POSITION SUMMARY:

We are seeking a qualified ICP-MS Scientist with hands-on experience operating the Agilent 7800 ICP-MS to support regulated cannabis testing under the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) guidelines. The scientist will be responsible for the preparation, analysis, and reporting of elemental contaminant testing in cannabis and cannabis-derived products using validated methods aligned with ISO/IEC 17025, USP <233>, and state regulatory requirements.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Science, or related discipline.
• Minimum 2 years of experience with Agilent ICP-MS systems, preferably the Agilent 7800, in a regulated laboratory environment.
• Practical experience analyzing trace elements in complex plant, edible, or concentrate matrices.
• Proficiency with Agilent MassHunter software, collision/reaction cell (He mode), and understanding of matrix interferences.
• Strong documentation and data review skills in line with ISO 17025 and GMP requirements.
• Familiarity with Minnesota cannabis testing regulations, particularly with respect to heavy metals testing and reporting limits.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience working in ISO/IEC 17025-accredited cannabis, food, pharmaceutical, or environmental testing laboratories.
• Working knowledge of USP <233>, EPA 6020, and relevant state cannabis testing requirements for As, Cd, Pb, and Hg.
• Experience using Confident Cannabis LIMS or similar systems for result entry and COA generation.
• Familiarity with instrument qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) and method validation documentation.

• Independently operate the Agilent 7800 ICP-MS including system startup, autotuning, and sample analysis.
• Run daily system suitability and quality control (QC) samples in accordance with ISO 17025 and MN OCM protocols.
• Perform sample digestion and preparation of cannabis flower, concentrates, and edible matrices using approved methods (e.g., microwave digestion).
• Conduct calibration, calibration verification, method blanks, spikes, duplicates, and Certified Reference Material (CRM) analysis.
• Review and interpret analytical data, identify trends or outliers, and document investigations of non-conforming results.
• Perform routine maintenance (e.g., cone cleaning, nebulizer flushing, tubing inspection) and assist in basic troubleshooting.
• Maintain detailed and accurate documentation in both paper and electronic Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Ensure that testing protocols adhere to validated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), MN cannabis regulations, and internal quality policies.
• Support method development, matrix validation, and documentation of Limit of Detection (LOD), Limit of Quantitation (LOQ), and recovery studies.
• Assist with audit readiness, proficiency testing, and compliance reporting as required by OCM or ISO 17025 assessors.