LCMS Laboratory Chemist

Job Description

Job Description

Job Overview

US Cannalytics is seeking a LCMS Laboratory Chemist who is looking for a challenging position in an independent, state-licensed testing laboratory serving the Michigan cannabis market. The successful candidate will be reliable, exhibit strong attention to detail, and thrive in a fast-paced, production-driven laboratory environment.

This is a full-time, in-lab position based in Warren, MI.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

• Possess a valid driver's license.
• Be at least 21 years old.
• Ability to meet Michigan State cannabis industry requirements. 
• Have 2 years of full-time, post-academic, LCMS experience.
• Have at minimum, a bachelor's degree in a natural science, to include, but not be limited to, biology, chemistry, or environmental sciences.
• Have strong attention to detail.
• Be able to work collaboratively with co-workers.
• Be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel and Teams.

Preferred:

• Have experience working on an Agilent LCMS within a clinical or toxicology-based laboratory setting, or an agricultural / environmental laboratory performing pesticide residue analysis.
• Have peer leadership experience.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The Laboratory Chemist is responsible and accountable for instrument-specific routine maintenance and troubleshooting, testing methodologies, quality control performance and the safe handling, accurate recording and timely testing of cannabis and cannabis products including but not limited to:

• Ensuring accurate measurement and documentation of all cannabis and cannabis materials, including sample weights/volumes, compliant cannabis tracking and destruction, and completion of supporting laboratory documentation with adherence to Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
• Maintaining current competency, including ongoing training and professional development to understand industry knowledge, recognizing analytical trends and understanding best practices through the consistent review of both internal and external cannabis and cannabis adjacent resources.
• Maintaining full competency within the LCMS test method(s) including sample collection, intake, and homogeneity. Sample preparation across all applicable matrices and reagent preparation, including safe handling, storage, and disposal.
• Running daily performance checks of analytical equipment and method test parameters.
• Running regular instrument cleaning and preventative maintenance for applicable analytical equipment.
• Overseeing and directing Laboratory Assistants and Laboratory Technicians assisting with the LCMS workflow, as directed by Laboratory Management.
• Complying with all state-specified rules and regulations for cannabis licenses, cannabis transport and cannabis testing, as applicable.
• Following organizational policies and procedures for laboratory operations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Conduct, assess, and appropriately record, LCMS test methods (including pesticides and mycotoxins) and instrument performance measures which include:
  • Preparing samples and reagents necessary for maintaining laboratory workflow, as described in precursory job descriptions.
  • Performing daily test methods, pursuant to organizational quality controls and applicable regulatory requirements.
  • Cleaning and maintaining work area and instrument.
  • Performing calibration and preliminary troubleshooting of equipment.
  • Coordinating with external vendors for the timely submission and management of service tickets.
  • Scheduling appropriate preventative maintenance within required intervals.
  • Performing equipment and method verifications, including compliance documentation, as necessary, to support the laboratory.

• Analyze LCMS pesticide and mycotoxin data and submit completed data analysis to the Laboratory Director for review.
• Review and document all test results and quality controls within the laboratory information management system (LIMs), including the conformance of laboratory results as stated above.
• Successfully perform proficiency testing samples, as defined by the testing provider, at intervals compliant with the laboratory's Quality programming and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Assist in internal audit activities for the LCMS workflow, including appropriate documentation of auditing activities as required by standard operating procedures.
• Assist in the development of future laboratory testing methods, if needed.
• Provide recommendations on process improvement or method efficiencies, as identified.
• Assist Laboratory Assistants and Laboratory Technicians with the performance of sample intake and accessioning, and non-analytical test methods (foreign material, water activity, moisture content, etc.), as needed.
• Perform all other tasks and duties as assigned by Management, which may include cannabis sampling and transport.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The characteristics of the work environment described below are representative of those that an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job, with the understanding that the use of personal protection equipment is mandatory to limit exposure to chemicals or other hazards found within a laboratory environment. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• There are frequent contacts and interruptions during the day.
• The work environment MAY expose an employee to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration.
• The noise level in the work environment can be loud.
• Per state requirements for this industry, there are cameras located throughout the laboratory except in restrooms and break rooms.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee:

• Must have the ability to concentrate under pressure and consistently produce accurate work.
• Is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, and use hands.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.
• Must possess the specific vision abilities required by this job which include close vision, color vision and ability to adjust focus.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay Scale: Starting at $30 per hour (Commensurate with experience)

Schedule:

• Monday-Friday
• 8 hour shift
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person