QA Senior Scientist - Analytical Chemistry

New Belgium Brewing•Daleville, VA

1d•$59,000 - $69,500•Hybrid

About The Position

This is a senior-level position that plays a critical role in both leadership and scientific advancement within the QA department, with a specific focus on chromatographic and elemental analyses. The Senior Scientist will be responsible for implementing, executing, troubleshooting and training teams on advanced analytical methods designed to conduct product and process analysis and drive quality decisions while fostering a collaborative team environment built on continuous improvement strategies.

Requirements

Advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in Chemistry is preferred
Minimum 5 years of experience in analytical chemistry, preferably within the food or beverage industry; brewery experience is preferred
Proven expertise with GCMS, GC_ECD, UHPLC and ICP technologies and their application in complex sample matrices
Proficient with instrument software: MassHunter, Open Lab, ICP expert
Strong knowledge of analytical method development, validation, and troubleshooting
Familiarity with regulatory requirements relevant to food and beverage analysis
Formalized problem-solving skills, understanding of root cause analysis and practical applications of statistical process control are desired
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex data clearly
Experience leading projects and mentoring scientific staff is preferred.
Strong skill set in method development, validation, calibration and instrument maintenance
Ability to lift objects up to 50 pounds and carry for 3 steps
Ability to lift objects up to 20 pounds overhead
Ability to walk up and down stairs carrying objects up to 6 lbs.
Ability to demonstrate their ability to stoop, climb, squat, and reach overhead

Nice To Haves

brewery experience is preferred
Formalized problem-solving skills, understanding of root cause analysis and practical applications of statistical process control are desired
Experience leading projects and mentoring scientific staff is preferred.

Responsibilities

Maintain and improve methods for assigned laboratory areas, specifically involving GC, GCMS and UHPLC
Demonstrate a high degree of proficiency and independence for all routine analyses within discipline.
Troubleshoot method issues following a scientific approach
Interpret and integrate instrument data to apply results back to process and product improvement
Develop and provide training and mentoring to analytical and production team members
Work with instrument suppliers on technical issues, preventative maintenance and new technologies
Lead analytical investigations related to product quality deviations, process control, and contamination events
Collaborate closely with Quality Assurance, Production, and R&D teams to support process optimization and new product development projects
Interpret complex data sets, prepare technical reports, and communicate findings effectively to cross-functional teams and management
Own data integrity and review: raw data, alignment across instruments and other lab sites, integration rules, method/SOP audits, and daily data verifications for critical or more complicated analyses
Mentor laboratory technicians, providing guidance on analytical best practices and technology utilization
Stay current with scientific advancements and industry trends to recommend improvements or new technologies for the brewery
Champion LIMS applications for sample login, chain of custody, data integrations, CDS, sample request/report systems.
Assist with regulatory submissions and audits by providing analytical data and documentation as required
Demonstrated ability to start and facilitate projects that yield tangible production benefits, improved QA workflows or improved product quality
Competent in initiating both directed and self-initiated projects, driving continuous improvement
Adaptable in executing external procedures and methodologies for implementation within NBB operations
Effectively compile, organize, and interpret complex data sets to identify trends, support decision-making, and deliver clear, actionable insights to stakeholders
Equipped to recommend changes and enhancements to existing NBB standard operating procedures (SOPs) and protocols, fostering operational excellence in the laboratory
Ensure compliance with company QMS and applicable standards (e.g., ISO 17025 concepts for traceability and competence).
Maintain reference materials, calibrants, and metrological traceability; manage stability and lot qualification.