Laboratory Technician II Analytical Chemistry

Lighthouse Lab Services; Oscoda Township (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

Lighthouse Lab Services is partnering with a growing environmental testing laboratory in Oscoda, Michigan, seeking an experienced Laboratory Technician II to serve as a senior technical resource within the Analytical Chemistry Laboratory.

This role covers end‑to‑end analysis of environmental matrices, operation of advanced instrumentation, data validation, and rigorous adherence to EPA and DoD‑ELAP quality standards. Strong data integrity and independent troubleshooting are essential.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or higher in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science or related field is required.
• 3–5 years of laboratory experience in analytical chemistry or environmental testing is required.
• PFAS testing laboratory experience is strongly preferred.
• Water testing and environmental sample analysis experience is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain advanced analytical instrumentation (LC-MS/MS, ICP-MS, GC-MS) and troubleshoot issues with minimal supervision.
• Interpret chromatograms and mass spectra to ensure proper peak integration and accurate identification.
• Conduct calibration, validate instrument linearity, and verify performance.
• Support method validation, IDC studies, and transitions to EPA methodologies.
• Review QC data (Matrix Spikes, Surrogates, LCS) for EPA and DoD-ELAP compliance.
• Document Out of Control events and assist CAPA investigations.
• Utilize LIMS to verify data prior to final review.
• Mentor junior staff and assist audits and QA initiatives.

Skills

LC-MS/MS (PFAS)

ICP-MS (Heavy Metals)

GC-MS (VOCs)

Instrument troubleshooting

Data integrity

LIMS experience

Education

Associate's degree or higher in Chemistry/Environmental Science or related

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field preferred

Tools

Agilent platforms

Shimadzu platforms

Thermo Fisher platforms

Job description

Laboratory Technician II – Analytical Chemistry

Location: Oscoda, Michigan
Schedule: Monday – Friday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Salary: $55,000 - $65,000 annually

About the Opportunity

Lighthouse Lab Services is partnering with a growing environmental testing laboratory in the Oscoda, Michigan area that specializes in PFAS and trace metals analysis. We are seeking an experienced Laboratory Technician II to serve as a senior technical resource within the Analytical Chemistry Laboratory.

This position is responsible for the end‑to‑end analysis of complex environmental matrices, operation and maintenance of advanced analytical instrumentation, preliminary data validation, and ensuring compliance with stringent quality standards and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical chemistry experience, hands‑on instrumentation expertise, and a passion for producing high‑quality data in a fast‑paced laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot advanced analytical instrumentation including LC‑MS/MS (PFAS), ICP‑MS (Heavy Metals), and GC‑MS (VOCs).
• Interpret chromatograms and mass spectra to ensure proper peak integration and accurate compound identification.
• Perform complex multi‑point calibrations and verify instrument linearity and performance.
• Execute Initial Demonstration of Capability (IDC) studies and support method validation activities.
• Review batch quality control data, including Matrix Spikes, Surrogates, and Laboratory Control Samples (LCS), to ensure compliance with EPA and DoD‑ELAP requirements.
• Identify and document Out of Control (OOC) events and assist with Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) investigations.
• Utilize Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) to verify analytical data prior to final review.
• Assist with the implementation of new methods and transitions to updated EPA methodologies, including EPA Method 1633.
• Troubleshoot instrument performance issues, including sensitivity problems, capillary blockages, leaks, and pressure abnormalities with minimal supervision.
• Update and refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to align with current laboratory best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior laboratory staff.
• Support quality assurance initiatives and assist in preparation for internal and external audits.

Qualifications

Education

• Associate's degree or higher in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, or another scientific discipline required.
• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related scientific field preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 3-5 years of laboratory experience in analytical chemistry, environmental testing, or a related field.
• Previous experience in PFAS testing laboratories strongly preferred.
• Prior experience with water testing and environmental sample analysis highly preferred.

Technical Skills

• Hands‑on experience operating and maintaining analytical instrumentation, including Agilent, Shimadzu, or Thermo Fisher platforms.
• Strong understanding of instrument calibration, standard curve generation, and analytical acceptance criteria.
• Experience with chromatographic data review, peak integration, and data interpretation.
• Knowledge of EPA methodologies, DoD Quality Systems Manual (QSM), and standardized laboratory procedures is preferred.
• Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).

Additional Qualifications

• Exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and effectively troubleshoot complex analytical issues.
• Strong ethical standards and commitment to data integrity.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented laboratory environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and move up to 40 pounds, including sample coolers and laboratory materials.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary of $55,000 - $65,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits package available.

It is the policy of Lighthouse Lab Services to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual