Production Chemist

The Production Chemist is responsible for assisting in the manufacture of synthetic DNA & RNA compounds. The role manufactures and evaluates ChemGenes products according to established protocols, provides technical support to others and performs operations in support of the group and department. Responsible for the subassembly formulation, raw material preparation and/or processing, QC testing reagent or component formulation and some in-process testing. Demonstrates potential for technical proficiency, scientific creativity, and collaboration with others and independent thought.

Works on complex problems in which analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of various factors. Exercises judgment within broadly defined practices and policies in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. May determine methods and procedures on new assignments and may provide guidance to other lower level personnel.

Essential Job Functions

The major tasks and duties of the job include but are not limited to:

• Manufacture of synthetic DNA & RNA compounds.
• Follows the current processes for manufacturing, storage, and transportation methods.
• Adheres to current hazardous material regulations and follows hazardous material spill response protocols.
• Gathers, interprets and analyzes analytical data.
• Ensures materials are prepared in a timely fashion.
• Changes and dispenses materials for production, as necessary.
• Participates in customer and regulatory audits, as necessary.
• Maintains accurate and detailed product, process, instrument, and training records.
• Adheres to all departmental protocols, rules, contamination controls, and safety procedures and understands the requirements of ISO 9001:2008.
• Operates Rotary Evaporators, Chillers, Column Chromatography, and small scale reactors; with the synthesis of DNA & RNA intermediate chemicals.
• Perform Column Chromatography: small scale (on the bench) & large scale.
• Assists with analytical testing on incoming raw materials.
• Follow protocols for research projects, and compile results of standard and nonstandard tests.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOP) of standard products; ensure that the testing results are within standard operating procedures (SOP) and report any deviations to Senior Production Chemists.
• Assist Senior Production Chemists as needed.
• May supervise Junior Production Chemists and Laboratory Assistants.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunction and equipment maintenance.
• Communicate with QC & QA department to update/create certificate of analysis (COA’s).
• Maintain timely documentation of work.
• Evaluate data & prepare technical reports.
• Perform general lab maintenance as necessary.
• Demonstrates behavior consistent with ChemGenes’ Core Values.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

Core Competencies

At the career level, continuing to learn (and may have mastered some) the following competencies:

• Scientific Knowledge:
  • Analytical approach to defining scientific questions
  • Design of scientifically testable hypotheses
  • Broad-based knowledge acquisition
  • Interpretation and analysis of data
• Research Skill Development:
  • Laboratory techniques and safety
  • Data analysis and interpretation
• Communication Skills:
  • Strong writing, speaking, and teaching skills
• Interpersonal skills:
  • Style, tone and nonverbal cues
  • Works well with others
• Project Management and Time Management:
  • Establishing priorities and outlining project goals and outcomes
  • Planning the project timeline
  • Effective collaboration
• Honesty & Integrity:
  • Takes personal responsibility for correcting problems or issues.
  • Holds themselves to the highest ethical standards within the industry

Preparation, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• B.S, M.S. or Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Biology or related field; 5+ years related industry experience.
• Ability to use all automated laboratory equipment.
• Computer literacy and experience with Laboratory Information Systems.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, along with good mathematical skills.
• Ability to follow company SOPs and perform complex laboratory protocols successfully.
• Good record keeping and documentation of experiments and processes.
• Understands and applies basic laboratory safety instructions, reagent handling precautions, and disposal of chemical waste according to local environmental regulations.
• Must be able to work in a team atmosphere, have experience in aseptic techniques, and have a positive attitude toward work environment.

Supervisory Responsibility

May supervise Junior Production Chemists and Laboratory Assistants.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

The work will be performed at the ChemGenes’ laboratory which requires the ability to stand, walk, sit, push, pull, reach, carry, lift, grasp, squat or stoop; bend and twist the body while performing essential duties; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls, reach with hands and arms, climb stairs, talk or hear. The employee must have the ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.