Food Chemist

Job Description

The Chemist I performs complex chemical analyses on raw materials, intermediates, finished products, auxiliary materials, and water to ensure quality, safety, and compliance. This role supports laboratory operations through method development, data integrity, and equipment maintenance, contributing to reliable analytical results within a regulated manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities:

• Perform advanced chemical and instrumental analyses on ingredients and finished products using GC, GC/MS, and MS.
• Maintain, troubleshoot, calibrate, and repair laboratory instrumentation; conduct preventive maintenance.
• Develop, validate, and optimize analytical methods, including sampling, monitoring, and capability studies.
• Conduct data audits, database queries, statistical process control (SPC), and correlation studies to ensure data accuracy.
• Inspect laboratory procedures for compliance with internal quality systems and external certifications; resolve non-conformances.
• Manage safe handling and disposal of chemicals and expired samples per schedules and regulations.
• Document results, generate reports, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related field, or equivalent work experience.
• 1–5 years of experience in analytical chemistry.
• Expert ability to integrate analytical techniques (e.g., GC, GC/MS, MS).
• Knowledge of organic chemistry, including essential oils and flavor compounds.
• Understanding of inorganic chemistry relevant to ingredients such as acidulants, oxygen, water, and buffers.
• Proficiency with formula management systems, data entry, calculations, reporting, and identifying data inconsistencies.
• Strong attention to detail, documentation skills, and commitment to laboratory safety and compliance.