Analytical Chemist

Quaker Houghton; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Volunteer PTO

Flexible dress

Comprehensive benefits

Global leader

Job summary

Quaker Houghton in Detroit, MI is seeking an Analytical Chemist to perform qualitative and quantitative analyses for current and new products. You will specialize in ICP-OES/ICP-MS, IC, wet chemistry, and corrosion testing of metal substrates and formulations.

You will generate high‑quality data, interpret results, and collaborate with R&D and manufacturing teams to ensure product reliability and compliance while maintaining ISO/GLP documentation and calibration records.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field.
• 2–7 years of hands-on ICP, IC, wet chemistry, and corrosion testing experience.
• Strong data interpretation and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience in chemical manufacturing or materials testing preferred.
• Knowledge of LIMS, SOPs, and method validation.

Responsibilities

• ICP Analysis — Perform elemental analysis using ICP-OES/ICP-MS with calibration and troubleshooting.
• Ion Chromatography — Conduct ion analysis to support formulation and impurity tracking.
• Wet Chemistry — Carry out titrations, acid/base analysis, gravimetric tests.
• Corrosion Testing — Perform weight-loss tests and electrochemical evaluations.
• Data interpretation — Analyze results and report clear conclusions.
• Method development — Develop and refine analytical and corrosion methods for new products.
• Quality & Compliance — Maintain documentation and calibration logs per ISO/GLP.
• Cross-functional support — Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and customers.
• SEM/EDS — Operate and interpret imaging data; coordinate maintenance.

Skills

ICP-OES/ICP-MS

Ion Chromatography

Wet chemical analysis

Corrosion testing

SEM/EDS

Sample preparation

Data interpretation

Method development

Quality & compliance

Cross-functional support

Instrument maintenance

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry/Analytical Chemistry/Materials Science

Tools

LIMS

SOP writing

Method validation

SEM/EDS instrumentation

Job description

Job Summary

Under very general supervision, formulates and conducts qualitative and quantitative analysis/tests in a laboratory setting for current and or new products. Analysis contributes to process improvements, performance, and overall customer product experience.

Job Description

Analytical Chemist. This position specializes in ICP-OES/ICP-MS, ion chromatography, wet chemical analysis, and corrosion testing of metal substrates and chemical formulations. The chemist will generate high‑accuracy analytical data, evaluate corrosion performance, and collaborate with R&D and manufacturing teams to ensure product reliability and compliance.

Responsibilities

• ICP Analysis — Perform elemental analysis using ICP-OES/ICP-MS, including calibration, method optimization, and troubleshooting.
• Ion Chromatography — Conduct anion/cation analysis to support formulation control and impurity tracking.
• Wet Chemistry — Execute titrations, acid/base analysis, gravimetric tests, and classical chemical assays.
• Corrosion Testing — Conduct corrosion evaluations such as weight-loss testing, coupon exposure, electrochemical methods, and surface characterization.
• Sample Preparation — Prepare samples via digestion, dilution, filtration, and extraction following SOPs.
• Data Interpretation — Analyze results, identify trends or anomalies, and provide clear technical conclusions.
• Method Development — Develop and refine analytical and corrosion testing methods for new products and applications.
• Quality & Compliance — Maintain documentation, calibration logs, and adherence to ISO/GLP standards.
• Cross-Functional Support — Support R&D, manufacturing, and customer technical teams with analytical insights.
• Instrument Maintenance — Perform routine maintenance and coordinate vendor service when needed.
• SEM/EDS — Operating, capturing images, understanding of findings, preventive maintenance

Qualification

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field.
• 2–7 years of hands-on experience with: ICP, Ion Chromatography (IC), Wet chemical analysis, Corrosion testing such as SST/ CCT, SEM/EDS.
• Strong understanding of sample preparation, instrument calibration, and analytical troubleshooting.
• Ability to interpret complex data sets and communicate findings clearly.
• Experience in chemical manufacturing, specialty chemicals, metal finishing, water treatment, or materials testing preferred.

Preferred Skills/Experiences

• Familiarity with surface treatment industry (electro plating, phosphate, paint, anodizing etc.)
• Knowledge of LIMS, SOP writing, and method validation.
• Strong problem-solving mindset and ability to work independently.
• Experience with accredited lab such as A2LA/ ISO 17025 Develops, executes, formulates and conducts qualitative and quantitative analysis/tests of moderate complexity in a laboratory setting for current and or new products. Implement new or improved analytical test methods to enhance capabilities, efficiency and accuracy (repeatability & reproducibility). Carry out prescribed analytical tests and determinations, in order to answer questions and address problems of customers. Clearly and orderly record all observations and data. Report results in a clear and concise manner to enhance technical exchange Maintain equipment glassware and workspace in order to keep them clean and well-functioning. Properly dispose of all laboratory waste. Participate in ensuring good management of laboratory equipment and storage spaces for chemicals and raw materials. Comply with housekeeping rules. Train and guide junior level chemists, lab technicians, and trainees in executing routine analysis. Provide analytical service and knowledge to internal and external customers based upon the chemists’ current level of expertise. Visit customers when required to assist the Commercial team. Ensure that all equipment and machines in your area of control are managed with regards to safety, maintenance, calibration, and availability. Perform project work in cooperation with a variety of internal and external contacts.

About Us

At Quaker Houghton, we are experts in the development, production and application of industrial process fluids, lubricants and coatings for the manufacturing industry. We have been an integral part in the growth of the world’s largest industrial and manufacturing companies from aerospace and automotive to primary metal and energy. Today, we have a global presence, with our corporate headquarters located in Conshohocken, PA. Quaker Houghton is a global publicly traded company with a unique collaborative culture that supports career growth for its associates and offers competitive compensation and benefit programs.

What's in it for you

• Competitive pay programs with excellent career growth trajectory
• Paid time off for volunteerism
• Dress for your day; how you dress is determined by what your day may bring
• Opportunity to participate in comprehensive benefit options including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Parental Leave, Holiday Pay, Paid Time Off, Tuition Reimbursement, and Savings Plan
• Work for a global leader in the industrial process fluids industry

Quaker Houghton provides equal employment opportunity for all qualified candidates.

Quaker Houghton does not discriminate against any candidate for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, affectional or sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, veteran’s status, physical/mental disability, genetic information, or any other category protected by U.S federal, state, and/or local employment law.

Furthermore, Quaker Houghton is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified candidates with physical and/or mental disabilities.