Clinical Mass Spectrometry Analyst

Air Force Research Laboratory; Dayton (OH); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Air Force Research Laboratory is seeking an analytical chemist to develop and validate LC-MS methods, analyze clinical specimens, and ensure quality and regulatory compliance. The role involves maintenance and troubleshooting of MS equipment and participation in SOPs and quality management activities.

Applicants should be U.S. citizens, able to obtain necessary clearances, and prepared for possible travel. Telework may be permitted per agency policy.

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Selective Service registration for males.
• Ability to obtain required federal clearance.
• Travel may be required.
• Minimum one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.

Responsibilities

• Develops, validates, and implements complex analytical methods using LC-MS.
• Performs routine and advanced analysis of clinical specimens.
• Troubleshoots, maintains, and calibrates mass spectrometry and related equipment.
• Ensures compliance with CLIA, CLSI, CAP accreditation standards.
• Authors and reviews SOPs and participates in quality management system activities.

Skills

LC-MS instrumentation

Analytical method development

Data management

Job description

This announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11:45 PM EST, 27 July 2026.

Position duties

• Develops, validates, and implements complex analytical methods using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) instrumentation.
• Performs routine and advanced analysis of clinical specimens, ensuring accuracy and precision of results.
• Conducts troubleshooting, maintenance, and calibration of mass spectrometry and associated laboratory equipment.
• Adheres to and promotes compliance with clinical laboratory accreditation standards such as CLIA, CLSI, and CAP.
• Authors and reviews standard operating procedures (SOPs) and participates in quality management system activities.

Telework

Yes, this position is eligible for situational telework; as determined by agency policy.

Eligible for a Referral Bonus?

No

Required Qualifications

• United States Citizenship.
• Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov.
• Ability to obtain and maintain the appropriate clearance for the position.
• This position may require travel.
• For educational requirements please see the following for more information:
• https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0600/clinical-laboratory-science-series-0644/
• https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/chemistry-series-1320/
• Applicants must have at least one (1) year or 52 weeks of specialized experience equivalent to next lower grade level in the Federal service or equivalent in an alternate pay system.

Desired Qualifications

• Deep understanding of liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry instrumentation operation and method development.
• Familiarity with clinical laboratory accreditation standards and regulations (CLIA, CLSI, CAP, etc.) and quality management systems.
• Proficient with information technology, data management, and basic statistical methods.