Analytical Chemist I: ICP/OES & Polymer Analysis

First Solar Inc.; New Iberia, Northern (LA, KY); Hybrid; USD 54,105,000 - 75,761,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar is seeking a laboratory analyst in New Iberia, LA to perform routine analyses supporting recycling, wastewater, and materials production. You will sample, prepare, operate analytical instruments, manage data, and maintain a safe lab environment under supervision.

The role requires an Associate degree in chemistry (BA/BS preferred), 3+ years in analytical labs, and experience with ICP/MS and polymer analysis. Travel up to 10% and strict safety/data quality standards apply.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in chemistry or closely related field required.
• BA or BS in chemistry or closely related field preferred.
• Coursework in analytical chemistry, polymers, and inorganic or solid-state chemistry preferred.
• At least 3 years’ experience in an analytical laboratory environment or academic equivalent experience required.
• Experience in an environment involving polymer analysis, thermal analysis, and wet chemistry preferred.
• Proven competency in chemical analysis; ICP analysis, and polymer characterization preferred.
• Ability to prepare samples, standards, and conduct analyses.
• Ability to learn the operation, calibration, and preventative maintenance of metrology equipment.
• Skilled in wet and solid sample preparation methodology.
• Will handle and use toxic as well as flammable materials.
• Intermediate knowledge of standard software (MS Office suite, JMP).
• Ability to use analytical skills to read charts and graphs to find trends.
• Good communication skills required.
• Ability to multi-task.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain ICP OES and /or MS instrumentation or equivalent instrumentation.
• Keep complete and accurate records of laboratory activities.
• Responsible for data management including accurate transcription to spreadsheets and other software.
• Protect the integrity of test samples by maintaining a clean and orderly laboratory environment.
• Work safely at all times, promptly reporting any safety issues to laboratory management.
• Provide support to laboratory management in the development of new analytical methods.
• Conduct projects to support continuous improvement.

Skills

Good communication skills

Multi-tasking

Safety awareness

Analytical thinking

Education

Associate degree in chemistry

BA/BS in chemistry

Analytical chemistry coursework

Tools

ICP OES

MS instrumentation

JMP

MS Office

Job description

First Solar is seeking a laboratory analyst in New Iberia, LA to perform routine analyses supporting recycling, wastewater, and materials production. You will sample, prepare, operate analytical instruments, manage data, and maintain a safe lab environment under supervision.

The role requires an Associate degree in chemistry (BA/BS preferred), 3+ years in analytical labs, and experience with ICP/MS and polymer analysis. Travel up to 10% and strict safety/data quality standards apply.