Associate Scientist, Manufacturing Quality - 3rd Shift (Richmond, VA)
About The Position
The Associate Scientist, Manufacturing Quality specializes in sample preparation, extraction, and digestion procedures that support chromatographic and mass spectrometric analyses across multiple testing programs. As part of an End-to-End (E2E) Laboratory Modernization Program, this role provides critical support for the characterization of tobacco, nicotine, inhalable, and consumer products. The Scientist is responsible for preparing samples used in the analysis of nicotine, tobacco-specific nitrosamines, volatile organic compounds, aromatic amines, carbonyl compounds, flavor additives, organic acids, elemental constituents, and other target analytes, working collaboratively with analytical testing groups to ensure sample preparation activities are performed efficiently, consistently, and in accordance with laboratory quality requirements. This is an entry-level position: the Scientist performs the activities above under direct supervision while developing foundational technical proficiency.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related scientific discipline with 0–2 years of relevant experience.
- OR Associate degree or high school diploma with 2+ years of relevant laboratory experience.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively under close to direct supervision in a regulated laboratory environment.
- Adaptable, self-motivated, and capable of following detailed instructions and completing routine tasks.
- Strong understanding of extraction and sample preparation methodologies.
- Knowledge of chromatography and mass spectrometry principles.
- Ability to perform complex sample preparation procedures accurately and consistently.
- Strong organizational and documentation skills.
- Familiarity with chain-of-custody and sample traceability requirements.
- Understanding of ISO 17025 quality systems and data integrity principles.
Nice To Haves
- Experience performing sample extraction and digestion procedures.
- Familiarity with GC, GC-MS, LC-MS/MS, UPLC, and ICP-MS analytical workflows.
- Experience with HPLC
- Experience supporting analyses of nicotine, TSNAs, VOCs, carbonyl compounds, aromatic amines, flavor additives, and metals.
- Experience within ISO 17025, GLP, or GMP environments.
- Experience supporting method validation and technology transfer activities.
- Knowledge of tobacco, nicotine, inhalable, or consumer product testing.
Responsibilities
- Perform sample extraction, digestion, and preparation activities that support chromatographic and mass spectrometric analyses across multiple testing programs.
- Prepare samples used for the determination of nicotine, TSNAs, volatile organic compounds, aromatic amines, carbonyl compounds, flavor additives, organic acids, metals, and other target analytes.
- Execute extraction procedures in accordance with approved methods and laboratory quality requirements.
- Prepare reagents, solvents, and consumables required to support analytical workflows.
- Maintain sample traceability and chain-of-custody throughout the analytical process.
- Collaborate with analytical scientists to ensure samples are prepared consistently and efficiently.
- Support method validation, technology transfer, and process improvement initiatives.
- Investigate extraction-related issues and participate in root cause analyses and corrective actions.
- Maintain laboratory records and documentation in accordance with ISO 17025 requirements.
- Maintain training and compliance in health, safety, environmental, and operational requirements.
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
