Research Chemist

Position Summary The position will be responsible for conducting chemical and analytical testing on food products, ingredients, and formulations to ensure quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. This role involves developing and optimizing analytical methods, troubleshooting formulation challenges, and supporting innovation in product development. This role will require project ownership and management as well as mentoring junior chemists in analytical testing procedures. The role is expected to be a technical resource for complex analyses and support the building of a strong team of analytical professionals. Essential Functions and Responsibilities ● Perform testing for nutritional labeling, contaminants, toxins, preservatives, additives, and other food components in compliance with regulatory standards (FDA, USDA, AOAC, ISO, HACCP, etc.). ● Lead study design for the verification and validation of new chemistry methods, including data evaluation to determine next steps with minimal support. ● Independently perform method feasibility, verification, and validation of new and novel methods. ● Maintain laboratory instruments in working order and make any minor repairs that are necessary. Leading coordination of installation of new equipment, including planning, site prep, delivery, and validation as appropriate. ● Perform advanced technical analyses with analytical instrumentation (GCMS, LCMS, HPLC, GC, ICPMS, etc.) autonomously. ● Identify departures from the quality system or test procedures and document such observations in accordance with the prescribed complaint system. ● Read, calculate and record analysis data to produce a report for the client. Responsible for correcting any discrepancies that occur. ● Review chemistry study data for clients and write initial reports for review and approval by the Research Manager or Director. ● Independently lead analytical method troubleshooting for methods within the area of expertise. ● Evaluate current methods and recommend modifications to laboratory personnel and management as new procedures become available. ● Support corporate quality and continuous improvement process. ● Initiate action to prevent or minimize departures from the quality system or test procedures, including addressing resource needs to properly correct issues such as client turn-around time requirements, work stoppage and assurance of the appropriate type and amount of materials are ready and available for use. ● Independently perform investigations and root cause analysis. ● Communicate procedural and operational difficulties and delays to client service personnel as required under direction of management. ● Maintain knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that is required to complete job responsibilities. Mentor and train junior chemists, laboratory technicians, and quality control staff on analytical methods, instrument operation, and best laboratory practices. ● Work autonomously to lead specialized projects and support specific or unique client requests. ● Must keep up-to-date with assigned training. ● Positively collaborate with R D, Quality Assurance, and operations teams to support new product development and process improvements. ● Other related duties as assigned. ● At any time, the incumbent must behave and operate in an ethical and Code of Conduct compliant manner.