Laboratory Scientist
State of Missouri Jefferson City, Missouri, United States
- Location: Jefferson City, Missouri, United States
- Categories: Sciences and Laboratory
- Job Type: Full Time
- Posted: Jul 19, 2025
Job Description:
Laboratory Scientist
Description
Job Location: This position will be located at 101 N. Chestnut, Jefferson City, MO 65101.Why you’ll love this position:
The MSPHL was established in 1906 and provides diverse and comprehensive analytical testing in support of public health and national security by performing specialized testing through partnerships with the CDC, EPA, FDA, USDA, FBI, and HS. Annually, over seven million tests are performed by the MSPHL in compliance with accrediting/certifying bodies including CLIA, EPA, FDA, AIHA (ISO 17025), and Perry Johnson (ISO 17025). This position requires a candidate who can work well within a team to accomplish the unit’s goals for producing high quality test results that meet defined turnaround times. Previous analytical experience is not required. Extensive training will be provided by laboratory staff. Join a great team that is dedicated to promoting and protecting public health.
- Processing, analyzing, and reporting the results of chemical terrorism and environmental contaminants in food and water in support of public health programs.
- Perform a variety of standard chemical analyses of clinical or environmental samples according to established procedures.
- Perform a variety of examinations for the presence of contaminants in clinical or other specimens, such as: urine, blood, serum, plasma, water samples, environmental samples, foods, beverages, and cannabis samples.
- Perform, record, and review routine quality control results to determine the validity, accuracy, or precision of tests performed and ascertain the quality of reagents and chemicals used for analysis.
- Sample accessioning and recordkeeping to insure that all specimens are accounted for, appropriately handled, and properly and completely tested.
- Operate state of the art laboratory instrumentation including gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma/mass spectrometry, tandem mass spectrometry, high pressure liquid chromatography, ion chromatography, liquid scintillation counting, and gamma spectrometry.
- Record and report results; checks reports for accuracy, and maintains confidentiality.
- Conduct laboratory testing in compliance with laboratory and regulatory quality assurance and control standards.
- Operate state of the art laboratory instrumentation including gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma/mass spectrometry, tandem mass spectrometry, high pressure liquid chromatography, ion chromatography, liquid scintillation counting, and gamma spectrometry.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Candidate must possess a Bachelor’s degree or higher in a scientific field (Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Laboratory Technology, etc. are preferred.)
- Ability to work afterhours occasionally
- Excellent attention to detail
- Willing to work in a team-focused environment
- Above average written and verbal communication skills
Lack of post-secondary education will not be used as the sole basis denying consideration to any applicant.
The State of Missouri offers an excellent benefits package that includes a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Your total compensation is more than the dollars you receive in your paycheck. To help demonstrate the value of working for the State of Missouri, we have created an interactive Total Compensation Calculator. This tool provides a comprehensive view of benefits and more that are offered to prospective employees. The Total Compensation Calculator and other applicant resources can be found here .
Amber Smith, Laboratory Supervisor at amber.smith@health.mo.gov or 573-751-3334.