Development Chemist (at Gelest Inc.)

Description

• Document experiments, observations, and recommended improvements in lab notebooks and technical reports.
• Design and perform laboratory experiments involving synthetic organic reactions, route evaluation, optimization, and troubleshooting.
• Maintain awareness of industry developments, new technologies, and specialty chemical manufacturing best practices.
• Support process hazard assessments, safety reviews, and compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Scale laboratory processes to pilot and full production, ensuring robust transfer of technology and clear documentation.
• Utilize analytical techniques (GC, NMR, FTIR, MS) to characterize materials, monitor reactions, and assess process performance.
• Generate and analyze process data to identify improvement opportunities.

Requirements

• 1-3+ years of experience in specialty chemical synthesis, chemical process development, or scale-up preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, including technical reporting.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and operate a forklift.
• Must be able to climb ladders and stairs to collect samples and observe processes.
• Must be able to wear required PPE (safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hat; respirators as needed).
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation (GC, NMR, FTIR, MS) is preferred.
• Must be able to work 2nd shift: Four (4) 10-hour shifts, Monday–Thursday, 12:30 PM – 11:00 PM
• Hands-on experience with laboratory techniques and equipment preferred.
• Background in synthetic organic chemistry, including multi-step synthesis and reaction mechanism understanding is preferred.
• Experience with process development, including reaction kinetics, heat, and mass transfer, mixing, and scale-up considerations is preferred.

Benefits

• Eligibility for an annual performance bonus
• 401(k) with a competitive company match
• Generous paid time off
• Company-paid Life Insurance, AD&D, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and optional supplemental plans for employees and their families
• Company-provided uniforms, work boots, and PPE

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance