Research Chemist

RMSL•Littleton, CO

1d•$85,000 - $110,000•Onsite

About The Position

Rocky Mountain Scientific Laboratory is seeking a Research Chemist to join its Advanced Chemistry Group. Reporting to the Advanced Chemistry Group Manager, this role is part of a small cross-functional team working on development projects involving applied energetics and cutting-edge technology. The work focuses on developing novel energetic systems and scale-up processes, developing ammunition and armaments, and testing and analyzing energetic materials. The ideal candidate has a strong chemistry background and experience in organic and/or inorganic synthesis, and demonstrates innovation, willingness to learn, safety awareness, and problem-solving ability. The position involves synthesizing and characterizing energetic materials, optimizing formulations, handling and testing energetic materials and chemical reagents, and integrating materials into end articles such as ammunition and munitions. It also includes designing experiments and test series, working with specialized instrumentation and testing equipment, supporting restricted-information security compliance, and performing project engineering and management tasks. The position is full-time in Littleton, Colorado, does not require travel, and requires U.S. citizenship. Candidates must be able to obtain a security clearance and a Colorado State Blaster’s Permit.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree or higher in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering.
At least 2 years of professional experience in chemistry.
Extensive knowledge of chemistry.
Hands-on experience with energetic materials and/or hazardous chemicals.
Proficiency in standard laboratory practices.
Ability to work independently as a problem solver on fast-paced projects.
Creative thinking and innovation.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to obtain a security clearance.
Ability to obtain a Colorado State Blaster’s Permit.
U.S. citizenship is required.
Must be able to sit for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, see near and far, and work with a computer monitor.
Must be able to bend, sit, stand, and lift to perform the job effectively.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with general explosive effects and chemistry.
Colorado State Blaster’s Permit.
Experience in continuous synthesis.
Experience in armament and munition development.
Experience in energetic material synthesis and formulation.
Experience with laboratory and pilot-plant scale-up of energetic materials.
Experience with chemical formulation development.

Responsibilities

Develop novel synthesis and scale-up processes.
Characterize energetic materials using analytical methods such as DSC, SDT, TGA, FTIR, and HPLC.
Optimize formulations for propellants, pyrotechnics, and explosives.
Handle and test energetic materials and chemical reagents while adhering to safety requirements.
Integrate energetic materials into end articles such as ammunition and munitions.
Design experiments and test series for safe and efficient data collection.
Design, select sources for, install, maintain, and operate specialized instrumentation and testing equipment.
Assist with company compliance with restricted-information security regulations.
Perform project engineering and project management tasks, including report writing, technical presentations, tracking technical deliverables, problem solving, and budget and time management.