Senior Analytical Chemist: Rare Earths Lab

Solcoa Industries; Alameda (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Lunch provided

Visa sponsorship available

Job summary

Solcoa Industries is hiring a Sr. Analytical Chemist to operate analytical instruments and characterize rare earth materials. You will prepare oxide feedstocks, process intermediates, metals, alloys and powders, and report results to research and production teams.

This on-site role is based in Alameda, California, with a focus on sample prep, instrument operation, maintenance and accurate measurements. You will work with ICP-OES/ICP-MS, SEM-EDX, XRD and IGF to measure content and impurities,

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level degree or higher in chemistry or a related field with relevant lab experience.
• 4+ years of hands-on analytical laboratory experience, preferably in metals or materials.
• Proficiency operating ICP-OES or ICP-MS, including calibration and maintenance.
• Ability to interpret data and document methods clearly for engineers and production teams.
• Experience with SOPs, sample queues, and change in priorities in a fast-paced lab.

Responsibilities

• Operate ICP-OES and ICP-MS to measure rare earth content and impurities using established methods.
• Prepare samples and standards, manage contamination control, and perform dilutions as needed.
• Use SEM-EDX, XRD, and particle size analysis to characterize materials and powders.
• Perform inert gas fusion for oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen measurements and maintain calibration.
• Run QC procedures, review results, and investigate anomalies or matrix effects.
• Maintain and troubleshoot lab instruments and coordinate service/consumables.
• Collaborate with research and production teams to resolve unexpected results and improve product consistency.
• Write SOPs and maintain traceable data records for process development and QC.
• Maintain safe lab practices for acids, reactive powders, gases, and waste, and train teammates.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Education

BS or higher in Chemistry/Analytical Chemistry or related field

Tools

ICP-OES

ICP-MS

SEM-EDX

XRD

IGF

LECO O/N/H systems

Job description

Solcoa Industries is hiring a Sr. Analytical Chemist to operate analytical instruments and characterize rare earth materials. You will prepare oxide feedstocks, process intermediates, metals, alloys and powders, and report results to research and production teams.

This on-site role is based in Alameda, California, with a focus on sample prep, instrument operation, maintenance and accurate measurements. You will work with ICP-OES/ICP-MS, SEM-EDX, XRD and IGF to measure content and impurities,