Job Description

It's exciting to work for a company that makes the world measurably better.

We're committed to bringing safety, quality, and customer focus to the business of advanced ceramics manufacturing.

Job Title

Laboratory Materials Analyst I - Chemistry

Prepare samples and perform routine elemental analysis of ceramic and inorganic materials using ICP-OES and ICP-MS. Execute established analytical methods, interpret results at a foundational level, and produce accurate reports for internal customers under guidance from senior analysts and lab leadership.

Roles & Responsibilities:

Core Analytical Scope

• Perform routine elemental analysis of ceramic and inorganic materials using ICP-OES and ICP-MS within a defined chemistry testing scope.
• Execute established sample preparation and inorganic digestion procedures under documented methods and supervision.
• Support quantitative and qualitative analysis of major, minor, and trace elements as directed by senior analysts.
• Assist technicians instrument and method troubleshooting techniques for routine work.
• Execute complex studies with guidance from senior analysts. These could include method optimization, development, validation, and qualification.

Analytical Execution & Data Handling

• Prepare samples, collect data, and document results in accordance with approved procedures, standards, and quality requirements.
• Perform basic data review, calculations, and check for completeness and obvious anomalies.
• Generate accurate and timely technical reports for engineering, R&D, quality, and production stakeholders.
• Use standard statistical tools and calculations as defined in existing operating procedures.

Collaboration & Learning

• Work under the supervision of a lab supervisor or senior analysts.
• Collaborate closely with laboratory technicians on sample preparation, digestion setup, and instrument operation.
• Learn and apply best practices for contamination control, reagent handling, and trace-level analysis.
• Receive coaching and feedback to build technical knowledge.

Equipment & Lab Operations

• Perform routine cleaning, troubleshooting, and preventative maintenance of ICP instruments and supporting sample-prep equipment.
• Identify and report equipment or method issues to appropriate lab leadership.
• Accurately follow instrument operation, calibration, and documentation requirements.

Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Promote a strong safety culture and adhere to chemical-handling and PPE requirements, including work with acids and digestion reagents.
• Routinely handle strong acids (HF, HNO3, HCl, H2SO4), oxidizers, and high-temperature digestion processes while complying with safety procedures.
• Identify potential safety concerns and process inefficiencies, and communicate improvement opportunities to lab leadership.

Job Requirements:

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry highly preferred. Bachelor’s Degree in Materials Science, Physics, Raw Sciences, or a related field is applicable with appropriate laboratory experience.

Experience

• 4-years laboratory experience required:
  • College-level laboratory coursework with hands-on analytical or wet chemistry experience.
  • Compositional Analysis with spectroscopy or spectrometry technique.
  • Intermediate instrumentation experience with troubleshooting.
• Strongly Preferred:
  • Experience with ICP-OES, ICP-MS, or inorganic sample preparation.
  • 1-2 years’ experience with method development, validation, and/or qualification.
  • Experience with hydrofluoric acid.
  • Ceramic or inorganic experience.

Functional/Technical Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to follow structured analytical procedures with attention to detail and data quality.
• Familiarity with basic wet chemistry and sample preparation techniques; exposure to inorganic digestion is a plus.
• Comfortable using laboratory software, LIMS, spreadsheets, and instrument-vendor software.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and teamwork.
• Ability to perform basic statistical calculations and data checks.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and self-motivated, with a demonstrated willingness to learn and develop technical expertise.

Position-Specific Physical Requirements

• Required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment in laboratory work areas.
• May handle hazardous chemicals, including acids, bases, and solvents.
• May prepare samples using high-temperature equipment such as furnaces or hot plates.

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Target Hiring Range

Annual Salary: USD 73,342.00 - USD 96,811.00

Actual compensation is commensurate with experience, skills and education. CoorsTek strives to give all qualified applicants equal opportunity and to make selection decisions on job related factors. Do not provide any information on the application which will indicate your race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law or regulation.

If you like working for a company that makes a real difference in the world, you'll enjoy your career with us!