Plant Chemist

Location: Rapid City, SD

Compensation: $90,000–$105,000 + More!

Bonus: 10%

A large industrial manufacturing facility is seeking a Cement Plant Chemist to support product quality, laboratory operations, and process optimization. This role is ideal for a detail‑oriented chemistry professional with hands‑on cement plant laboratory experience and strong analytical capabilities.

The Cement Plant Chemist performs chemical and physical testing, evaluates raw materials and finished products, and supports continuous improvement initiatives within a fast‑paced plant environment. This position works closely with operations teams to maintain product specifications, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive quality excellence.

• Perform chemical and physical testing of cement, clinker, raw materials, kiln feed, fuels, and related materials following ASTM, AASHTO, CCRL, and other industry standards
• Conduct laboratory analyses using XRF, XRD, microscopy, and other instrumentation
• Monitor raw materials, kiln feed, clinker, and cement quality; provide recommendations to maintain product specifications
• Calibrate, maintain, and verify laboratory equipment
• Analyze coal, alternative fuels, gypsum, chlorides, and supplementary cementitious materials
• Develop and maintain laboratory procedures and quality control standards
• Perform clinker and cement microscopy to identify process or material performance issues
• Support investigations into quality concerns, process changes, and new product development
• Participate in proficiency testing and benchmark laboratory performance
• Assist with budgeting, lab improvements, and automated lab system maintenance
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, efficiency, and cost optimization
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment
• Provide guidance to lab technicians and support supervisory duties when needed

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry (Experience in lieu of degree will also be considered)
• 2+ years of laboratory experience in a cement plant environment
• Strong proficiency with laboratory instrumentation, data analysis, and computerized tracking systems
• Ability to apply mathematical concepts including statistics, geometry, ratios, and proportions
• Previous supervisory experience preferred
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively with operations teams
• Commitment to safety, accuracy, and continuous improvement