Chemist Specializing in Energetic Materials

Battelle is at the forefront of delivering innovative solutions when others can't. We engage in research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products, and provide essential services to diverse clients including multinational corporations, small startups, and government agencies.

We value the contributions of individuals from varied backgrounds and experiences, and we invite all qualified candidates to apply.

Job Summary

Battelle is looking for a highly motivated and collaborative Chemist Specializing in Energetic Materials to join our Advanced Materials and Energetics (AME) Division, specifically within the High Energy Research Lab Area (HERLA). This position reports directly to HERLA management and involves executing current client programs, developing new business opportunities, and mentoring staff. You will engage in Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) of energetic materials and their components. Our dedicated Energetics Team includes experts in various areas such as munition design, explosives testing, advanced performance measurement, and the safe handling of energetic materials. The HERLA, a unique facility located on a 1200-acre site in West Jefferson, Ohio, holds certifications to manage a broad spectrum of energetic materials, ensuring safety and compliance in all operations.

Responsibilities

Execute and assist in data analysis, documentation, and communication with clients regarding projects linked to munitions, explosives, and small arms testing and evaluation.

Develop and implement safety documentation, integrating effective practices into all work performed.

Assist in troubleshooting technical challenges and safety hazards related to munitions and explosives testing and evaluation.

Conduct laboratory tasks, including synthesizing explosives, preparing formulations, and performing instrumental analysis of energetic materials.

Support the formulation and manufacturing of propellants, explosives, and pyrotechnics in the laboratory.

Participate in the design and planning of projects, potentially leading small teams of multidisciplinary scientists and technical staff within scope and budgetary constraints.

Document laboratory findings and results through drafting reports, presentations, and technical communications.

Contribute to the creation of posters, articles, and presentations for technical conferences.

Assist in technical writing for internal and external reports and presentations.

Support business development initiatives as required.

Communicate with project managers, principal investigators, and clients to understand expectations and ensure contract deliverables are achieved on time and within budget.

Key Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related discipline with 2 years of relevant experience in energetic materials research, development, and/or test and evaluation, or a Master's degree with 1 year of experience, or a PhD focused on energetics chemistry.

Experience in synthesizing and handling energetic and hazardous materials.

Familiarity with instrumental analysis of explosives, focusing on chemical, physical, and safety properties.

Exceptional oral and written communication skills.

US citizenship is required, along with the ability to obtain and maintain necessary government security clearances.

Physically capable of working in laboratory settings and field environments, including test chambers and munitions bunkers.

A proven ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with modeling and simulating explosive and energetic events.

Knowledge of safe handling practices for munitions and ordnance.

Hands-on experience with explosives formulation and passivation, including military and commercial explosives.

Proficiency in analytical chemistry techniques, including chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, and spectroscopy.

Experience in manufacturing energetic materials such as mix-cast-cure propellants and pressed explosives.

Benefits: Live an Extraordinary Life

We are dedicated to your well-being beyond just your work responsibilities. Battelle offers competitive benefits designed to support you as you lead your best life.

Achieve work-life balance: Enjoy a flexible, compressed work schedule that allows you extended weekends every other week.

Flexible work arrangements: Take advantage of our hybrid model, allowing for both in-office (60%) and remote (40%) work.

Take time to recharge: Paid time off enables you to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Prioritize your health: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage is provided, along with wellness incentives.

Support for you and your family: Benefits include partner coverage, gender-affirming care, and family support services.

Build your financial future: Enjoy a robust 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions and matching.

Advance your education: We offer tuition assistance for your pursuit of higher education.

A Work Environment Where You Thrive

At Battelle, we seek talented individuals in science, technology, engineering, and business operations to address humanity's challenges and enhance global security and health.

You will flourish in a culture that encourages you to:

Engage in challenging and meaningful projects.

Secure funding for scientific and technological pursuits.

Collaborate with leading experts in your field.

Mentor and cultivate the next generation of scientific leaders.

Contribute positively to your community.

Vaccinations & Safety Protocols

Battelle may require employees to adhere to specific safety protocols, including vaccinations, as a condition of employment based on job duties and client requirements. Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with applicable laws.

Battelle is an equal opportunity employer, committed to supporting equal treatment and advancement for all staff members without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, or any such protected characteristic. We strive to enable each employee to reach their full potential.

The responsibilities and qualifications outlined here are intended to convey the general nature of the work performed. They do not represent an exhaustive list of all tasks or skills required. No inference regarding authority to commit Battelle should be drawn from this description without prior written permission from Battelle's Legal Department.

For more information about our current openings, please visit our careers section.