Physical Characterization & Materials Analysis Scientist

Job Title

Physical Characterization & Materials Analysis Scientist

Altria (East Jackson St, Richmond) – Customer Site VA

The Scientist II, Physical Characterization and Materials Analysis performs advanced physical and structural characterization of tobacco, nicotine, aerosol, and related product materials. The role applies microscopy, spectroscopy, thermal analysis, and particle characterization techniques to support product development, analytical investigations, failure investigations, and regulatory studies. Working under the direction of client subject matter experts, the scientist independently plans and executes studies, interprets complex data, and partners with chemistry, aerosol, toxicology, and product development teams to advance scientific and business objectives.

• Perform physical and structural characterization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermal analysis, and particle sizing techniques.
• Conduct aerosol physical characterization, including particle size distribution (PSD), nicotine deposition, PM2.5, and particle number count measurements.
• Support aerosol collection activities and flex to support FTIR, thermal analysis, and SEM workloads across projects.
• Design and execute characterization studies that support product development and failure investigations.
• Interpret analytical data and prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Troubleshoot instrumentation and analytical methods.
• Support method development, validation, and technology transfer activities.
• Collaborate with chemistry, aerosol, toxicology, and product development teams.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and compliance with quality and safety requirements.
• Maintain training and compliance in areas of health and safety, security, environmental and operational aspects of daily activities.

• Hands‑on proficiency with SEM, FTIR, and thermal analysis instrumentation.
• Experience with particle sizing and aerosol physical characterization (PSD, nicotine deposition, PM2.5, particle number count).
• Ability to independently plan, execute, and interpret characterization studies.
• Strong data interpretation skills and ability to communicate complex results to technical and cross‑functional audiences.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong written and verbal communication.
• Proficiency with Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and other Microsoft products.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of laboratory experience with physical characterization techniques.

• Experience characterizing tobacco, nicotine, aerosol, or related consumer product materials.
• Experience supporting aerosol collection workflows.
• Experience authoring technical and regulatory documents.
• Experience working in a regulated or ICH compliant laboratory environment.

Must be able to work in a laboratory with controlled environments requiring personal protective equipment (e.g., lab coat, safety glasses). Job pace may be fast with high completion demands. Must remain stationary more than 25% of the time; occasionally move between labs, corridors, adjoining rooms, and buildings onsite. Frequently operate instruments, tools or controls requiring bending, squatting, stretching and reaching. Occasionally lift up to 25 pounds, with potential for up to 50 pounds.

Must observe close‑range vision, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. May need to handle hazardous waste according to local, state, and federal regulations, including identifying, handling, generating, accumulating, storing, and labeling hazardous waste. May require medical clearance, respiratory protection training, and fit testing to wear a respirator as protection against hazards present in the laboratory environment.

The annual compensation range for this full‑time position is $80,000 to $92,000. The final base pay offered will be determined by factors including internal equity, work location, and individual qualifications, such as job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Perkin Elmer is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability status, age, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law. Perkin Elmer is committed to a culturally diverse workforce.