Analytical Scientist

Prairie AquaTech; Volga Township (SD); On-site; USD 52,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC dba Houdek is seeking a laboratory chemist to oversee analytical instrumentation, method development, and data analysis. The role reports to the Laboratory Manager and emphasizes precision, GMP-like practices, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to meet development milestones.

The successful candidate will demonstrate a rigorous approach to GLP-like lab work, experience with standard analytical equipment, and the ability to support process

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Analytical Chemistry or a related field required.
• Scientific, yet practical approach to problem-solving.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work on cross-functional teams and to prioritize and manage multiple demands.

Responsibilities

• Prepare standard and sample solutions as required by test methods.
• Operate analytical instruments during testing (e.g., BSC, pipettes, balances).
• Validate, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments.
• Perform peer review of other chemists' work.
• Develop and validate analytical methods as required.
• Provide analytical support to process validations.
• Support audit programs as required.
• Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting.
• Record observations and prepare data for team evaluation weekly.
• Assist with stocking and distributing supplies and equipment.

Skills

Attention to detail

Analytical thinking

Cross-functional teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Analytical Chemistry

Tools

BSC

Pipettes

Balances

Job description

At Houdek, we are pioneering sustainable solutions in agriculture by transforming soybeans into high-value ingredients that support animal health, environmental stewardship, and food system innovation. Based in Volga, South Dakota, we take pride in creating products that are rooted in science, powered by nature, and designed to make a meaningful difference.

We're growing fast and looking for people who want to be part of something bold and impactful. Our team works with purpose and pride, guided by the core values that shape our culture:

• Safety - We are committed to maintaining a safe, responsible, and healthy environment for all.
• Quality - From process to product, we hold ourselves to the highest standards.
• Respect - We foster a workplace where every voice matters and collaboration thrives.
• Transparency - We communicate clearly, honestly, and often with our teams and our partners.
• Innovation - We challenge convention, solve complex problems, and drive new possibilities every day.

COMPANY DESCRIPTION

Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC dba Houdek is a manufacturing company based in Volga South Dakota that is improving animal health and nutrition by providing high-quality feed ingredients. Using patent-pending technologies licensed on a worldwide, exclusive basis from South Dakota State University and developed internally, the Company is upgrading soybean meal to high-quality ingredients used in aquaculture and other animal feeds.

JOB DUTIES

This full-time position has responsibility and accountability for analytical instrumentation to ensure that commercial and product development milestones are met. This position requires outstanding attention to detail, organizational and communication skills, and the ability to multi-task. This position will report to the Laboratory Manager and will be responsible for the following:

• Prepare standard and sample solutions as required by the test methods.
• Operate analytical instruments during testing (i.e., BSC, pipettes, balances, etc.)
• Validation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of laboratory instruments.
• Perform peer review of other chemists' work.
• Perform analytical method development and validations as required.
• Provide analytical support to process validations.
• Participate in Regulatory, Internal, and Vendor audit programs as required.li>
• Provide technical guidance/troubleshooting where applicable.
• Make and record observations, perform calculations, and collect, and prepare data for evaluation by team every week.
• Conduct support functions with team members such as stocking and distributing supplies and equipment.
• Carry out all laboratory functions in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices, all Company Policies and Procedures as well as applicable regulatory standards.
• Additional responsibilities may include assisting with laboratory purchasing, maintaining inventories of chemicals and supplies, and waste management.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in an accredited laboratory with Good Laboratory Practices
• Experience with Equipment Maintenance

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's Degree in Analytical Chemistry or a related field of study
• Scientific, yet practical approach to problem-solving.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work on cross-functional teams and to prioritize and manage multiple demands.

Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC dba Houdek is an Equal Opportunity, Affinitiy Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Please note that submission of an application does not guarantee employment. As part of our hiring process, Houdek reserves the right to conduct background investigations, which may include verification of education, past employment, and professional references, as well as criminal history checks where permitted by law. Background checks will be conducted when deemed necessary and appropriate for the role being considered, and any such inquiries will be handled in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. A criminal conviction does not automatically disqualify a candidate from employment consideration. Each situation will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, considering the nature of the offense, its relevance to the role, and the time that has passed since the conviction. By submitting an application, you acknowledge that the information provided is accurate to the best of your knowledge and understand that falsification of information may result in removal from the hiring process or termination if already employed.