Chemist I

Job Title: Chemist I                                                                   

Department: Quality

Classification: Non-exempt, Hourly                                         

Reports to: Laboratory Manager

Salary Range $28.25 - $33.50 Hourly

Job Qualifications:                                                                                       

1. BA/BS in Chemistry, Biology, or related field required.
2. Excellent mathematical, communication and computer skills, be strongly detail oriented and be able to easily multi-task.
3. Should be able to independently initiate, prioritize, and perform or solve work problems and ultimately achieve work objectives and meet deadlines.
4. Must be able to effectively communicate in written and verbal form with co-workers, manager  and management.
5. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook etc.).
6. Must be able to work independently and as a team member.
7. Follow written (Standard Operating Procedures -SOP’s, company memos & emails) and verbal Instructions.
8. Minimum of one-year related experience with demonstrated aptitude to learn on-the-job.
9. Familiarity with lab equipment operation and SOPs.
10. Possess a strong work ethic to positively contribute to the company’s mission, vision, values and environmental policy and quality policy.
11. Must have a positive attitude, support co-workers to obtain desired objectives, and assist others in their contributions.
12. Ability to adapt to changing paces and processes quickly.
13. Must be able to learn ERP systems to perform data entry & print reports.
14. Ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (in required areas) for extended periods of time.
15. Handle hazardous chemicals safely according to their MSDS’s and SOP’s.
16. Attentive to the task and own surroundings.

Job Summary:

The Chemist I plays a critical role in supporting laboratory operations through analytical testing, data interpretation, and method validation. This position requires a strong foundation in analytical chemistry and proficiency with advanced instrumentation (HPLC, GC, LC, LC-MS, GC-MS). The Chemist I performs routine and non-routine analyses under minimal supervision, contributes to investigations, and collaborates across departments to ensure data integrity, regulatory compliance, and process improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform analytical testing using HPLC, GC, LC, LC-MS, GC-MS, or other complex systems.
• Interpret and evaluate raw and complex analytical data, identifying anomalies and uncertainties.
• Support method validation, transfers, and instrument qualification activities.
• Lead calibration verification and troubleshoot issues using scientific principles and manufacturer guidelines.
• Collaborate on corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) and investigations involving analytical data.
• Document findings, prepare technical reports, and present data clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Provide constructive coaching, feedback, and cross-functional training to peers and team members.
• Maintain vendor relationships for service, training, and system upgrades.
• Actively support LIMS improvements and digital workflow enhancements.
• Balance routine testing with troubleshooting, investigations, and method development.
• Adapt to evolving quality requirements, regulatory expectations, and customer needs.
• Communicate priorities, scheduling impacts, and investigation outcomes with QA, Operations, R&D, and Production teams.

Core Competencies

• Strong understanding of fundamental and advanced analytical chemistry concepts (LOD/LOQ, linearity, accuracy, precision).
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining analytical instrumentation.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve instrument or method-related issues.
• Knowledge of sample matrix effects and method validation requirements.
• Clear and effective communication across QA, Operations, peers, and leadership.
• Regulatory awareness (e.g., Organic, customer specifications, industry standards).
• Strong time management, adaptability, and problem-solving skills.

Best Practices & Expectations

• Run and optimize HPLC/GC methods while maintaining data integrity and audit readiness.
• Lead discussions during data reviews and provide clear, concise feedback.
• Support laboratory personnel in understanding method logic and analytical results.
• Track open investigations, method changes, and validation activities using structured tools (e.g., Gantt charts).
• Share ideas for continuous improvement in methods, processes, and workflows.
• Manage shifting priorities while ensuring timely delivery of accurate test results.

Laboratory team member

• Assist in maintaining cleanliness and appearance of lab.
• Follow safety requirements.
• Enter data in Excel, ERP, LIMS, and other software and communicate results.
• Communicate both verbally and in writing effectively with customers and other YCH teams to share results and present ideas.
• Perform analysis using laboratory SOPs as needed.
• Ensure proper operation and maintenance of instruments and equipment as per their respective SOPs and owner’s manuals, including in-house routine maintenance and scheduling of yearly service visits.
• Assist management with lab supply inventory, ordering supplies, and issuing purchase orders.
• Write SOPs as required.
• Continuously look for ways to improve process efficiency and notify immediate manager of observations and recommendations.
• Maintain sanitary and safe work environment and follow safety requirements.
• May actively participate on company’s Safety Committee.
• Ensure that company safety policies as well as federal, state and local safety and environmental regulations are observed.
• Must have a complete understanding of company’s policies, SOPs, QPs, EPs, HACCP GLP, and cGMP that pertain to their department to ensure quality, safety, efficiency and sustainability.
• Must adhere to all company policies.
• Examine documents, materials, and products and monitor work processes to assess completeness, accuracy and conformance to standards and specifications.
• Follow all SOPs in each area.
• Perform all other duties assigned by Management and/or designee.

Benefits: 

1. 100% Vested 401k Safe Harbor Match at 6%
2. Performance Incentive Bonus opportunities
3. 10 Recognized Holidays
4. 50 hours of personal/sick time pro-rated based upon hire date
5. 110 hours accrued Vacation
6. Competitive Wages
7. Medical, Dental, & Vision insurance
8. Health Savings Account (HSA)
9. Flexible Savings Account (FSA)
10. Company Paid Life & AD&D, Voluntary Life And AD&D Insurance
11. Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Lifeworks
12. Calm for Work
13. Education Tuition Assistance Program
14. Wellness Benefit
15. Employee Giveback Program
16. Individual Development Programs
17. Youth Donation Program
18. Continuing Education Programs
19. Bring your Pet to Work Program (applies to admin positions only)
20. Pet Insurance
21. And much more…