Analytical Chemist

Ascend Performance Materials • Pensacola, FL

21h

About The Position

Ascend Performance Materials is a global leader in high-performance chemicals, fibers and plastics, committed to enhancing quality of life through innovation. With fully integrated manufacturing facilities across North America, Europe, and Asia, we develop essential solutions that drive safer vehicles, cleaner energy, advanced medical devices, and durable consumer goods. Guided by a strong focus on safety, sustainability, and customer success, we operate responsibly while delivering value through cutting-edge technologies and industry expertise. Join our team and be part of a collaborative environment where your work drives meaningful global impact. The Analytical Chemist is responsible for leading laboratory-based research and analytical activities, serving as a technical expert for method development, validation, and deployment. This role provides technical oversight of the Chemical Lab at Pensacola (PEN) and supports associated testing activities at Foley (FOL) and other global locations. This role partners closely with operations, quality, and technology teams to ensure analytical rigor, safety, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or a related technical discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of laboratory experience in a polymer testing or chemical lab environment.
• Experience in applied bench scale polymer testing
• Experience in analytical techniques such as chromatography (gas and liquid), electrochemistry (pH, acid/base, polarography), Spectroscopy, LIMS data management.
• Experience in providing development, deployment, maintenance, and troubleshooting support for laboratory equipment and analytical instrumentation
• Ability to develop, document, and apply analytical methods, standard test procedures, and laboratory techniques
• Working knowledge of statistical tools to support data quality, interpretation, and reduction of experimental variability
• Experience applying continuous improvement tools to improve laboratory safety, reliability, or efficiency
• Effective troubleshooting and problem-solving skills related to laboratory methods and analytical equipment
• Clear written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document methods and explain technical results
• Strong collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across operations, quality, and technology teams
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet commitments
• Demonstrated accountability, attention to detail, and consistent follow-through

Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and deploy analytical methods, procedures, and techniques.
• Provide technical oversight of the Quality Inspection Laboratory, including associated testing at other sites.
• Serve as a technical resource and informal mentor to laboratory staff.
• Partner with vendors to source, maintain, and calibrate laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
• Ensure all laboratory activities are conducted safely and in compliance with environmental, safety, security, and health requirements and operating permits.
• Identify, communicate, and address environmental, safety, security, and health issues in a timely manner.
• Participate in and support audits, inspections, job safety analyses, and housekeeping initiatives.
• Implement assigned actions from audits, management systems, and continuous improvement programs.
• Coordinate laboratory activities with operations, quality, and other functional teams.
• Provide technical input and analytical support for plant trials, investigations, and improvement projects.
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, charts, and presentations summarizing laboratory results and methodologies.

Benefits

• Our people are our greatest assets, and our Total Rewards Program extends beyond traditional benefits to include access to on-site medical clinics at our U.S. facilities, a global wellness rewards program and Performance Matters, an employee-driven recognition plan.
• And the Ascend Cares Foundation, led by Ascend employees, supports Ascend families in times of need, provides inspiring opportunities for community engagement and facilitates community leadership.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees