Analytical Chemist

Summary of Position

This individual supports various departments within Imbibe by providing analytical chemistry support to the Research & Development, Quality Control, and Operations teams.  Their focus will be on GC operations, capability improvements, and building critical databases for ongoing production.

Essential Job Duties

• Primarily responsible for the execution of methods for the analysis of raw materials, flavors, and finished goods. Execute methods for the analysis of food and flavor-related samples using chromatography (GC/MS, UHPLC), solvent extraction, headspace extraction, SPME, etc.
• Perform analytical testing of volatile and non-volatile components in foods, beverages, flavors, extracts, and essences.
• Performs analysis of raw materials used in the manufacture of flavors for both their purity and for an identification and internal library mapping.
• Train in method development for the analysis of food and flavor-related samples using chromatography (GC/MS, UHPLC), solvent extraction, headspace extraction, SPME, etc.
• Learn chromatographic methods for use in identifying and quantifying flavor materials.
• Provide detailed, well-reviewed volatile analysis results using Agilent Chemstation and Excel reporting.
• Engage with other departments, both within and outside of R&D, to promote existing capabilities as well as determine areas for improvement.
• Performs routine and non-routine maintenance, troubleshoots, and resolves equipment malfunctions as they arise on analytical chromatography equipment while providing support to ensure that analytical laboratory equipment is maintained in proper working order.
• Coordinates maintenance from outside vendors as needed.
• Work with Senior Analytical Chemist to coordinate and improve flavor analysis methods within R&D and QC.
• Coordinate testing methodologies between internal lab, customer labs and/or third-party labs.
• Manage day-to-day laboratory operations: workflow for all analysis, ordering of supplies, lab organization, safety, and cleanliness.
• Performs all duties following established laboratory procedures and establishes and documents new procedures as necessary.
• Possesses excellent presentation and communication skills, effectively translating analytical results into business drivers.
• Conduct independent research to keep abreast of scientific advances in the areas of analytical and flavor chemistry.

Minimum Qualifications

• S. degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or related field
• 0-2 years of experience with quantitative chemical analysis and creating analytical methodologies.
• Familiar with laboratory experimentation and data analysis skills
• This position requires the handling of food grade chemicals and ingredients for food and beverage with strong odors.
• This position requires the use of personal protective equipment and clothing, including but not limited to lab coats, safety glasses, gloves, face masks, respirators, ear protection, etc.
• Must be able to sit, stand, or remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time.
• May occasionally need to move, lift, or transport containers of ingredients weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Exposure to food and beverage product tastings which may include allergens.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with the following equipment and software:
  • GC/MS (GC 6890 MS 5975 With a Gerstel MPS2 Autosampler, Agilent 7890B GC with 5977B MSD and Gerstel Pro 3 Autosampler)
  • U-HPLC (UPLC H-Class Waters with Empower 3 Software)
  • Agilent Chemstation

Working Conditions

• This is a full-time laboratory position
• Typical office setting for most desk work and paperwork including use of standard office equipment.
• Typical food/beverage laboratory and pilot plant setting for all hands-on development work including the use of standard laboratory equipment.