Synthetic Chemist- Energetic Materials

Signature Science, LLC; Egg Harbor Township (NJ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Signature Science, LLC is seeking a lead synthetic chemist for the Transportation Security Laboratory (TSL). You will lead synthesis of energetic materials, develop new HMEs, and ensure strict safety and QC across procedures and tests.

The role requires presenting technical findings, drafting reports and SOPs, and coordinating with federal stakeholders. A strong chemistry background and experience with HMEs are essential for success in this critical national security program.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry with a minimum of five years relevant experience; or a master's degree with at least two years of relevant experience; or a PhD with at least one year of relevant experience.
• Proven ability to synthesize and handle energetic materials safely and effectively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to collaborate with federal clients.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize homemade explosives following SOPs and safety protocols.
• Develop and optimize new syntheses for HMEs of interest.
• Perform quality control on HMEs produced at the laboratory.
• Collaborate with federal client to meet laboratory objectives.
• Conduct wet chemistry techniques, dilutions, and extraction procedures.
• Prepare and review technical reports, SOPs, and test plans.
• Perform literature reviews to support project needs.
• Safely handle explosives and hazardous materials; manage materials purchasing.

Skills

Energetic materials

Communication skills

Listening skills

Team player

MS Office

Density measurement

IR/Raman/NMR

EasyMax

Education

Bachelor's in Chemistry (5+ years relevant experience)

Master's in Chemistry (2+ years relevant experience)

PhD in Chemistry (1+ year relevant experience)

Tools

EasyMax

Job description

Position Purpose:

The primary purpose of this position is to serve as the lead synthetic chemist at the Transportation Security Laboratory (TSL).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Follows currently established standard operating procedures (SOPs) to synthesize homemade explosives (HMEs).
• Performs research to develop syntheses for new HMEs of interest.
• Performs quality control of HMEs synthesized at the TSL.
• Works directly with federal client to achieve the goals of the HME laboratory at the TSL.
• Performs wet chemistry (dilutions, extractions, etc.).
• Composes and reviews technical reports and SOPs.
• Composes, reviews, and executes test plans.
• Performs literature reviews.
• Safely handles explosive and other hazardous materials.
• Sources materials and submits purchase requests.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Previous experience synthesizing and handling energetic material.
• Good interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Good listening skills.
• Team player with a positive attitude.
• Good working skills of software and tools necessary for job functions including Microsoft Office suite.
• Experience with measuring density and refractive index
• Experience with IR, RAMAN, or NMR
• Experience with using EasyMax for chemical syntheses

Education/Experience:

Incumbent professional should have: a bachelor's degree in chemistry with a minimum of five years relevant experience; or a master's degree in chemistry with at least two years of relevant experience; or a PhD in Chemistry with at least one year of relevant experience.

Certificates and Licenses:

None

Clearance:

The ability to obtain a Secret clearance and Department of Homeland Security suitability is required for this position.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

The incumbent professional may oversee junior level chemists performing synthetic chemistry tasks.

Working Conditions/ Equipment:

The incumbent professional is expected to work and/or be available during regular business hours. He/she should also generally be available via e-mail or phone during non-business hours as needed to address critical issues or emergencies. He/she may be required to travel on behalf of the company up to 25%.

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.