Senior Scientist

About CycloKinetics

CycloKinetics, is advancing the next generation of high-performance propellants for aerospace and defense. Our highly innovative technology allows us to harness existing energy from biomass and convert it to superior performance fuels and propellants across aviation, aerospace, and defense applications.

We are a team of engineers, scientists, and operators driven by performance, innovation, and national security impact focused on building scalable, domestic energy solutions that power the future of propulsion. CycloKinetics is based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Scientist to take an active role within our Research & Development (R&D) team. The successful candidate will have experience with batch chemical reactors as well as catalytic transformations and catalyst synthesis and development. This individual will be responsible for the development of synthetic routes to our different bio-material targets. The ideal candidate will lead the innovation in chemical process development, spanning from early-stage research through pilot and commercial-scale production. This role combines hands-on laboratory work with strategic oversight, focusing on product improvement, process design, and scale-up.

This position requires strong scientific acumen, leadership skills, and the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. At this level, the role will involve leading or mentoring other chemical R&D staff, providing technical guidance, and supporting team performance to ensure alignment with organizational goals.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage scientific research projects leading from conceptualization to laboratory-scale testing and validation.
• Responsible for supporting daily operational processes involving the handling, preparation, and management of various chemical substances using the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Safely handle, measure, mix, and transport chemical substances in accordance with established procedures using appropriate PPE.
• Operate and maintain equipment used in chemical processing and testing.
• Supervise and support team members in the proper handling, preparations, and management of chemical substances using appropriate PPE.
• Design, plan, and perform laboratory experiments independently or with a team.
• Design, plan, and execute complex experiments to optimize chemical parameters.
• Develop catalysts and design synthetic pathways for our chemical targets.
• Analyze, interpret, and clearly communicate complex scientific data.
• Develop and implement testing programs to evaluate sample properties.
• Utilize and interpret analytical data from analytical instrumentation such as GC, HPLC, GPC, MS, spectroscopy, and other laboratory equipment.
• Manage test results and distribute them to appropriate departments.
• Develop and optimize experimental protocols and procedures.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and other stakeholders to bridge lab-scale discoveries with pilot-scale operations, ensuring robust and scalable process design.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior members of the R&D team.
• Work in collaboration with other teams to achieve department and company goals.
• Establish and improve laboratory procedures and processes by addressing concerns/issues and risks.
• Interact with project team members in developing and executing project objectives.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and detailed progress reports.
• Stay current with technological advancements and apply new methods to enhance process efficiency.
• Lead the preparation of technical reports, publications, and patent filings.
• Maintain accurate and complete laboratory records, including notebooks, test results, and data, in accordance with company guidelines on documentation, storage, and control.
• Participate in meetings and planning sessions, providing work updates or summaries as requested.
• Maintain satisfactory performance and behavior in accordance with company expectations.
• Develop and maintain a strong working knowledge of laboratory and/or production procedures.
• Assist with the documentation and methods used for product development, scale-up, and implementation.
• Exhibit strong organizational, documentation, communication, and computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and related programs.
• Must be able to function within a team environment.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Manager/Supervisor or designated leadership.

Education & Experience:

• Doctoral Degree in Chemistry with at least five years’ experience of post-doctoral training, preferably in an industrial setting.
• Extensive experience in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Proven track record of scientific accomplishment (e.g., publications, patents, successful project delivery).
• Proven ability to plan and manage R&D processes for maximum efficiency and productivity.
• Candidates with a background in biorefinery, petroleum, or chemical industries are highly encouraged to apply.
• This position requires the use of a respirator in accordance with OSHA safety standards as part of the essential job functions. Candidates must be able to pass a respirator fit test, which includes being clean-shaven in areas where the respirator seals the face.
• Strong knowledge of chemical principles is required.
• Experience in project management and mentoring junior staff is a plus.
• Excellent leadership, project management, organization, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and documentation skills, with a demonstrated ability to accurately record, analyze, and present complex experimental data to inform strategic decisions.
• Demonstrated proficiency in common computer tools and web-based applications is required.
• Prior experience successfully participating in work teams where personal accountability, attention to detail, collaboration, and results were required is essential.
• Highly detail-oriented and organized, with a proactive, self-driven approach and demonstrated record of taking initiative to drive scientific and operational goals.

Physical Demands

Frequent lifting and moving of items up to fifty (50) pounds*, bending, reaching above shoulder level, climbing stairs, pulling, prolonged standing or sitting may be required. Must have safe work habits and perform all duties in accordance with company safety policies. Personal protective equipment is provided by the company, and its use is mandatory.

General: This position is based in Salt Lake City, Utah with work performed on-site. CycloKinetics is an At-Will, VEVRAA, Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, E-Verify, and Drug Free Workplace. 

Benefits: CycloKinetics offers a competitive compensation and benefits package (health, dental, vision, employee and dependent life coverage(s) and accidental death and dismemberment, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401k matching, PTO, holiday pay, parental leave, and bonus potential).

EEO Statement: CycloKinetics is an Equal Opportunity Employer and embraces diversity in our employee population. We are excited to work with talented individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. All employment decisions at CycloKinetics are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or special disabled veteran, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

FLSA Classification: Exempt