Research Chemist

Research Chemist

Crete Analytical Laboratory

Regular (US Only)

MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES

As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 32 countries, we offer to our customers a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods. External growth has been a key pillar of our history with more than 40 acquisitions completed in the last 10 years.

If you want to contribute to an inspiring long-term purpose, to be part of a fast growing company on a high-value market with significant build-up opportunities, and to grow in an entrepreneurial and warm environment, join us!

YOUR DAY TO DAY LIFE

We are looking for a Research Chemist in 3600 Eagle Nest Dr, North Building, Crete, IL 60417 USA. Your mission will be to:

Position Summary
The position will be responsible for conducting chemical and analytical testing on food products, ingredients, and formulations to ensure quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. This role involves developing and optimizing analytical methods, troubleshooting formulation challenges, and supporting innovation in product development. This role will require project ownership and management as well as mentoring junior chemists in analytical testing procedures. The role is expected to be a technical resource for complex analyses and support the building of a strong team of analytical professionals.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities
* Perform testing for nutritional labeling, contaminants, toxins, preservatives, additives, and other food components in compliance with regulatory standards (FDA, USDA, AOAC, ISO, HACCP, etc.).
* Lead study design for the verification and validation of new chemistry methods, including data evaluation to determine next steps with minimal support.
* Independently perform method feasibility, verification, and validation of new and novel methods.
* Maintain laboratory instruments in working order and make any minor repairs that are necessary. Leading coordination of installation of new equipment, including planning, site prep, delivery, and validation as
appropriate.
* Perform advanced technical analyses with analytical instrumentation (GCMS, LCMS, HPLC, GC, ICPMS, etc.) autonomously.
* Identify departures from the quality system or test procedures and document such observations in accordance with the prescribed complaint system.
* Read, calculate and record analysis data to produce a report for the client. Responsible for correcting any discrepancies that occur.
* Review chemistry study data for clients and write initial reports for review and approval by the Research Manager or Director.
* Independently lead analytical method troubleshooting for methods within the area of expertise.
* Evaluate current methods and recommend modifications to laboratory personnel and management as new procedures become
available.
* Support corporate quality and continuous improvement process.
* Initiate action to prevent or minimize departures from the quality system or test procedures, including addressing resource needs to properly correct issues such as client turn-around time requirements, work stoppage and assurance of the appropriate type and amount of materials are ready and available for use.
* Independently perform investigations and root cause analysis.
* Communicate procedural and operational difficulties and delays to client service personnel as required under direction of management.
* Maintain knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that is required to complete job responsibilities. Mentor and train junior chemists, laboratory technicians, and quality control staff on analytical methods, instrument operation, and best laboratory practices.
* Work autonomously to lead specialized projects and support specific or unique client requests.
* Must keep up-to-date with assigned training.
* Positively collaborate with R&D, Quality Assurance, and operations teams to support new product development and process
improvements.
* Other related duties as assigned.
* At any time, the incumbent must behave and operate in an ethical
and Code of Conduct compliant manner.

YOUR PROFILE

Qualifications Required
* Education:
Bachelors degree plus >6 years experience in a related chemistry lab environment
Masters degree and >4 years relevant industry work experience
Ph. D in a related field and >2 years relevant industry experience
In lieu of degree, >10 years relevant work experience
* This position requires an advanced knowledge of chemistry to perform analyses, obtain correct results and interpret data.
* Strong proficiency in chromatography, spectroscopy, and other instrumental techniques. (HPLC, GC, GC-MS, LC-MS, FTIR, ICP-MS, ELISA, automated wet chemistry, etc.)
* Strong knowledge of food composition, ingredient functionality, and food processing interactions.
* Experience performing method validation, statistical data analysis, and experimental design.
* Competency in laboratory procedures adhering to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and ISO 17025 standards.
* Familiarity with food industry regulations (FDA, USDA, FSMA, etc.).
* Strong problem-solving, critical-thinking, and communication skills.
* Ability to work in a fast-paced, cross-functional R&D environment.

Qualifications Desired
* Advanced experience in method development and validation in food and dietary supplement chemistry.
* Advanced technical and troubleshooting skills on a variety of analytical instrumentations, including HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, FTIR,
ICP-MS, etc.
* Ability to conduct shelf-life studies, stability testing, and sensory evaluations to assess product.
* Ability to design verification and validation protocols that address the relevant properties of the method being verified/validated.

Communication
* Routine contact with the personnel outside the immediate working unit and customers.
* Strong oral and written communication skills are essential to this position for effective customer contact. Customer relations skills are needed to obtain and provide information to the customer.

Success Factors / Job Competencies
* Attention to Detail: Careful focus on all aspects of tasks.
* Customer Service Orientation: Prioritizing customer satisfaction.
* Multitasking Abilities: Managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
* Organizational Skills: Ability to arrange resources and tasks efficiently.
* Problem-Solving Skills: Finding solutions to challenges.
* Team Collaboration: Working well with others.
* Time Management: Efficient use of time to complete tasks.
* Accurate Record-Keeping: Maintaining precise records.
* High Productivity Levels: Producing substantial output.
* Meeting Deadlines Consistently: Completing tasks on time.
* Minimal Errors in Documentation: Few mistakes in records.
* Safety: Perform all duties in a safe manner.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
Physical Demands:
* Regularly required to stand, walk, and handle chemicals and laboratory equipment.
* Occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
* Must have fine motor skills for precise measurements and handling of chemicals.
* Specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, and depth perception.
Work Environment:
* Work is performed in a chemical laboratory with exposure to hazardous substances.
* Adherence to safety protocols and usage of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory.
* The noise level is generally moderate.
* May involve handling flammable, reactive, and toxic chemicals.

Travel
* As needed, travel may be required for various purposes, including attending industry conferences or collaborating with other research facilities.
* Typically involves travel within the country and lasts for short durations (1-3 days).

Compensation Package Overview:
Compensation Range $75,000.00 - $95,000.00 annual salary USD
Potential bonus: Up to 3% based on performance.

Full Time Eligible Benefits Overview:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) package to support work-life balance following state and local ordinances.
- Optional 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions.

The information above provides a general overview and may vary based on specific job responsibilities, location, or other factors. Details will be clarified during the hiring process.

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WHY JOIN US?

• Because you would contribute to an inspiring Public Health purpose, supported by long-term and visionary shareholders.
• Because you would have an impact on our strategic pillars that build on 60 years of experience and expertise.
• Because you would be part of a community of an enthusiastic and skilled group of people who love co-building together and serving a purpose bigger than them.
• Because you would be welcome as you are, in a diverse and open-minded environment that is rich in our singularities and differences.
• Because you would grow in an international group of more than 10,000 fantastic team members, with plenty of opportunities to learn and share.

Ready for the journey?

To apply please click on 'Apply now' button