Laboratory Scientist - Environmental Inorganic Unit

MPHI is a Michigan-based and nationally engaged, non-profit public health institute. We are a team of teams, process and content experts, dedicated to building A world where tomorrow is healthier than today! Title Laboratory Scientist - Environmental Inorganic Unit Salary $25.03 - $42.18 / Posted Thru: 6/5/2026 Location Lansing, MI - State of Michigan Laboratories Purpose The Laboratory Scientist in this position provides analytical support and carries out a range of professional laboratory assignments involving the analysis of environmental and biological samples for a variety of heavy metals, haloacetic acids, trihalomethanes, persistent and non-persistent organic pollutants, and a wide range of other environmental and industrial contaminants within the Environmental Inorganic Unit. The analysis of environmental and biological samples includes sample preparation, quantitative analysis, performing routine maintenance on laboratory equipment, reviewing, and reporting through the current LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System). The Laboratory Scientist participates in method development and validations, including written laboratory reports, procedures, practices, and policies. Lastly, this position 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 Perform the analysis of environmental and biological samples for a variety of heavy metals, haloacetic acids, trihalomethanes, persistent and non-persistent organic pollutants, and a wide range of other environmental and industrial contaminants in support of the Food Emergency Response Network, Environmental Biomonitoring Programs, Lead Hazard Remediation Program, and other cooperative agreements. Sort, organize, and log batches of samples into Starlims, the laboratory information system, according to the appropriate procedure. Perform sample preparation for environmental, biological, and other types of samples received into the laboratory. Prepare stock standards, spikes, blanks, controls, solutions, and other reagents for analysis by equipment according to the appropriate procedure. Assemble supplies, prepare equipment and analytical instrumentation for the assays following the authorized methods. Review data from instruments, samples request forms and reports for accuracy. Review and evaluate the validity of laboratory test results using Quality Control (QC) values specific to the analytical methodology. Review instrument calibration, quality control and samples analysis data in terms of acceptable performance standards. Post accurate results to the specific databases for each of the various sample types. Perform analysis on proficiency testing materials. Maintain competency at the appropriate frequency and according to the accreditation guidelines. Maintain instrument maintenance logs, balance logs, sample receiving logs, reagent logs, and other laboratory logs/sheets according to established policies and procedures to meet regulatory requirements. 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. Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot instruments and associated computers. Assist in the development of written laboratory procedures for new laboratory methods; review, evaluate and modify current laboratory methods as needed. Perform evaluations on current and new laboratory instruments and equipment. Design and perform studies to evaluate and modify current laboratory methods. Work with other laboratory scientists in the unit, section, and division to review, update and write laboratory procedures as necessary. Perform implementation and evaluation of new laboratory instrumentation and equipment including the StarLims database system. Conduct laboratory studies to develop new laboratory methods utilizing analytical instrument techniques in support of public health decisions. This includes analyzing the data and creating reports to summarize findings. 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. Follows quality assurance procedures established within the section; including the development, preparation, characterization, and implementation of quality control materials, maintaining quality control data charts to ensure reliability of results being reported. Review instrument calibration, quality control and samples analysis data in terms of acceptable performance standards. Prepare monthly QC charts and documents using 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. 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 document these findings and notify supervisor of trend. Perform duties required by the workload of the Unit and related to the policies, standards, and professionalism of the Bureau. Evaluate inventory of supplies and submit requests to order more. Aid in determining priority status of sample/specimen requests. Maintain records and prepare reports and correspondence related to the work of the section and division. Monitor the stability of the various analytical instruments and methods using the QC data. Attend meeting, seminars, workshops, and conferences as related to the section and division. Review scientific literature, technical bulletins, and government documents for technical information relevant to the section and division. Attend annual safety training. Perform skill confirmation tasks in iPassport, the Bureau’s document control software, in a timely fashion. Represent the best interest of MDHHS and MPHI at all times. Other duties as assigned. Education A bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Medical Technology, or another similar field. Experience 1+ years’ experience with ICP-AES, ICP-MSMS, IC, GC-MSMS, GC-MS, and LC-MSMS in a Clinical, Diagnostic, Public Health Laboratory or Environmental Laboratory preferred. Important Skills and Characteristics Meticulous work habits and good attendance. Ability to communicate effectively and maintain favorable relationships with both peers and the public. Ability to be flexible and understand changing priorities. Knowledge of departmental rules, regulations and policies related to the lab environment. 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 carry out laboratory procedures, tests, and analyses required in the work and to interpret results obtained. Ability to be creative and innovative. Ability to maintain detailed records and prepare technical reports related to work. Ability to prepare written laboratory procedures. Knowledge of the principles and practices of general, qualitative, quantitative, and inorganic chemistry. Knowledge of appropriate health, safety, and environmental regulations to provide for safe laboratory practices. Knowledge of statistical and quality control techniques used in the treatment of scientific data. Ability to function as an effective team member. 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, bending, squatting, chopping, and grinding of frozen tissue, using computer. Conditions/Hazards Dust, odor, fumes, chemicals, noise, sharp objects, high electrical voltage, low temperatures. Must have ability to work at a computer and operate normal office equipment. 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. Legal Statements MPHI is an EEO/AA employer that participates with e-verify. For purposes of employment standards, this classification is “Non-Exempt” from overtime provisions of the fair Labor Standards Act. #J-18808-Ljbffr