R&D Chemist I

Job description updated - Reporting to - Effective 09.01.2019

JOB TITLE: Research and Development ChemistREPORTS TO: Research and Development Manager SUPERVISES: None DEPARTMENT: Research and Development LOCATION: Walnut GroveFLSA STATUS: Exempt EFFECTIVE DATE: 09/01/2019PURPOSE:

The R&D Chemists role is primarily to take direction from Senior R&D staff and Director on projects, focusing on specific synthesis, formulation, characterization, and performance tasks of product development, according to ICT company standards and client specifications.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Always strive for excellence in all work by focusing on continuous improvement, consistent work practices, and working with other co-workers for the betterment of the company while doing everything well with minimal errors or defects to ensure customer satisfaction and quality standards

• Perform bench scale synthesis

• Conduct performance and quality / specification evaluations of development products

• Analyze product properties

• Assist QC in production batch adjustments as required

• Support the proper maintenance and execution of the ICT chemical inventory system

• Document and report any issues with equipment to the Quality Manager and R&D Director

• Maintain lab and general work area by ensuring it is organized, clean, and free of safety hazards

• Follow appropriate procedures for the safe collection, labeling, and disposal of chemical waste

• Follow company policies and safety guidelines at all times, including the use of PPE

• Report any safety hazards and/or concerns in a timely manner

• Report any work related injuries and/or illnesses immediately

• Assist the production of commercial batches, i.e. weighing, lab scale catalytic charges, etc

• Maintain a good team-working relationship with supervisor and co-workers

• All other duties as assigned based on the needs of the business

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor of Science, Chemistry degree, or higher

• Must have the ability to understand and apply safe handling procedures of all materials used in the lab area, and ability to understand SDS (Safety Data Sheets) and QC sheets.

• Must have the ability to communicate clearly and concisely

• Must have the ability to follow written and verbal instructions, technical procedures, government regulations, and effectively present information to a group

• Must have the ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions

• Must have good computer skills and the ability to use word, excel, and power point (or equivalent programs)

• Must have good math skills, understanding linear/polynomial functions, unit conversions, etc.

• Must have the ability to handle pressure and think clearly in all situations

• Must be organized and able to multitask effectively

• Must have initiative and the ability to work in a team-environment

• Must have the ability to see closely and at distances, have good depth perception, peripheral vision, a steady hand, and ability to see color clearly

PREFERRED:

• Experience using manufacturing software/databases (Chempax experience is highly desired)

• Chemical synthesis experience in a laboratory setting

• Experience and/or knowledge of the operation and maintenance of basic laboratory equipment: mass balances, pH meters, titration equipment, melting point apparatus, % solids methods, etc.; (IR/UV/GC experience highly desired)

EXTERNAL WORKING RELATIONSHIPS:

• Occasional interaction when visitors and clients are touring facility

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/EQUIPMENT USE:

• Use of Gas Chromatograph (GC), High Performance Liquid Chromatograph (HPLC), Mass Spectrometer (MS) in tandem with GC or HPLC (GC-MS or LC-MS), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Spectroscopy may be required

• Use of general office equipment, computer keyboard, printer, copier

• Long periods of standing as well as regular sitting, walking, and frequent use of hands

• Occasional reaching with hands and arms, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling

• Frequent talking and hearing

• PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) must be used at all times while in lab, gloves, lab coat, safety glasses, respirators and face shields worn when necessary (with formal training), appropriate facial grooming required to ensure effectiveness

• Occasional lifting up to 50lbs

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• General laboratory environment

• Regular exposure to fumes, airborne particles, toxic and caustic chemicals

• Moderate noise level (computers and printers)

NOTE:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The above listed are major responsibilities of this position. They are not intended to cover each aspect of the position, as the scope and duties of a given position may change, or be temporarily altered, based on the business needs of the Company. ICT, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at all levels. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.