• Research Chemist

    Amentum (Kern County, CA)


    The Applied Materials Group at the Air Force Research Laboratory is seeking a chemist with a passion for R&D. With a variety of basic and applied research projects, no two days are alike. The group’s current research projects include development of new additive manufacturing materials and technologies for aerospace applications, exploration of next-generation propellant materials, synthesis of new ionic liquids for aerospace applications, and a dash of chemical analysis to support flight operations.

     

    As part of a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary group, the ideal candidate should be a team-player that is also capable of conducting independent research. This opportunity is perfect for an entry- or mid-level chemist seeking to have ownership over a project while supporting other research activities to support the Department of Defense.

     

    This is a full-time position with benefits that you can enroll in which includes - Health, Dental, Vision, Short and Long Term Disability, 401k, 11 Paid Holidays, PTO, and Paid Sick Leave. The salary range for this position is $52K to $86K.

    The selected candidate will:

    - Perform chemical synthesis and analysis of target materials (small molecule and/or polymer).

     

    - Analyze materials using analytical instrumentation (e.g. NMR, FTIR, UV-vis, DSC, TGA).

     

    - Utilize and maintain state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation.

     

    - Prepare, write, and present technical data in the form of oral and written reports.

     

    - (Optional) Occasionally travel to conferences, training, or workshops for professional development.

     

    - U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain a security clearance.

     

    - BS or MS in Chemistry or related field.

     

    - 0-3 years of experience performing chemical synthesis (organic, inorganic, or polymer).

     

    - Familiarity with modern analytical methods (NMR, FTIR, HPLC, MS, etc.) and common synthetic techniques.

     

    - Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.

     

    - Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

     

    - Ability and desire to learn new techniques and skills.

     

    - Familiarity with common purification techniques (crystallization, distillation, chromatography, etc.) and/or polymer synthesis, modification, and processing is a plus.

     

    - Familiarity with additive manufacturing (3D printing) also a plus.

    Essential Functions

    Unusual or Special Physical Requirements of Position

    + Lifting: Up to 25 pounds for short durations (<10%)

    + Climbing: No

    + Crawling: No

    + Special clothing/equipment (wearing): Chemical laboratory PPE (60%)

    + Unusual physical requirements: No

    + High noise level: No

    + Other: Extended periods of standing or sitting.

    Description of Work Environment

    + Inside? Outside? Combination? Where?: Primarily inside (90%)

    + Extreme (hot/cold) temperatures involved: No

    + Hazardous conditions - What are they?: Yes, energetic materials

    + Travel/transportation requirements: Driver’s License

    Equipment and Machines Involved in Work Tasks

    + Office equipment/machines electrically/battery operated - which?: Yes, various, 10-40%

    + Vehicles, forklifts, etc. operated which?: Car (10%)

    + Tools used in trade - which ones?: No

    Criticality of Attendance

    + Overtime, regular days, off days: No

    + Shift, 1st, 2nd, 3rd: 1st

    + Necessity for regular attendance: Yes

    + Urgency for punctuality: Yes