Chemist (experienced entry level)

CycloKinetics (CleanJoule)•Salt Lake City, UT

36d•Onsite

About The Position

CycloKinetics is advancing the next generation of high-performance propellants for aerospace and defense. Our highly innovative technology allows us to harness existing energy from biomass and convert it to superior performance fuels and propellants across aviation, aerospace, and defense applications. We are a team of engineers, scientists, and operators driven by performance, innovation, and national security impact focused on building scalable, domestic energy solutions that power the future of propulsion. CycloKinetics is based in Salt Lake City, Utah. We are seeking to hire an entry-level Chemist to take an active role within our Research & Development (R&D) team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for conducting hands-on laboratory experiments and assisting in research and development activities for organic hydrocarbon processes in our pilot facility. This includes performing routine and specialized chemical synthesis, separations, and analyses using various types of instruments and instructions. In this role, conducts R&D experiments, assists in identifying and resolving process issues, and supports process development by executing experiments. This position also ensures the collection of high-quality data for submission to the R&D team for further analysis.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry with at least one to five years direct industrial experience applying chemistry concepts, practices, and procedures (applied undergraduate chemistry knowledge may be considered)
Master’s Degree in Chemistry with at least zero to three years direct industrial experience applying chemistry concepts, practices, and procedures (applied undergraduate chemistry knowledge may be considered)
Ability to use a respirator per OSHA standards; must pass respirator fit test and be clean-shaven where respirator seals the face
Familiarity with chemical handling and laboratory safety practices
Prior experience using hand and power tools
Strong attention to detail, organization, and problem-solving skills
Demonstrated proficiency with common computer tools and web-based applications
Prior experience participating successfully in work teams requiring personal accountability, attention to detail, collaboration, and results
Highly detail-oriented, organized, proactive, self-driven, with a demonstrated record of taking initiative to drive scientific and operational goals

Nice To Haves

Preference for candidates with prior applied laboratory, industry, manufacturing, or production experience
Candidates with backgrounds in biorefinery, petroleum, or chemical industries highly encouraged to apply
Familiarity with glove box operations for safe handling of air- and moisture-sensitive compounds

Responsibilities

Perform routine and specialized chemical synthesis, separations, and analyses projects from conception to completion as directed
Support daily operations involving handling, preparation, and management of chemical substances using appropriate PPE
Safely handle, measure, mix, and transport chemical substances per established procedures
Operate and maintain equipment used in chemical processing and testing
Prepare and standardize chemical solutions and reagents for testing and experiments
Perform basic chemical analyses on samples using standard laboratory equipment and techniques
Manage daily laboratory operations and task priorities with ownership and accountability
Develop and execute sample preparation and testing programs to evaluate material properties and performance
Safely operate and monitor batch reactors, distillation systems, chemical pumps, and pressure vessels
Develop, improve, or customize products, equipment, formulas, processes, or analytical methods
Induce compositional changes using heat, light, energy, or chemical catalysts for analysis
Analyze research projects, interpret test results, and develop nonstandard tests under R&D or Manager direction
Support chemists in experimental design, research projects, and production development initiatives
Compile and analyze test data to determine process or equipment efficiency and diagnose malfunctions
Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory instruments to ensure proper working order
Establish standards for products, processes, or procedures as directed by Manager
Develop and maintain working knowledge of laboratory and production test procedures
Monitor operational procedures to ensure conformance to technical standards
Coordinate, instruct, or advise personnel on test procedures for material component and property analysis
Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies in chemistry, materials research, and characterization techniques
Maintain accurate and complete laboratory records, including notebooks, test results, and data, per company documentation guidelines
Support development of standard operating procedures and progress reports
Demonstrate effective communication, organization, documentation, and computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Suite
Perform additional duties as assigned by Manager, Supervisor, or designated leadership