Chemist 1 - LC

About the role

Chemist 1 performs an essential role by providing analytical services and results accurately, efficiently, and in a timely manner to clients through extracting samples, proposing improvements in their area, stabilizing the extraction processes, and contributing to innovation to achieve the Company’s mission and objectives.

Responsibilities

• Performs sample extractions as per documented methods and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including but not limited to:
  • Routine extraction, chemical isolation, and sample clean-up using techniques such as blending, shaking, Soxhlet extraction, digestion, SPE, distillation/condensation, liquid-liquid partitioning, and chemical derivatization.
  • Independently documents and prepares reagents as well as analytical working standards according to current SOPs.
  • Operates laboratory apparatus and equipment including blenders, nitrogen- and roto-evaporators, shakers, pH meters, and centrifuges; notifies supervisor of any equipment issues requiring repair.
• Informs supervisor of any deviations or changes to established procedures and uses appropriate documentation for changes.
• Completes extraction-related quality control (QC) checks and entries in forms as required by protocols and SOPs.
• Maintains a clean and uncluttered working environment.
• Remains informed of hazards associated with chemicals, equipment, and their use in a laboratory setting; works safely using appropriate safeguards and personal protective equipment; reports all accidents or unsafe working conditions.
• May perform observational results entry into the LIMS, including BRIX dilutions, moisture, and pH.
• Troubleshoots issues with extraction procedures, sample processing (complex matrix types), and lab contamination; coordinates with supervisors on resolutions.
• Troubleshoots, repairs, and performs or coordinates maintenance and verification of general laboratory instruments and equipment (e.g., pH meters, centrifuges, balances, vacuum pumps, water baths, freezers, pipettes).
• Assists in revision and development of controlled documents and SOPs.
• Assists Chemist 2 and 3 with reference calibration standard preparation as required.
• Assists Chemist 3 in R&D projects—extraction and any other bench work required.
• Contributes to continuous improvement of laboratory operations by proposing and implementing changes to improve extraction quality, method performance, reduce cost, or shorten extraction time.
• Supports Sample Preparation, glassware and labware cleaning, and other Chemists as required or directed.
• May assist in training of specific tasks, depending on experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Chemistry or related science from a four-year college or university; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Familiarity with sample preparation, extraction, and general bench chemistry techniques.
• Experience with using and maintaining laboratory support equipment such as pH meters, centrifuges, balances, vacuum pumps, water baths, freezers, pipettes, etc.
• Some related experience or training in a laboratory setting.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to handle multiple priorities and deadlines.
• High emotional intelligence, professionalism, and good cultural awareness and communication with diverse backgrounds.
• Experienced user of MS Office and Adobe Acrobat.
• Some analytical experience in LC/GC/Inorganic instrumentation.
• Experience working in international businesses.

Skills

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
• Ability to write Standard Operating Procedures, analytical methods, reports, business correspondences, and laboratory documentation.
• Ability to apply advanced mathematical concepts (e.g., exponents, logarithms, quadratic equations) and operations (e.g., frequency distribution, analysis of variance, correlation techniques, sampling theory).
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to interpret technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with abstract and concrete variables.

Training Requirements

On-the-job training (OJT) in understanding company operating systems, including maintenance and operation of general laboratory extraction and analytical equipment, and passing the Initial Demonstration of Capability (IDOC) for existing SOPs or other laboratory procedures.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to hear and understand instructions and handle items involving repetitive hand and wrist movement. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment

Works in a laboratory using general laboratory extraction and analytical equipment. Employee may have exposure to hazardous chemicals and solvents. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.