Chemist

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 to hire a Chemist to take active roles within our Research & Development (R&D) team. The ideal candidate must have experience with analytical instrumentation as well as catalytic transformations and catalyst synthesis and development.

In this position, you will be responsible for the development of synthetic routes to our different bio-material targets. This role combines hands-on laboratory R&D work while focusing on research, development, product improvement, process-design, and scale-up while collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

• Develop test matrixes and perform small scale reactions in glassware.
• Support the development of catalysts and synthetic schemes for our chemical targets.
• Develop and execute sample preparation and testing programs to evaluate material properties and performance.
• Manage, analyze, and interpret test results, and clearly communicate scientific findings to project team members to support project objectives.
• Hands-on experience operating batch reactors, distillation systems, chemical pumps, and pressure vessels safely and effectively.
• Design, plan, and perform laboratory experiments independently or with a team.
• Design, plan, and execute experiments to optimize chemical parameters.
• Experience using glove boxes to handle air-and moisture-sensitive compounds.
• Support in the development of standard operating procedures and progress reports.
• Operate and maintain equipment used in chemical processing and testing.
• Perform research of synthetic routes of chemistry and characterization of the materials with various techniques.
• 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.
• Support team members in the proper handling, preparations, and management of chemical substances using appropriate PPE.
• Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies in chemistry, materials research, and characterization techniques to enhance research efficiency.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior level staff.
• Maintain accurate and complete laboratory records, including notebooks, test results, and data, in accordance with company guidelines on documentation, storage, and control.
• Develop and maintain a strong working knowledge of laboratory and/or production test procedures.
• Exhibit strong communication, organization, documentation, and computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Suite and related programs.
• Performs additional duties as assigned by the Manager/Supervisor or designated leadership.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry with three to seven years of experience working in organic chemistry fields.
• MS Degree in Organic Chemistry preferred with two to five years of industry or relevant academic experience.
• 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.
• Prior experience using hand and power tools is essential.
• Strong knowledge of chemical principles is required.
• Experience in project management and mentoring staff is a plus.
• Strong communication and documentation skills, with a demonstrated ability to accurately record, analyze, and present experiment data to inform strategic decision.
• 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 operation 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