Chemist

Description

Summary: 

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Bench Chemist to independently manage programs and projects, driving innovation in energetic materials.  

This role involves a strong focus on formulation, requiring excellent mathematical skills for calculations. The position also includes hands-on laboratory work utilizing equipment for material characterization and demonstrating familiarity with basic chemical synthesis procedures, which may be required on rare occasions.  

The Bench Chemist will also be responsible for meticulous record-keeping, managing lab procedures, and ensuring data integrity, including the preparation of comprehensive lab and test reports, while also contributing to product design, process optimization, and equipment implementation. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

● Formulation– Create, follow, and scale up chemical formulations and processes for novel energetic material. This includes performing necessary mathematical calculations for accurate formulation development. Assist in troubleshooting product characteristics results in material.  

● Occasional Basic Chemical Synthesis– On rare occasions, perform basic chemical synthesis following established procedures. Possess a working familiarity with fundamental chemical synthesis techniques.  

● Knowledge of HPLC, PSA, DSC, wet chemistry equipment and other lab equipment to characterize material.  

● Quoting– Assist in the Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) process of determining a bid/no-bid and by providing information on labor, material, and equipment needed for formal request for quotes. (APQP is a structured method used in product development to ensure customer satisfaction.)  

● Process development, improvement and implementation– Evaluate processes & equipment in the plant and implement improvements based on operator input, new/improved equipment, design changes, etc. with the goals of safety, quality, and cost.  

● Program/Project Management– Manage customer programs to ensure all customer requirements are met. This may be in conjunction with any other aspect of the job. Manage internal projects to ensure all project goals are met.  

● General Engineering– Provide product designs and perform or assist in failure analysis, perform or assist in hazards analysis, provide any additional engineering support to the operations group as necessary.  

● Record Keeping and Data Management– Maintain highly detailed and accurate laboratory notebooks and records in compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements. Must be skilled at managing lab procedures, protocols, and experimental data, ensuring data integrity and traceability.    

Work Environment: 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to energetic material. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be required in designated areas. The noise level in the manufacturing area may vary. The role may involve occasional movement within the facility, including standing, walking, and lifting up to 60 lbs. 

Benefits: 

VKIS Energetics, LLC. offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance. Additionally, there is potential for stock options. This role offers a valuable opportunity for growth and has the potential to move up within the company.  

Qualifications

Qualifications: 

● Ability to work safely is a must  

● Leadership / Self Motivation is essential  

● Must have a can-do relentless personality for problem solving  

● Excellent written and oral communication skills  

● Ability to problem solve  

● Ability to work in manufacturing setting, with motions requiring lifting 60 lbs.    

Skills & Knowledge: 

● Microsoft Office, Program/Project Management  

● Strong foundation in Chemistry principles, with a strong emphasis on formulation development and related mathematical calculations. Familiarity with basic chemical synthesis procedures relevant to energetic materials.  

● Proven ability to maintain detailed laboratory records and manage experimental data effectively, including the preparation of comprehensive lab and test reports.  

● Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology experience is desirable. 

Education and/or Experience: 

● Bachelor of Science in Chemistry  

● 5 Years work experience, Energetics experience a preferred