a wide range of heavy metals in support of the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, Public Health Emergency Preparedness, and other cooperative agreements. The analysis of human specimens includes sample preparation, quantitative instrumental analysis, and assuring accurate data is obtained and reported in a timely manner to follow-up programs. This duty is performed according to established procedures, practices, and policies of the section.

• Oversee daily incoming specimen and related test request paperwork.
• Aid in determining priority status of specimen requests.
• Sort, organize, and log batches of specimens into Starlims, the laboratory information system, according to the appropriate procedure.
• Specimen preparation for ICP-MS/MS, LC-ICP-MS/MS, and GC-MS/MS analysis including specimen preparation and extraction.
• Prepare standards, reagent, and QC samples for analysis by ICP-MS/MS, LC-ICP-MS, and GC-ICP-MS/MS.
• Assemble supplies and prepare equipment for the assays following the authorized methods. The equipment used is an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS and ICP-MS/MS), gas chromatography inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (GC-ICP-MS/MS)and liquid chromatography inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LC-ICP-MS/MS).
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot instruments and associated computers.
• Review data from the ICP-MS/MS, LC-ICP-MS/MS, and GC-ICP-MS/MS instruments, specimen request forms and reports for accuracy.
• Perform mathematical computations including statistical analysis of test data and validation studies.
• Review and evaluate the validity of laboratory test results using Quality Control (QC) values specific to the analytical methodology.
• Post accurate results to the specific databases for each of the various specimen types.
• Prepare detailed written reports of laboratory data and results, archiving of laboratory data, and reporting of laboratory results.
• Perform analysis on proficiency testing materials.
• Maintain accurate and detailed up-to-date records of all work performed.
• Maintain competency at the appropriate frequency and according to the accreditation 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.
• Assume responsibility, when assigned, for training and orientation of new hires and students according to established procedures, practices, and policies of the section.

Duty 2 - 15% of time - At the entry level, performs statistical analysis and maintains quality controls statistical data to ensure reliability of results being reported and develops laboratory reports that comply with regulatory requirements; preventive maintenance logs to remain in compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Review instrument calibration, quality control and specimen data in terms of acceptable performance standards.
• Prepare monthly QC charts and documents using NWA statistical software.
• Maintain and evaluate ongoing records of QC results and corresponding statistical data to ensure QC material stays within the established operational windows for each analyte.
• Notify supervisor of all work that does not meet acceptable quality control standards.
• Assist with preparing professional reports including parameters required regulatory bodies.
• Assist with literature review and assimilating ongoing changes to meet regulatory requirements.
• Monitor the stability of the various instruments and analytical methods using the QC data.
• Evaluate QC across time for trends that may indicate problems with the instrument, materials, or operators. Appropriately documents these findings and notifies supervisor of trend.
• Assist with internal audits to determine compliance with regulatory guidelines.
• Maintain accurate records of when competencies are performed and ensures they are conducted in a timely manner.

Duty 3 - 20% of time - The scientist in this position will support the development of laboratory procedures, including support in the design and implementation of method validation studies and the Laboratory Information System. Annually review and update existing laboratory procedures and analytical methods for the unit. Perform evaluations on current and new laboratory instruments and equipment.

• Support the development and assist in performing studies to evaluate and modify current laboratory methods.
• Support the development of laboratory studies involved in methods development, evaluation, and validation.
• Perform the laboratory studies required for methods development, evaluation, and validation.
• Work with other laboratory scientists in the section and division to review, update and write laboratory procedures as necessary.
• Participate and support the implementation and evaluation of new methods, laboratory instrumentation and equipment including the StarLims database system.
• Conduct laboratory studies to develop new laboratory methods utilizing ICP-MSMS, LC-ICP-MS, and GC-MSMS in support of lead poisoning and other programs.
• Analyze laboratory data from new methods development studies ICP-MSMS, LC-ICP-MS, and GC-MSMS in support of lead poisoning and other programs.
• 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 - 10% of time - This position performs duties related to the policies, standards and professionalism of the Bureau of Laboratories

• Attend meeting, seminars, workshops, and conference as related to the Section.
• Review scientific literature, technical bulletins, and government documents for information relevant to the Section and distribute pertinent information to other laboratory personnel.
• Attend annual safety training.

Duty 5 - 5% of time - This position will function as a member of the Michigan Bioterrorism and Chemical Terrorism Public Health response teams as needed.

• Conducts activities to prepare health care professionals and other partners for possible bioterrorism or chemical terrorism incident of event.
• 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.

Other -

• Always represent the best interests of MDHHS and MPHI.
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements:

Education: Possession of a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, microbiology, forensic science, or a related pure or applied science.

Experience: One year of professional experience carrying out a variety of tests, analyses, or production and research activities involving chemical, biochemical, and biological samples, specimens, and products equivalent to a Laboratory Scientist 9. A desire to participate in laboratory support functions in a variety of capacities is desired.

Important Skills and Characteristics:

• Meticulous work habits and good attendance.
• Ability to communicate effectively and maintain favorable relationships with both peers and the public.
• Knowledge of departmental rules, regulations and policies related to the lab environment.
• Advanced level of knowledge of computer application programs for laboratory activities and data management.
• Skilled in the use and care of common laboratory equipment, personal protective equipment, and analytical instrumentation.
• Ability to maintain detailed records and prepare technical reports.
• Ability to prepare written laboratory procedures.
• Advanced level of knowledge of the principles and practice of general, qualitative, quantitative, and inorganic chemistry.
• Knowledge of appropriate health, safety, and environmental regulations to provide for safe laboratory practices.
• Advanced level of knowledge of statistical and quality control techniques.
• Ability to function as an effective team member.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements: Any person working with specimens of human origin from unknown patients is at increased risk of acquiring communicable diseases by bacterial, viral, or other infections and is required to use careful aseptic techniques and proper precautions while working. Laboratory work involves daily contact with biological samples and hazardous chemicals. Accurate and precise laboratory and safety procedures, including universal precautions, must be followed at all times.

Physical Activities: Standing, lifting heavy objects 20-40lbs, carrying, bending, squatting, walking, and using a computer.

Conditions/Hazards: Dust, odor, fumes, chemicals, noise, sharp objects, high electrical voltage, low and high temperatures.

RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE WORK OF OTHERS: No assigned responsibility.

IMPACT ON PROJECTS, SERVICES AND OPERATIONS: This person is a key member of the team. The employee functions as an entry to intermediate laboratory scientist in the analysis of human specimens for heavy metals. The duties involve use and maintenance of ICP-MSMS, LC-ICP-MS, and GC-MSMS instrumentation.

REQUIRED COMMUNICATION

Contact Person/Group	Frequency	Purpose
Supervisor	Daily	Supervision

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

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