ICD - Analytical Pilot Chemist

About the role

Aquatech, a global leader in water purification systems, is seeking a full‑time Pilot Chemist for its Hartland, Wisconsin office. The Pilot Chemist reports to the Lab Manager, works in a non‑exempt capacity, and is responsible for safe operation of pilot and laboratory testing, data collection, equipment maintenance, and collaboration with Engineering.

Responsibilities

• Ensure a safe working environment and compliance with all safety policies.
• Oversee operation of pilot and laboratory testing, meeting key performance indicators such as operating conditions, sampling frequency, and testing quality.
• Operate pilot equipment (reactors, mixers, pumps, heaters, centrifuges, sieve shakers, chillers) and make process changes, record measurables, and perform analytical testing.
• Interact regularly with Engineering to understand pilot goals, provide updates, and communicate observations, challenges, and potential process design improvements.
• Complete end‑of‑shift reports and transfer required information to the next shift, including updated process objectives, setpoints, sampling requirements, and lessons learned.
• Read and write operating procedures, drawings, and pilot guidelines.
• Collect data from pressure, temperature, flow, and level gauges.
• Train new laboratory technicians and assist in developing training materials.
• Label containers properly and store feed, product, and waste appropriately; maintain cleanliness of pilot and laboratory areas and equipment.
• Collaborate with Engineering in designing pilot test systems; assemble and build pilot test apparatus.
• Troubleshoot and repair equipment required for pilot operation; maintain inventory of equipment and spare parts, initiating orders as needed.
• Perform regular maintenance on critical pilot equipment and calibrate temperature, pressure, and flow sensors.
• Conduct mechanical work using wrenches, power tools, and hand tools to assemble, disassemble, and inspect pilot equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization standards in the pilot area; perform light building improvement projects.
• Perform detailed measurements on pilot samples (viscosity, boiling point elevation, specific gravity, pH, particle size distribution).
• Conduct analytical chemistry tests (titrations, solids composition analysis, crystal characterization) and benchtop testing on client samples to support Engineering.
• Develop Standard Operating Procedures for bench‑top measurements and document observations, calculations, and results in reports.
• Treat waste streams for proper disposal; maintain proper labeling on all containers; monitor chemical inventory and initiate ordering as required.
• Set up and run samples through spectrometry and chromatography instruments, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
• Calibrate analytical instruments, communicate equipment needs, troubleshoot, and perform regular maintenance.
• Train new technicians to prepare samples for analysis and maintain cleanliness and organization of the analytical room.

Qualifications

• BS degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, Environmental Science, or related field; or Associate in Applied Science with strong chemistry/science coursework; or non‑degreed related work experience.
• Mechanical aptitude/technical background desired.
• Experience or training in bench‑top “wet” inorganic chemistry analytical procedures desired.
• Leadership experience.
• Detail‑oriented with ability to communicate and receive precise chemical data and procedures.
• Familiarity with standard laboratory instruments (pH and conductivity meters, analytical balances, microscopes).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Skills

• Effective communication with internal and external customers.
• Strong organizational abilities and a positive attitude.
• Ability to follow detailed lab procedures, safety sheets, and written/oral/diagram instructions.
• Hands‑on approach with minimal monitoring.
• High attention to detail.
• Initiative and willingness to learn and grow in responsibility.

Physical Requirements

• Lift, carry, or move up to 50 lb.
• Climb ladders; must not be afraid of heights.
• Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the laboratory.
• Maintain high concentration in a busy environment.

Schedule

• 12‑hour shifts as needed by testing.
• Work weekdays, weeknights, and overtime as required.
• Occasional weekend work may be required.