Scientist I

Job Overview

Western Research Institute RenuMAT (Renewable Upcycling, Materials, and Asphalt Technologies) Team (Full-time with benefits)

Scientist I

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Scientist I to join our dynamic research and development team. In this entry-level role, you will contribute to the development, validation, and quality control of innovative products and processes. Your work will support compliance with industry standards and regulations, ensuring the highest quality outcomes. This position offers an exciting opportunity to grow your expertise in analytical chemistry, laboratory techniques, and regulatory compliance within a collaborative environment dedicated to scientific excellence.

SUMMARY:

Conduct chemical and physical laboratory experiments and analyses to determine the composition, molecular structure, and properties of substances to develop new materials and processes, and to investigate the transformations of the substances. This position will be required to perform a significant amount of high-temperature asphalt blending, aging, solvent extraction, solvent removal, and other asphalt-related duties. Attention to detail and good note-taking, labeling, cataloguing, and organization are necessary. Other duties, such as maintaining safety equipment and maintaining chemical inventory, are required. Understand overall goals for a project and how these goals will be achieved. Contribute to research projects from initial concept to completion.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS:

Entry level Scientist who works under immediate supervision to perform project specific duties. Has limited independence and discretion.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

Limited authority over technicians assigned to the same project.

JOB DUTIES:

The duties listed below represent the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific duties does not prevent the assignment of work that is appropriately related to this class.

· Follow safety protocols at all times. Maintain clean and safe operations, equipment, and work environment.

· Conduct chemical experiments, tests, and analyses using lab instrumentation and chemical procedures.

· Prepare test solutions, compounds, or reagents.

· Analyze organic and inorganic compounds to determine chemical and physical properties, utilizing analytical and wet chemistry techniques.

· Conduct research into composition, structure, properties, relationships, and reactions of matter.

· Operate chemical and mechanical testing equipment. Induce changes in composition of substances by introduction of heat, light, energy, pressure, vacuum, and catalysts.

· Record observations and results from tests and experiments.

· Prepare data, write-ups, and analyses for supervisory review.

· Recommend next steps to achieve project goals to appropriate supervisor.

· Participate in developing new measuring methods.

· Cognizant of deliverables for projects and whether the deliverables are being met under the constraints of a project.

· Maintain experimental apparatuses and laboratory equipment. Troubleshoot instrumentation, analytical equipment, and experiments as needed.

· Maintain laboratory inventory.

· Request and replace worn or damaged items.

· Perform other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Any combination of experience and education that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or equivalent field.

Experience:

Minimum of one year of relevant laboratory experience.

Knowledge of:

· Chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of chemical processes, and the transformations they undergo.

· Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications to the job duties.

· Safety policies and practices related to the safe handling, use, transportation, and disposal of chemicals and gases.

· Appropriate software necessary to maintain records, report results, and prepare reports and presentations.

Ability to:

· Operate and troubleshoot experimental apparatus, analytical equipment, and instrumentation.

· Understand information contained in Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and act accordingly in all areas of chemical management.

· Read, understand, and follow safety protocols and practices.

· Use and wear personal protective equipment properly and consistently.

· Collect, record, and analyze data.

· Prepare basic data interpretation, accurate and detailed reports, slides, and presentations.

· Adapt to changing circumstances and priorities and act proactively.

· Lift and move heavy objects in a safe manner.

· Work as a member of a team, foster a cooperative work environment, and contribute to advancing project goals.

· Collaborate with supervisor to advance project goals.

· Ability to travel domestically and internationally.

Physical and Mental Standards

The physical and mental standards described here are representative of those that must typically be met by employees to perform the essential functions of this class successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

· Frequently sit at a desk for extended periods of time.

· Frequently walk and stand in a laboratory environment for prolonged periods.

· Frequently use finger dexterity and operate a keyboard and laboratory equipment.

· Occasionally kneel and crouch. Crawling may occur rarely.

· Occasionally climb ladders and stairs.

· Occasionally lift and carry 50 pounds.

· Occasionally push and pull items weighing 50 pounds.

· Frequently use vision to read documents, view computer screens, and see close and distant objects.

· Frequently use speech and hearing to engage in conversation, in person, through virtual internet meetings, and over the telephone.

· Frequently exposed to heat, noise, fire, pressurized gases, and chemical hazards.

· Constant safety when navigating environments containing airborne particles, vapors/fumes/odors, and toxic or caustic chemicals.

· Constantly utilize mental and emotional acuity for detail recall, verbal instructions, emotional stability, discriminating thinking, and creative problem solving.

· In the event of an emergency, employee may be required to run short distances to evacuate a facility.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

· Noise level is moderate and may require hearing protection.

· Subject to heat above 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

· Respiratory personal protective equipment may be utilized.

· Mandatory use of personal protective equipment such as eye protection and gloves to protect against hazardous substances.

· Job duties may occasionally require working extended hours or hours outside of the regular schedule with supervisor approval.

To apply please send Cover letter and resume to:

Sabrina Ecker

Human Resources and Administrative Coordinator

secker@uwyo.edu

Pay: $50,000.00 - $77,400.00 per year

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- Dental insurance

- Flexible schedule

- Health insurance

- Health savings account

- Life insurance

- Paid time off

- Retirement plan

- Tuition reimbursement

- Vision insurance

Work Location: In person