LABORATORY SPECIALIST II

College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) Analytical Services

The University of Missouri Agricultural Experiment Station Chemical Laboratories (ESCL) is seeking a Laboratory Specialist II to support analytical testing of food, feed, and biological samples. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented professional who enjoys hands-on laboratory work and contributing to scientific research and analysis.

Position Overview

As a Laboratory Specialist II, you will develop, standardize, and perform laboratory analyses using advanced instrumentation and established scientific methods. You'll work as part of a collaborative analytical team to ensure accurate and timely results supporting research and service missions.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory analyses using established procedures and Official Methods of Analysis
• Operate and maintain complex instrumentation, including:
  • HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)
  • GLC (Gas-Liquid Chromatography)
  • Nitrogen Analyzer
• Conduct routine and technical project tasks as assigned
• Prepare technical reports and assist senior staff with data interpretation
• Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment
• Assist with inventory management to support ongoing laboratory operations
• Analyze data and apply standard practices to solve routine problems
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and efficiency
• Support laboratory operations, including occasional weekend rotation to monitor equipment and sample preparation
• Collaborate with team members and potentially mentor or assist other staff
• As with all positions, involvement with other duties and responsibilities may be expected in order to support the mission and purpose of the University of Missouri.
  

Monday - Friday 7:30 - 4:30 p.m. Occasional overtime and weekend work as required.

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

• Experience working in an analytical laboratory environment
• Familiarity with chromatography techniques (HPLC, GLC)
• Strong attention to detail and data accuracy
• Ability to follow standardized procedures and meet deadlines
• Experience with laboratory instrumentation maintenance and troubleshooting

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $19.25 - $27.40 hourly.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: GGS-008
University Title: RESEARCH SPECIALIST II

To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

MU Application, Resume/CV, cover letter, and contact information for references will be required for hire.

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.