Senior Scientist

About the role

Restek is looking for a Senior Scientist to join our Reference Standards team, leading the synthesis, purification, and optimization of reference standard compounds, including PFAS, PAHs, and pesticides, to help build the inventory our customers rely on for accurate testing. This is an applied, hands-on role for someone who wants to stay close to the chemistry rather than move into a purely research-focused position. You will work closely with our Analytical Development, Manufacturing, and Product Management teams, and mentor junior chemists as you become established in the role. There is real room to grow into greater technical ownership, leading process improvements, and becoming the go-to expert who supports and informs the research happening around you.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize, purify, and optimize reference standard compounds, including PFAS, PAHs, and pesticides, prioritizing the materials our customers need most.
• Perform hands-on synthesis and purification work using small-scale synthesis equipment, distillation, recrystallization, and manual and automated chromatography, including LC-MS prep systems.
• Write and maintain clear SOPs and experience reports documenting synthesis and purification procedures, results, and conclusions.
• Support the transfer of optimized processes into Manufacturing, partnering closely with Analytical Development, Manufacturing, and Product Management.
• Mentor and train junior chemists as you become established in the role, serving as a go-to technical resource for synthesis and purification.
• Prepare and deliver internal technical presentations, with only occasional travel (about one to two weeks per year).
• Follow safe working procedures for the chemicals and materials you work with, in line with Restek's Environmental Health and Safety guidelines.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and 10 or more years of relevant chemistry experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience (a Ph.D. is a plus but not required).
• Hands-on experience with organic synthesis and purification techniques such as distillation, recrystallization, and chromatography.
• Comfort working independently at the bench, with a preference for applied, hands-on chemistry over pure research.
• Strong documentation habits and the ability to write clear, thorough SOPs.
• Experience with PFAS, PAHs, pesticides, or similar compound classes is a plus.
• Willingness to mentor others and share technical knowledge with the team.

This position will require the successful completion of a standard background check and pre-employment drug screen in accordance with Restek policy.

Benefits

• Generous PTO and unlimited sick time.
• Onsite fitness center and wellness program with incentives.
• Childcare reimbursement and adoption assistance.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and 8% retirement contributions.
• Learning opportunities, career advancement programs, and a collaborative culture.

Restek is a 100% employee-owned company with core values—We Care, Better Every Day, Respect for All, and Win Together—at the heart of everything we do.