Analytical Chemist

Job Title:

Analytical Chemist

Job Description

This contract role supports a rapid improvement project in analytical chemistry, focusing on color and texture analysis for food products. You will develop and validate analytical methods, work with color measurement and texture analysis instrumentation, and translate client formulations to internal equipment capabilities. The position combines predominantly desk-based method development and documentation with hands-on laboratory validation.

Responsibilities

+ Lead analytical activities for a rapid improvement project in analytical chemistry, with a focus on color and texture evaluation of food products.

+ Utilize Hunter color instruments (Color Measurement Spectrophotometer) and colorimetry techniques to measure and interpret product color.

+ Perform texture analysis using appropriate instrumentation and methods to assess product properties.

+ Develop, write, and optimize analytical methods, ensuring they are clear, robust, and reproducible.

+ Validate new and existing analytical methods in the laboratory, including testing, documenting results, and refining procedures as needed.

+ Evaluate and test new analytical instrumentation to determine suitability, performance, and reliability for project needs.

+ Review client formulations and translate them into workable formulations using internal instrumentation and analytical capabilities.

+ Troubleshoot differences between client instrumentation and internal equipment, and devise approaches to replicate or approximate client results.

+ Document all analytical procedures, validation protocols, and results in a clear and organized manner for future reference and quality control.

+ Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure analytical methods meet project requirements and support product quality objectives.

Essential Skills

+ 5-10 years of experience in analytical chemistry or a closely related analytical role.

+ Knowledge in analytical chemistry, including method development and validation.

+ Hands-on experience with texture analysis techniques and instrumentation.

+ Proven ability to write clear, detailed analytical methods and standard operating procedures.

+ STEM degree (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics).

+ Experience working within a quality-focused environment, such as quality control or analytical testing.

+ Ability to interpret and apply client formulations to internal laboratory equipment and processes.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Experience in the food industry, particularly with analytical testing of food products.

+ Direct experience with Hunter color instruments and colorimetry methods.

+ Knowledge in quality control within a manufacturing or laboratory setting.

+ Strong problem-solving skills for working with differing client and internal instrumentation.

+ Ability to manage project-based work within a defined timeframe, such as a 3‑month assignment.

Work Environment

You will work in an environment focused on developing and analyzing fruit-based products for dairy applications. The role involves a mix of office and laboratory settings, with a significant portion of time spent at a desk writing and refining analytical methods, and additional time in the lab validating those methods and testing instrumentation. The schedule offers flexibility in start times, with the option for reduced Friday hours during the summer and potential availability to work four 10-hour days.

You will work with modern analytical tools, including color measurement spectrophotometers, colorimetry systems, and texture analyzers, in a professional, quality-driven laboratory environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Brecksville, OH.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $36.00 - $40.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:  - Medical, dental & vision  - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital  - 401(k)…