PLS Associate Scientist I

Pace® Analytical Services • Oakdale, MN

1d • $23 - $25 • Onsite

About The Position

This full-time, onsite position supports raw materials analysis in a laboratory and office setting in Oakdale, Minnesota. The Associate Scientist I performs or oversees standard chemistry and biochemistry analyses, using fundamental professional and technical knowledge of chemistry, instrumentation, testing, and procedures. The role follows standard operating procedures and methods to test materials, products, and devices; reviews and documents results; and supports the administration and oversight of standard chemistry programs, policies, and practices.

The position also contributes to quality assurance, equipment and sample preparation, calibration, records management, trend analysis, project work, and communication with staff, management, functional leaders, and customers. The role requires a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and compensation is $23.00–$25.00 per hour.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Knowledge of fundamental chemistry principles, practices, and techniques.
• Understanding of standard chemistry program administration, policies, procedures, and applicable laws, codes, and regulations.
• Knowledge of methods for resolving chemistry problems, questions, and concerns.
• Understanding of standard testing tools, instruments, and calibration.
• Familiarity with computer applications and systems related to the work.
• Ability to perform fundamental professional-level chemistry duties and oversee and administer standard chemistry functions.
• Ability to train others on relevant policies and procedures.
• Ability to contribute to and manage projects and work effectively as both a team member and individual contributor.
• Ability to interpret, apply, and explain applicable laws, codes, and regulations.
• Ability to prepare functional reports, correspondence, and other written materials.
• Ability to use initiative and independent judgment within established department guidelines.
• Effective written and oral communication, including correct business English and presentations to groups.
• Ability to build effective working relationships and contribute to team goals.
• Ability to meet the physical and communication demands of working in a lab and office setting, including using standard office and laboratory equipment, sitting for extended periods, and occasionally exerting up to 20 pounds of force and frequently up to 10 pounds of force.

Responsibilities

• Perform standard testing of materials, products, and devices using analytical instrumentation and established standard operating procedures and methods.
• Review, analyze, interpret, and document testing results.
• Review, complete, and process chemistry and biochemistry forms, documents, databases, and related information.
• Provide analysis, interpretation, and guidance to staff, management, and functional leaders on standard chemistry and biochemistry operations, policies, programs, and practices.
• Research and help resolve management and employee questions and requirements; assist with receiving customer feedback and coordinating responses and resources.
• Review processes, results, and feedback to identify trends, draw conclusions, interpret findings, and present results, proposals, and recommendations to management.
• Audit and review tests, equipment, procedures, operational databases, and reports for accuracy; work with teams to resolve or escalate discrepancies to support quality assurance.
• Assist with chemistry, biochemistry, or cross-functional project and program objectives, including proposed budgets, timelines, materials, personnel, and other requirements.
• Clean, maintain, prepare, and calibrate equipment, samples, and related areas.
• Interpret and apply department policies and procedures and assist with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.
• Suggest improvements and participate as an active team member to support department efficiency and customer service.
• Promote a courteous, cooperative, and effective workplace when interacting with customers and staff.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match that is immediately 100% vested
• Life insurance
• Disability benefits
• Voluntary benefits
• Paid holidays, sick days, and vacation days
• Health savings account (HSA)
• Wellness program
• Flexible spending accounts
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
• Parental leave
• Optional legal coverage
• Identity theft protection

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level