Analytical Chemist

Estes Energetics, along with its subsidiary Goex Industries, is an American manufacturer of black powder, chemicals, and rocket motors. Our agile and experienced team is proud to make products that support the Department of Defense, strengthen domestic production, preserve history, serve hunting and shooting sports enthusiasts, and ignite a passion for rocketry in our youth. Whether we’re performing research into energetic materials and products, or standing up American-made production, count on us to find a solution. 

Summary 

Estes Energetics is searching for an analytical chemist to join our chemical and rocket motor manufacturing operations in the Colorado Springs area. The analytical chemist will play a crucial role in supporting our research and development efforts by helping to stand up and operate new analytical chemistry capabilities which will be pivotal to advance our chemical and rocket motor manufacturing. In this role, you will work under the guidance of senior engineers and collaborate with cross-functional teams to contribute to the success of our projects. This is a great career opportunity for new graduates as well as those with experience in an analytical lab environment. 

Essential Functions  

• Conduct chemical experiments, tests, and analyses using established procedures and protocols. 
• Assist in the development and implementation of new chemical production processes, sampling methods, and test procedures. 
• Perform mechanical property, thermal stability, raw material analysis, and particle size analyses in support of rocket motor manufacturing. 
• Assist with selection of equipment to support expansion of a rocket motor manufacturing lab capabilities. 
• Record and document experimental procedures, data, and observations in a clear and organized manner and analyze data using appropriate software and methods. 
• Prepare technical reports and presentations summarizing findings. 
• Collaborate with colleagues on research projects, sharing insights and findings in team meetings. 
• Cooperate with government scientists to support updates and revisions to MILSPEC procedures. 
• Assist in the calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment. 
• Adhere to safety protocols and maintain a clean and well-organized laboratory environment. 
• Stay updated on industry trends, new technologies, and advancements in analytical chemistry. 

Competencies, Experience, and Education  

• BS or MS in Chemistry or a related field. 
• Prior internship or academic research in a laboratory environment preferred but not required. 
• Basic understanding of chemical reactions, analytical laboratory techniques, and laboratory instrumentation. 
• Experience with energetic materials preferred but not required. 
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects. 
• Strong attention to detail in conducting experiments and recording data. 
• Good verbal and written communication skills.  
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment. 
• Familiarity with safety procedures and protocols in a laboratory setting. 
• Eligible to obtain and maintain State and Federal explosives licenses including:                                             Be 21 years of age or older.                                                                                                                 Pass pre-employment drug test.                                                                                                           Pass State and Federal background checks. 

Supervisory Responsibility 

None

Salary

40,000 to 60,000 Depending on Experience 

Work Environment 

The work will be primarily in lab, office and manufacturing environments.

Physical Demands 

• Ability to lift 50 pounds. 
• Comfortable sitting, standing, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling. 
• Exposure to industrial machines, heat, cold, and explosives. 
• Frequent movement through a manufacturing environment. 
• Use of personal protective equipment appropriate to the work location. 

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work 

This is a full-time position. Typical workdays are on a 5-day week. Employees are expected to work 40 hours each week to maintain full-time status. Occasional overtime may be required during busy periods. 

Benefits 

Estes Energetics maintains a comprehensive benefits package including: 

• Health insurance through an ICHRA. 
• Life and disability insurance – 100% paid by company. 
• 401(k) retirement plan with 7% company match. 
• Single, comprehensive paid time off (PTO) policy. 

Work Authorization 

Must be a US citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident, or a protected individual as defined in 8 USC 1324b. 

Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Program 

Estes Energetics provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law. Additional information is available at: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/posters 

Other Duties 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.