Chemistry Team Member

Job Summary

Chemistry team member role responsible for daily chemical analysis, bath make-ups and adjustments, wastewater treatment system operation, regulatory compliance documentation, and overall lab safety/organization in a high-volume metal plating facility. This position combines advanced wet-chemistry skills with light environmental oversight and team leadership in a fast-paced, CUPA-regulated environment.

DUTIES

- Perform daily sampling and analysis of all plating and rinse tanks (acid-base, redox, complexometric titrations; metal concentration, pH, ORP, conductivity).

- Execute all pH adjustments, chemical additions, and complete bath make-ups/replenishments.

- Prepare, standardize, and verify all titrants, reagents, and calibration standards.

- Schedule and perform dumping/replenishing of process and rinse tanks.

- Track chemical inventory, order lab supplies, and manage storage areas (including 55-gal drums and bulk totes).

- Calibrate lab instruments and verify accuracy of all measurements.

- Keep laboratory and chemical storage areas clean, organized, and audit-ready.

- Safely handle and maneuver full drums/barrels of chemicals (500–700 lbs) using drum dollies, lifts, or forklifts (upon certification).

- Train and supervise 1–3 lab technicians on procedures, safety, and documentation.

- Act as backup Emergency Coordinator for chemical spills or releases (per Emergency Response Plan).

- Adhere to and maintain proper safety procedures (i.e. PPE, proper chemical handling, proper chemical storage)

- Perform other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

- None

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy

- Strong safety-first mindset with hazardous materials

- Reliable, consistent attendance and follow-through

- Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills

- Team player with clear communication

- Highly organized and proactive

- Adaptable to changing production demands (i.e. overtime, weekends (as needed))

- Problem solving skills

PHYSICAL / ENVIRONMENTAL / CHEMICAL REQUIREMENTS

- Regularly lift 30–50 lbs unassisted; occasionally maneuver 500–700 lb drums with equipment

- Exposure acids, caustics, and temperature extremes

- Must pass annual respiratory fit-testing and wear PPE as required

- Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS

- Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Technology, or related field strongly preferred (significant plating lab experience may substitute)

- 5+ years of hands-on plating lab experience (nickel, chrome, zinc, anodize, electroless, etc.) strongly preferred

- Titration skills and understanding of plating bath chemistry

- Experience operating and troubleshooting wastewater treatment systems

- Basic computer capabilities (Word, Excel, Outlook)

- Strong math aptitude and excellent written/oral communication

- Valid CA driver’s license and clean DMV record

LANGUAGE SKILLS

- Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

- Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.

- Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

- Ability to direct staff with authority.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

- Current Drivers License

BENEFITS

- Medical (Employer 75% / Employee 25%)

- Dental (Voluntary - 100% Employee)

- Vision (Voluntary - 100% Employee)

- 401(k) with match

- PTO

- Annual safety-boot and safety-glasses allowance

- Opportunity for overtime

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 – 60 per week

Benefits:

- 401(k) matching

- Dental insurance

- Health insurance

- Life insurance

- Paid time off

- Parental leave

- Vision insurance

Work Location: In person