Senior Scientist, Analytical Chemistry

Electra is reinventing ironmaking from the ground up with a breakthrough electrochemical technology that produces high purity clean iron and critical co‑minerals. With two operating pilots in Boulder and a new demonstration facility underway in Jefferson County, we’re on track to reach commercial scale by the end of the decade. Backed by over $300 million and strategic partnerships with global leaders across mining, steel, and big tech, momentum is on our side.

Recognized by Fast Company as a Most Innovative Company and a Next Big Thing in Tech, and named one of TIME’s 100 Climate Leaders, we’re building a company shaping the future of industry. If you’re looking to make an impact and join a team that’s driven, focused, and scaling, we want to hear from you.

As a Senior Scientist on the Analytical Chemistry team, you will serve as a technical leader in the analysis of metals and complex solid matrices, supporting R&D, engineering, and scale‑up initiatives. This role owns X‑ray‑based analytical capabilities (e.g. XRF/XRD), including method development, optimization, and advanced troubleshooting of instrumentation. You will lead and mentor technicians and junior scientists, drive best practices in sample preparation, and influence analytical strategy across projects.

• Lead and perform complex sample analyses, ensuring high‑quality, timely data delivery aligned with project priorities
• Own instrumentation performance, including advanced troubleshooting, preventative maintenance strategies, and continuous improvement of system and uptime
• Apply exceptional attention to detail in data generation, review, and validation to ensure scientific integrity
• Define, lead, and execute analytical chemistry projects that improve data quality, throughput, and laboratory efficiency
• Translate complex analytical results, assumptions, and uncertainties into clear insights for technical and non‑technical stakeholders
• Develop, validate, and implement advanced analytical methods to support evolving R&D and engineering needs
  
  Author, review, and standardize SOPs and technical documentation to ensure consistency and scalability
• Evaluate emerging technologies and drive adoption of new methodologies that enhance analytical capabilities
• Contribute to laboratory operations and continuous improvement initiatives, including workflow optimization and lab organization
• Read, understand, and comply with all workplace health and safety policies, safe work practices, and company policies and procedures
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related field and 8+ years of industry experience in analytical chemistry; or Master’s degree in Analytical Chemistry or a related field and 6+ years of industry experience; or PhD in Analytical Chemistry or a related field and 3+ years of industry experience (experience excludes internships, co‑ops, and academic projects)
• Deep expertise in analytical chemistry with a strong focus on metals analysis in solid matrices
• Proven experience with XRF and/or XRD analysis, including instrument maintenance, troubleshooting, and method development
• Experience with a broad range of analytical instrumentation, including ICP‑OES, ICP‑MS, microwave digestion systems, fluxers, and C/S elemental analyzers
• Demonstrated ability to lead and execute complex analytical projects independently
• Strong ability to analyze complex data sets and solve ambiguous technical problems
• Strong technical judgment in selecting and adapting advanced analytical methods
• Proven ability to mentor and guide analysts and technicians on complex procedures
• Ability to influence cross‑functional teams and effectively communicate with both technical and non‑technical stakeholders
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced, evolving environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex findings into clear insights
• Proficiency with, or ability to quickly learn, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, One Drive, SharePoint)