Chemist , Newborn Screening Lab DOH

Overview

Chemist 2, Newborn Screening Lab

Public Health Laboratories, Shoreline, WA | Onsite/In Person | PERMANENT APPOINTMENT

The Opportunity

The Washington State Department of Health plays a critical role in protecting the health of newborns across the state. This position supports that mission by performing hands-on laboratory testing that helps identify treatable genetic and metabolic conditions early, when intervention matters most.

As a Chemist 2 in the Newborn Screening Laboratory (NBS), you will independently conduct high-volume testing of newborn blood samples using advanced laboratory techniques and instrumentation. Your work directly supports timely, accurate screening results that impact families and health care providers statewide in Washington as well as in Idaho and Hawaii, as we are the regional testing NBS lab for those states too.

This is an on-site laboratory role due to the nature of the work.

• Perform chemical and biochemical testing on newborn dried blood specimens in a high-volume laboratory environment
• Operate and troubleshoot both routine and complex laboratory instruments and automated systems
• Analyze and interpret test results using laboratory software and information management systems
• Monitor quality control and quality assurance parameters to ensure reliable and accurate results
• Prepare specimens, reagents, controls, and materials needed for testing
• Maintain detailed records of testing activities, results, and inventory
• Support laboratory operations through equipment maintenance, reporting, and process improvements
• Provide backup testing support and collaborate with team members to meet program needs

• Your work has a direct and meaningful impact on infant health and early medical intervention
• You’ll use a wide range of modern laboratory techniques and technologies
• The role offers variety, from hands-on testing to quality assurance and method improvement
• You’ll be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to public health and scientific excellence
• Your contributions support a statewide program that families and providers rely on every day

You are detail-oriented, methodical, and comfortable working independently, as well as in teams, in a fast-paced laboratory setting. You enjoy hands-on scientific work and take pride in producing accurate, defensible results. You thrive in environments where precision matters, protocols guide the work, and collaboration keeps everything running smoothly. You’re adaptable, curious, and willing to help improve processes while supporting teammates and the broader mission of public health.

We value all relevant experience (paid or unpaid) and encourage applicants from all backgrounds. You must meet at least ONE of the options provided and any additional criteria listed. Experience may have been gained through paid or unpaid activities. While “Preferred Experience” is not required, these skills or experiences can help you stand out as a candidate.

• Option 1: Five (5) or more years of experience performing chemical or molecular analysis in an analytical laboratory.
• Option 2: Bachelor s degree in chemistry, microbiology, or a health-related field which includes 30 semester hours (45 quarter hours) of chemistry and at least one course and one lab in molecular biology; AND two or more years of experience performing chemical or molecular analysis in an analytical laboratory.
• Option 3: Master’s degree in chemistry or microbiology; AND at least six (6) months of experience performing chemical or molecular analysis in an analytical laboratory

Additional Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and

Experience:

• Proficient using standard desktop software such as word processors, spreadsheets, databases, and file storage on shared network servers.
• Demonstrated proficiency in operating and troubleshooting laboratory instruments (e.g. tandem mass spectrometers, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) systems, electrophoresis equipment, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), and other common lab equipment/techniques).
• Skilled in applying quality improvement tools to improve efficiency, accuracy,…