Synthetic Chemist

Position Purpose: The primary purpose of this position is to serve as the lead Synthetic Chemist at the Transportation Security Laboratory (TSL).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Follows currently established standard operating procedures (SOPs) to synthesize homemade explosives (HMEs).
• Performs research to develop syntheses for new HMEs of interest.
• Performs quality control of HMEs synthesized at the TSL.
• Works directly with federal client to achieve the goals of the HME laboratory at the TSL.
• Performs wet chemistry (dilutions, extractions, etc.).
• Composes and reviews technical reports and SOPs.
• Composes, reviews, and executes test plans.
• Performs literature reviews.
• Safely handles explosive and other hazardous materials.
• Sources materials and submits purchase requests.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSA's):

• Required KSA's
  • Previous experience synthesizing and handling energetic material.
  • Good interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
  • Good listening skills.
  • Team player with a positive attitude.
  • Good working skills of software and tools necessary for job functions including Microsoft Office suite.
  • Preferred KSA's
    • Experience with measuring density and refractive index
    • Experience with IR, RAMAN, or NMR
    • Experience with using EasyMax for chemical syntheses

Education/Experience: Incumbent professional should have at least a bachelor's degree in chemistry with five to ten years of experience synthesizing energetic materials.

Certificates and Licenses: No specific certificates or licenses are required for this position.

Clearance: The ability to obtain a Secret clearance and Department of Homeland Security suitability is required for this position.

Supervisory Responsibilities: The incumbent professional may oversee junior level chemists performing Synthetic Chemistry tasks.

Working Conditions/ Equipment: The incumbent professional is expected to work and/or be available during regular business hours. He/she should also generally be available via e-mail or phone during non-business hours as needed to address critical issues or emergencies. He/she may be required to travel on behalf of the company up to 25%.

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.