Chemical Engineer

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Innovative Materials and Processes, Inc. (IMP) is a small business specializing in research, development, and testing of explosive devices and advanced chemical handling systems for U.S. Government applications. With over 25 years of experience supporting the U.S. Army and Navy, we combine energetics expertise with cutting-edge automation and advanced manufacturing techniques. Our facilities in South Dakota and Missouri are structured for R&D, process automation and development, and transition to scalable production environments.

Position Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Chemist or Chemical Engineer to lead research and development projects focused on energetic materials and green chemical replacement initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in hazardous and energetic material handling, a demonstrated ability to develop and transition novel formulations, and the organizational and communication skills necessary to manage laboratory operations and customer-facing programs.

This role will work closely with laboratory technicians to execute experimental work, conduct data analysis, prepare technical documentation, and present findings to internal teams and government customers. The position will also participate in writing technical proposals and shaping future R&D opportunities in energetic materials.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead formulation development efforts and related projects to support U.S. Government contract activities.
• Conduct chemical processing and performance testing of energetic and reactive materials.
• Supervise laboratory workflow, and experimental protocols.
• Interface with customers and present technical progress, results, and final deliverables.
• Perform data analysis and statistical evaluation of test results.
• Write technical reports, internal memos, and scientific presentations.
• Support and contribute to proposal writing for DoD-funded R&D projects.
• Provide subject matter expertise on energetic materials, safety practices, and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in energetic materials, explosives formulation, or hazardous chemical processing
• Experience in analytical instrumentation (e.g.: DSC, TGA, FTIR, GC-MS, HPLC, UV-Vis)
• Familiarity with chemical and thermal hazards, risk assessment, and lab safety protocols
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data analysis tools (e.g.: Excel, JMP, Minitab)
• Strong technical writing skills and experience preparing reports for government or industry clients
• Demonstrated experience in laboratory supervision and project leadership

Preferred:

• Prior experience leading or contributing to DoD-funded research programs
• Familiarity with energetics-related regulations (ATF, DOT, DoD directives)
• Experience scaling up chemical processes or transitioning R&D to pilot-scale

We offer:

• Up to 10% travel expected to support customer engagements, technical reviews, or collaborative research activities
• The opportunity to lead meaningful R&D in a high-impact national defense domain
• Close collaboration with technical experts in a fast-paced, hands-on environment
• Access to specialized facilities for hazardous materials R&D
• Competitive salary and benefits package
• A flexible and supportive small team culture

• Seniority level
  
  Mid-Senior level

• Employment type
  
  Full-time
• Industries Research Services

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