Analytical Chemist
4 days ago
Fremont
Job DescriptionWe are seeking an experienced Lead Analytical Chemist to operate and take ownership of our analytical chemistry laboratory. This is a hands-on technical role with full responsibility for the lab's output: instrument operation, method development, record-keeping, CoA generation, and quality system compliance. The ideal candidate has deep experience with ICP and LECO equipment, a strong chemistry background, and the discipline to maintain a high-quality, audit-ready lab environment. This role does not involve managing a team but does require owning the lab's workflow, standards, and deliverables. Job Duties · Operate, calibrate, and maintain ICP-OES instrumentation for composition and impurity analysis of metals and advanced materials · Operate LECO analyzers for oxygen, and nitrogen determination · Perform DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry) analysis as part of the expanding instrument lineup (training available; prior experience preferred) · Develop and optimize sample preparation and digestion methods for metal alloys and ceramic materials · Take full ownership of analytical lab operations: scheduling, workflow prioritization, and day-to-day output · Issue and maintain Certificates of Analysis (CoA/CoAC) with accuracy and full traceability · Maintain records of supplier CoAs and keep the chemical and CoAC database current · Ensure all documentation is accurate and compliant with ISO 9001 requirements · Write and maintain work instructions, SOPs, and method documentation · Track and manage calibration schedules to keep all instruments in compliance · Support production troubleshooting through analytical data and interpretation · Assist R&D in developing and validating testing methods for new materials and alloys · Facilitate customer visits and quality audits related to the analytical lab · Provide guidance to other lab personnel on equipment use and documentation standards as needed What We're Looking For · Exceptional attention to detail — accuracy in measurement, documentation, and reporting · Organized and disciplined: able to manage a high-throughput sample load in a clean, well-run lab · Strong chemistry knowledge: solid understanding of inorganic chemistry, elemental analysis, and materials characterization · Self-directed and ownership-minded: comfortable running a function independently and driving continuous improvement · Reliable, consistent, and collaborative with cross-functional teams Skills & Experience (Required) · Hands-on experience with ICP-OES for elemental analysis · Hands-on experience with LECO combustion/inert gas fusion analyzers (O, N) · Proficiency in CoA/CoAC generation and traceability documentation · Experience working within an ISO 9001 (or equivalent) quality management system · Strong record-keeping and database management discipline Skills & Experience (Preferred) · Experience with DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry) or other thermal analysis instruments · Background in metals, alloys, or advanced materials environments · Experience acting as a technical lead or primary lab owner Education · B.S. in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field required · 3–7 years of hands-on analytical laboratory experience Physical Requirements · Ability to work in a laboratory environment with appropriate PPE (gloves, eye protection, respirator when required)