Senior Analytical Chemist

Job Summary:

The Senior Analytical Chemist will use his/her expertise to develop and validate complex analytical methods that are required for the characterization (e.g. identity, purity, quality, strength, etc.) of various materials and products. He/She will use a curious and investigative mind to provide analytical characterization solutions to product development projects through active participation on development teams. The Chemist will also lead resolution of technical issues that require troubleshooting of instrumentation, analytical test methods, systems, materials, and processes. Additionally, the Senior Analytical Chemist will work with the analytical team to apply and improve established Adhesives Research Test Methods to a variety of substances (raw materials, mixes and finished products) for the purpose of determining their conformance to specification and acceptance criteria.

Essential Functions:

• Leads and performs advanced analytical method development and validation to demonstrate material characterization or product suitability versus application requirements.
• Authors documents including Method Validation Protocols, Method Validation Reports, Method Verification Reports, Test Methods, and Test Study Reports.
• Troubleshoots and maintains instruments while utilizing available service agreements appropriately.
• Applies advanced scientific approaches, determines experimental errors, and performs analyses for test methods.
• Creates and identifies new test methods and procedures to enhance Adhesives Research’s capabilities in the areas of surface science, chromatography, rheology, thermal analysis, microscopy, etc.
• Constantly works to improve the knowledge and expertise of the team through continuous personal improvement and learning.
• Provides analytical support for advancing development projects in establishing necessary controls and specifications.
• Investigates issues regarding the manufacture, testing, and stability of marketed products and materials using analytical chemistry techniques.
• Performs materials analyses using Adhesives Research Test Methods.
• Ensures all analytical operations comply with Adhesives Research Procedures and all laboratory experiments are properly documented in notebook and are in accord with regulatory requirements.
• Interacts with and/or participates on cross-functional product development teams.
• Makes identifiable and substantial contributions to continuous improvement. Performs all duties consistent with established AR guidelines, ISO-9001 and those elements of GMP deemed necessary to support our business (as outlined in the Quality Manual). Actively complies with and endorses Department and Company objectives.
• Ensures a safe work environment where all practices are conducted in a safe and effective manner.

Additional Responsibilities:

1. Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Job Specifications:

• Undergraduate degree in Science/chemistry or related field.Masters degree is a plus.
• Minimum 3 years experience in an analytical lab environment with hands on instrumentation experience. Specific focus in polymer & adhesive characterization preferred.
• Expert in application of chromatography techniques (gas, headspace,direct injection, size exclusion), spectroscopy (FTIR, UV-Vis, fluorescence), thermal and mechanical analysis (DMA, DSC & TGA), surface characterization knowledge, rheology, and familiarity with wet chemistry techniques.
• Solid proficiency in troubleshooting and maintaining analytical instruments strongly preferred.
• Experience with Chromatography software data system (CDS, i.e. Chemstation, Empower, Chromeleon, etc.) preferred.
• Must communicate fluently in English.
• Must maintain confidentiality of AR information.
• Must be able to perform duties with minor supervision.
• Excellent oral & written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to be a team player.
• Ability to multitask and adapt to quickly changing priorities.
• Computer & related software knowledge including analytical software packages, word processing, spreadsheet - Microsoft preferred.
• Ability to employ statistical analysis techniques.

Physical Demands:

• Physical exertion such as periods of standing, recurring bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, or similar activities should be expected; occasional lifting of moderately heavy items (objects over 50 pounds)

Environmental:

• Work environment involves moderate risks or discomforts requiring special safety precautions, e.g., working around moving parts, machines, and irritant chemicals; may be required to use personal protective equipment such as masks, uniforms, blues, hairnets, gloves, safety shoes, safety glasses/goggles, shields, etc.