Quality Chemist

About the role

At Kraton, we make a Positive Difference, and we are looking for individuals who are also looking to make a difference in their jobs, for our customers, and for the world. We are hiring a key member of our Operations team at our Panama City, Florida location. The Chemist will conduct laboratory analyses, support manufacturing operations, develop and improve products and processes, and ensure compliance with quality, safety, and environmental standards. The role contributes to continuous improvement initiatives, technical problem-solving, and the sustainable advancement of plant operations and product quality.

Responsibilities

• Conduct chemical analyses and testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
• Ensure laboratory operations conform to company safety policies, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, test reports, and data management systems.
• Support manufacturing operations by providing timely analytical results and technical recommendations.
• Investigate product quality issues and participate in Root Cause Failure Analysis activities.
• Develop, validate, and improve analytical methods and laboratory procedures.
• Assist in troubleshooting production processes and identifying opportunities for process optimization.
• Collaborate with Operations, Engineering, Maintenance, and Quality departments to resolve technical challenges.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, coordinate calibrations, and ensure proper instrument performance.
• Support product development and evaluation of new raw materials, technologies, and processes.
• Participate in Process Hazard Analyses and Management of Change activities as required.
• Develop and monitor laboratory performance metrics to drive continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety requirements.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to plant leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Support audits, customer inquiries, and regulatory inspections as required.
• Champion best laboratory practices and foster a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of experience in an industrial, manufacturing, specialty chemicals, or quality control laboratory.
• Strong understanding of analytical chemistry principles and laboratory techniques.
• Experience with laboratory instrumentation such as GC, HPLC, FTIR, UV-Vis, ICP, or related analytical equipment.
• Ability to safely work in laboratory and manufacturing environments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving and data analysis capabilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently.
• Experience in the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 quality systems.
• Experience with SAP or laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Knowledge of statistical analysis and data interpretation tools.
• Experience supporting process improvement and product development projects.
• Familiarity with environmental and regulatory requirements applicable to chemical manufacturing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field.
• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) preferred.
• Relevant industrial laboratory experience may be considered in lieu of advanced education.