Job Location: This position will be located at 101 N. Chestnut St., Jefferson City, MO 65101

Why you’ll love this position:

The MSPHL is the public health laboratory for Missouri. It was established in 1906 and provides diverse and comprehensive analytical testing in support of public health and national security by performing specialized and reference 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.

What you’ll do:

• A person selected for this position may be expected to perform any or all of the following tasks:
• Processing, analyzing, and reporting the results of infectious diseases, genetic disorders, bio and chemical terrorism, and environmental contaminants in food and water in support of public health programs.
• Perform a variety of standard chemical, serological, viral, or bacteriological analyses of clinical or environmental samples according to established procedures.
• Perform a variety of examinations for the presence of disease agents or contaminants in clinical or other specimens, such as: feces, urine, blood, sputum, spinal fluid, blood cultures, water samples, environmental samples, foods, and beverages.
• Perform, record, and review routine quality control results to determine the validity, accuracy, or precision of tests performed and ascertain the quality of reagents, chemicals, or media used for analysis.
• Operate state of the art laboratory instrumentation including gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, polymerase chain reaction, electrophoresis, microscopes, gene sequencers, inductively coupled plasma/mass spectrometry, tandem mass spectrometry, microfluidic fluorometer, high pressure liquid chromatography, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, automated nucleic acid amplification, and genetic screening processor.
• Sample accessioning and recordkeeping to insure that all specimens are accounted for, appropriately handled, and properly and completely tested.
• 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.
• Active participation in training seminars, video conferences, planning meetings, presentations and other events both within the laboratory and throughout the state when required or as needed.

All you need for success:

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 occasional weekends or afterhours
• Excellent attention to detail
• Willing to work in a team-focused environment
• Above average written and verbal communication skills

If you have questions about this position please contact:

Alexa Gunter, Laboratory Supervisor at alexa.gunter@health.mo.gov or 573-751-3334

The State of Missouri is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.