Materials Characterization Scientist

Ashland Inc. • Wilmington, DE

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Ashland has an exciting opportunity for a Materials Characterization Scientist to join our R&D / Analytical Services team at our Wilmington, DE site. This is a visible and impactful role within the organization supporting critical laboratory operations and analytical workflows. This position will report to Material Characterization Team Leader.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Experience working in a materials characterization or analytical laboratory environment
• Hands-on experience with UV-Vis and FT-IR spectroscopy and microscopy instruments
• Working knowledge of polymer chemistry, organic chemistry, and material properties
• Experience using Microsoft Office applications and LIMS systems
• Ability to operate, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory instrumentation
• Physical ability to safely perform required laboratory tasks (including lifting and equipment handling)
• Demonstrated responsible and ethical behavior at all times
• Ability to drive value through business understanding, sound decision-making, and innovative thinking

Nice To Haves

• Experience with chromatography systems and Empower software
• Experience in wet chemistry techniques
• Experience maintaining thermal analysis instrumentation
• Prior experience owning laboratory workflows or instrumentation areas
• Strong experience in data analysis and reporting using Excel
• Familiarity with laboratory relocation or setup activities

Responsibilities

• Independently perform routine and moderately complex analytical testing using spectroscopy, microscopy, thermal analysis, and chromatography techniques
• Take ownership of the optical laboratory, including leading and supporting FT-IR and UV-Vis workflows, ensuring high-quality, reliable, and timely analytical results, day-to-day operations, workflow efficiency, and instrumentation oversight.
• Own optical microscopy and phase contrast microscopy workflows, including sample preparation, analysis, and documentation
• Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation in accordance with established procedures and safety standards
• Accurately record, process, and report data using laboratory notebooks, Excel, and LIMS systems
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment
• Support laboratory relocations, equipment setup, and transitions as needed
• Safely perform tasks including lifting up to 50 lbs, changing gas cylinders, and handling liquid nitrogen dewars
• Actively contribute to organizational goals by taking initiative, executing on objectives, and maintaining a strong focus on performance and safety
• Improve organizational capability through a can-do attitude, collaboration, effective communication, and positive influence

Benefits

• industry competitive salary and benefits
• pay-for-performance incentive plans
• a diverse work environment where employees feel challenged and valued
• opportunities for development and advancement throughout our global organization

What This Job Offers

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