Senior Scientist, Analytical Chemistry

Electra • Boulder, CO

8h • $100,000 - $150,000

About The Position

We're transforming one of the world’s oldest industries with cutting-edge technology and an innovative approach. Backed by top-tier investors and recognized by Time as one of the "best Inventions of 2024" and Fast Company as one of 2024's "Next Big Things in Tech", Electra is scaling rapidly and we're looking for bold, driven individuals to help us reshape the future of iron production. If you're ready to make a real impact in a company that's redefining heavy industry for a cleaner, smarter world, we want to hear from you.
As a Senior Scientist on the Analytical Chemistry team, you will serve as a technical leader in the analysis of metals and complex solid matrices, supporting R&D, engineering, and scale-up initiatives. This role owns X-ray-based analytical capabilities (e.g. XRF/XRD), including method development, optimization, and advanced troubleshooting of instrumentation. You will lead and mentor technicians and junior scientists, drive best practices in sample preparation, and influence analytical strategy across projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related field and 8+ years of industry experience in analytical chemistry; or Master’s degree in Analytical Chemistry or a related field and 6+ years of industry experience; or PhD in Analytical Chemistry or a related field and 3+ years of industry experience (experience excludes internships, co-ops, and academic projects)
• Deep expertise in analytical chemistry with a strong focus on metals analysis in solid matrices
• Proven experience with XRF and/or XRD analysis, including instrument maintenance, troubleshooting, and method development
• Experience with a broad range of analytical instrumentation, including ICP-OES, ICP-MS, microwave digestion systems, fluxers, and C/S elemental analyzers
• Strong sample digestion experience, including microwave digestion, aqua regia, four-acid digestion, and borate or peroxide fusions
• Demonstrated ability to lead and execute complex analytical projects independently
• Strong ability to analyze complex data sets and solve ambiguous technical problems
• Strong technical judgment in selecting and adapting advanced analytical methods
• Proven ability to mentor and guide analysts and technicians on complex procedures
• Ability to influence cross-functional teams and effectively communicate with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex findings into clear insights
• Proficiency with, or ability to quickly learn, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneDrive, SharePoint)

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Bruker S8 Tiger XRF or Rigaku Mini-Flex XRD
• Creative approach to employing multiple analytical techniques to confirm research questions
• Safety-first mindset; share potential risks with others before they result in hazardous outcomes

Responsibilities

• Lead and perform complex sample analyses, ensuring high-quality, timely data delivery aligned with project priorities
• Own instrumentation performance, including advanced troubleshooting, preventative maintenance strategies, and continuous improvement of system and uptime
• Apply exceptional attention to detail in data generation, review, and validation to ensure scientific integrity
• Define, lead, and execute analytical chemistry projects that improve data quality, throughput, and laboratory efficiency
• Translate complex analytical results, assumptions, and uncertainties into clear insights for technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Develop, validate, and implement advanced analytical methods to support evolving R&D and engineering needs Author, review, and standardize SOPs and technical documentation to ensure consistency and scalability
• Evaluate emerging technologies and drive adoption of new methodologies that enhance analytical capabilities
• Contribute to laboratory operations and continuous improvement initiatives, including workflow optimization and lab organization
• Read, understand, and comply with all workplace health and safety policies, safe work practices, and company policies and procedures
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor

Benefits

• 100% paid premiums across all medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, short-term disability, long-term disability, and basic life insurance plans
• $1,800 in annual employer HSA contributions (health savings account)
• 100% paid premiums across all medical, dental, vision, and telemedicine plans
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave
• 401k with up to 5% matching contributions which vest 100% on day one
• Eligibility for incentive stock options

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees