Analytical Scientist I

Since 1936, millions of samples worldwide have been analyzed using LECO instruments for elemental analysis, thermal analysis, metallography, and mass spectrometry. Our comprehensive solutions for improving productivity include working with you to find the right equipment for the type of analysis you are doing — and providing you with the training, application support, and service you need to keep your lab running at its best.

For over 80 years, LECO has been a leader in the development and production of world class laboratory instruments delivering state of the art products nationwide and across the globe.

Located in St. Joseph, Michigan, LECO continues to be a family-owned company that understands the value of shared interests, long-term stability, loyalty, and trust.

ANALYTICAL SCIENTIST I

Job Description

Position Summary:

• Employees with the title Analytical Scientist I are members of the Analytical Group in LECO’s Research and Development Department.

• They work independently or as members of inter-disciplinary teams tasked with the development of new chemical analyzers and other products.

• They are primarily responsible for the operation, maintenance, and validation of chemical analyzers to ensure that they meet or exceed design specifications and requirements.

Schedule:

• Full Time: 8:00am – 5:00pm, Monday – Friday

Position Responsibilities:

• Responsibilities vary as tasks are assigned by R&D Staff, Product Leaders, and other members of the Analytical Team.

An Analytical Scientist I is expected to perform the following responsibilities with minimal supervision:

• Work safely in a laboratory environment

• Maintain a clean, organized workspace

• Follow procedures and instructions

• Prepare samples for analysis

• Operate and maintain analytical instruments

• Maintain organized records and logs

• Perform experiments, modify and refine experiments

• Review manuals and other technical publications

• Document experimental procedures and results

• Summarize and communicate experimental results

• Understand basic operating principles of analytical instruments

• Work as a member of a Product Development Team

• Assess instrument performance (comparison between instruments)

An Analytical Scientist I is expected to perform the following responsibilities with supervision:

• Solve instrument problems using systematic problem-solving techniques

• Validate analytical calculations

• Modify/validate instrument sequences

• Create analytical documents: flow diagrams, flow charts, critical calculations, parts lists

• Approve manuals and other technical publications

• Write Test Procedures

• Design experiments

• Interface with other departments (Test, Service, TSL, etc.) effectively when needed

• Train other departments and personnel

• Develop and perform POC tests, Analytical tests, Test Procedures, etc.

• Submit Engineering Change Notices

• Support customers via Service, Trainers, or Product Managers

• Support other departments as needed

• Propose/design concepts for POCs and prototypes

• Propose design improvements

• Supervise junior scientists

Position Requirements:

Expert

• Use business software tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, email, messaging)

Proficient

• Work safely in a laboratory setting, handle chemicals

• Apply the scientific process (systematic experimentation, careful observation, thorough documentation, repetition)

• Organize observations and information with attention to detail

• Compile, summarize, and present results

• Organize information and data

• Maintain notebook

• Use math and compute basic statistics

• Work independently with limited guidance

• Self-motivated, focused

• Ask appropriate questions, seek advice when necessary

Capable

• Work in a cooperative team environment

• Accept criticism and consider advice

• Understand operating principles of LECO instrumentation

• Apply good analytical techniques for sample preparation and analysis

• Operate, maintain, and service chemical analyzers

• Basic computer programming (MATLAB, LECO XML)

• Perform background research

• Design experiments

• Solve problems

• Identify creative solutions

Familiar

• Understands the LECO product development process

• Experience with LECO products and processes

• Demonstrate integrity, honesty, and reliability

• Demonstrate sound judgment, justify decisions

• Present information concisely

• Attend to detail, finish tasks

• Manage multiple projects and deadlines

• Mentor others

• Communicate efficiently with others

• Interact easily and efficiently with others, adapt style as needed

• Collaborate with other disciplines and departments

• Encourage effective teamwork

• Delegate tasks

• Forecast projects and schedule tasks

Education/Certifications:

• Master of Science degree in analytical chemistry (or related field), chemical engineering, or equivalent experience (minimum)

• Experience in analytical instrumentation testing or related field preferred