LC-MS Scientist
The LC-MS Scientist role involves operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting LC-MS and HPLC instruments in a high-throughput bioanalytical laboratory. The position supports a team of chemists by ensuring accurate data acquisition, coordinating instrument use, and providing technical training and problem resolution in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. This contract-to-hire role offers opportunities for professional growth in analytical instrumentation and mass spectrometry expertise.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Overview
Confidential Client (via Careertakes) is hiring a hands-on LC-MS Scientist to support a high-throughput bioanalytical laboratory in Madison, WI. This role is ideal for an early-career or mid-level scientist who enjoys operating and maintaining LC‑MS and HPLC systems, troubleshooting instrument issues, and collaborating with a team of chemists. This is a fully onsite, Contract-to-Hire opportunity.
Key Responsibilities
- Set up, start, and monitor analytical runs on LC‑MS and HPLC instruments.
- Independently operate instrumentation and ensure accurate data acquisition.
- Coordinate scheduling and utilization of a large fleet of mass spectrometers.
- Serve as a primary technical resource for chemists using LC‑MS instrumentation.
- Train and support new and existing laboratory staff on instrument operation and best practices.
- Troubleshoot instrument issues and perform corrective actions to minimize downtime.
- Conduct routine maintenance, calibration, and metrology activities to ensure instrument performance.
- Document maintenance activities, troubleshooting efforts, and instrument status.
- Communicate instrument-related issues and solutions with laboratory leadership and study teams.
- Assist with investigations involving instrument errors, data discrepancies, or process deviations.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and support workflow optimization.
- Cross-train in laboratory testing activities as needed and collaborate closely with scientists to meet project goals.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
- 0–5 years of laboratory experience operating HPLC systems and related instrumentation.
- Proven ability to set up, execute, and perform basic maintenance on HPLC systems.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with instrumentation.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; comfortable training others.
- Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and work effectively in a fast‑paced lab environment.
- Interest in analytical instrumentation, metrology, and mass spectrometry technologies.
- Collaborative mindset and commitment to supporting team success.
Work Environment
This fully onsite role is based in a collaborative bioanalytical laboratory in Madison, WI. The position is highly hands‑on and focused on LC‑MS and HPLC operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and coordination. Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with frequent interaction across scientific teams. Growth opportunities include cross-training, advanced troubleshooting, metrology, and expanded technical responsibilities.
Why Join Us
- Work with advanced LC‑MS and mass spectrometry technologies.
- Gain experience in a large-scale bioanalytical laboratory environment.
- Receive training and development opportunities in instrumentation and metrology.
- Build deep expertise in analytical chemistry and mass spectrometry.
- Opportunity to grow your career with a science-driven organization.
Job Type & Location
- Contract to Hire — Full time
- Workplace Type: Fully onsite in Madison, WI
Pay & Benefits
- Pay range: $26.00 - $30.00 per hour. Individual pay within this range will depend on qualifications, relevant experience, geographic location, and other job-related factors.
- If eligible, benefits for this temporary role may include: medical, dental & vision; 401(k) retirement plan (pre-tax and Roth options); voluntary life & AD&D; short- and long-term disability; HSA; transportation benefits; Employee Assistance Program; and paid time off (PTO, vacation, sick leave). Benefits and eligibility are subject to plan terms and change.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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