Chemist I

Quaker Houghton; Illinois; On-site; USD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Quaker Houghton is looking for an entry-level Chemist to support development and testing of chemical products in Illinois. The role involves executing tests, developing solutions to application problems, and providing technical service to customers. A bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline, preferably Chemistry, is required along with relevant internship experience. This position offers opportunities to interact with various internal and external contacts while maintaining safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• This position requires at least a bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline, preferably Chemistry.
• This is an entry level position. Relevant internship or co-op experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Execute development assignments and tests under supervision.
• Carry out tests and address customer problems.
• Develop and improve chemical products.
• Provide technical service to customers.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and workspace.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Initiative

Organization

Flexibility

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline

Tools

Word Processing software

Spreadsheet software

Internet software

Database software

Job description

Job Description

Position Summary: Execute development assignments, determinations and tests under close supervision of the manager/supervisor or in assistance to a more senior level Chemist.

What will you do?

• Develop and improve chemical products used in a variety of manufacturing and mechanical systems in order to enhance processes, safety and quality in order to meet customer needs and provide solutions to application problems.
• Execute tests of new and alternative raw materials in order to enhance performance and minimize cost. After evaluation of manager, implement alternative raw materials in existing products.
• Carry out prescribed tests and determinations, in order to answer questions and address problems of customers. Perform customer requested product analysis and testing.
• Execute analytical tests in order to determine quantitative and qualitative composition of raw materials, formulations, competitive products and other chemical (field) samples.
• Determine performance characteristics of competitive products using physical, instrumental and wet analysis techniques.
• Clearly and orderly record all observations and data. Under guidance report results in a clear and concise manner to enhance technical exchange.
• Implement test methods to enhance R&R, efficiency and field performance predictability.
• Provide technical service and knowledge to customers and sales associates based upon the chemist’s current level of expertise. Visit customers when required to assist the Commercial team.
• Provide assistance to manufacturing in order to improve the quality and efficiency of the manufacturing process. Assist manufacturing and the quality assurance lab in solving quality and production problems.
• 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.
• Ensure that all laboratory equipment is calibrated and functioning properly.
• Perform project work in cooperation with a variety of internal and external contacts.

Safety, Health, Environmental and Quality responsibilities

Comply with the applicable regulations and standards regarding quality, safety, environmental as well as the occupational health standards in order to minimize risks in these areas and to create opportunities and chances for improvement.

Work Environment

• Work in a laboratory and administrative office setting, w/ some travel as required.
• Ensure a safety mindset throughout designated area of responsibility.

Education, Training and Experience

• This position requires at least a bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline, preferably Chemistry.
• This is an entry level position. Relevant internship or co-op experience preferred.

Computer Skills

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of Word Processing software; Spreadsheet software; Internet software and Database software.

Supervisory Responsibilities

There are no managerial responsibilities for this position.

Competencies

• Position holder has good communication skills and has interest and ability in working at a team and cooperates well at various levels in the organization.
• Position holder is characterized by the following competencies: analytical skills, service oriented, takes initiative, is well organized and flexible.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to carefully, and precisely manipulate samples, apparatus, and sensitive instruments. The employee is frequently required to stand and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to walk sit and talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus.