Process Chemist

F

Futamura USA

Process Chemist

Tecumseh, KS
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    **FUTAMURA Symbol **

    **FUTAMURA USA **

    Futamura is committed to its employees and their families by offering one of the most competitive benefits packages in the market. We can likely beat your current company on insurance premium costs, levels of coverage, out of pocket expenses and savings toward retirement.

    Medical Insurance

    |

    401K + Company Match

    ---|---

    Dental Insurance

    |

    Flexible Spending Account

    Vision Insurance

    |

    Prescription Benefits

    Generous Paid Time Off

    |

    Company-Paid Disability Insurance

    |

    Company-Paid Life Insurance

    |

    The Process Chemist performs routine and non-routine analyses of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products. This role requires strong proficiency in analytical chemistry and the use of a wide range of analytical instruments and test methods to ensure product quality and support manufacturing operations. This position works in our Quality Control Department. Standard schedule is M-F 7:30 to 4 PM with flexibility based on business need.

    Primary Responsibilities

    • Provide laboratory support for plant trials by performing timely testing, delivering clear feedback, and maintaining a detailed database of trial conditions and outcomes.
    • Update and revise standard operating procedures as needed; support special projects involving analytical method development, instrument troubleshooting, and process validation.
    • Apply effective troubleshooting techniques to identify root causes and develop strategies to resolve issues using all available resources.
    • Collaborate with other departments to jointly troubleshoot process issues related to chemical analysis (e.g., composition, concentration, material properties).
    • Manage time effectively to complete tasks with minimal supervision.
    • Coordinate and plan high-priority work, including organizing meetings, setting timelines, and ensuring project milestones are met.
    • Establish reasonable deadlines for high-priority tasks, communicate timelines to the department head, and provide regular progress updates.
    • Work with technical teams to support research, product development, and process improvements.
    • Perform analytical testing using instruments such as:
      • High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
      • Gas Chromatography (GC)
      • Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)
      • Automated Titrator
      • Universal Testing Machine (UTM) for tensile, compression, and material strength testing
    • Calculate product characteristics including purity, particle size, and hardness.
    • Record sampling and testing data to maintain accurate and complete quality records.
    • Train lab technicians on laboratory procedures, equipment use, and quality standards.
    • Develop test methods required for quality laboratory analyses.
    • Prepare test solutions, reagents, and compounds for use by plant personnel.
    • Assist the QC Supervisor with analytical problem-solving and instrument-related projects.
    • Perform instrument calibrations.
    • Communicate and coordinate effectively with personnel across departments.
    • Create and maintain Quality Control trend analysis reports for assigned criteria.
    • Enter test results into the manufacturing system and/or communicate findings to the appropriate departments.
    • Perform other duties as assigned.

    Qualifications

    • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related field.
    • Strong competency in analytical chemistry, including hands-on experience with laboratory instrumentation and analytical techniques.
    • 2-4 years of experience in a Process Chemist or related laboratory role, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
    • Ability to work independently while adhering to company procedures and guidelines.
    • Demonstrated teamwork and collaboration skills.
    • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

    We make NatureFlex and Cellophane packaging films. These are biodegradable and compostable products to help reduce plastic pollution around the world! Since they are made from renewable wood pulp as a raw material, we essentially make transparent paper. Check out the process here.

    Compostable packaging is a rapidly expanding market. As a result, Futamura is in the process of a major expansion to keep up with the growing demand for our products. We are looking for good people with a drive for advancement to come join our team.

    The Futamura Group was established in Japan in 1950 and is now a global operation specializing in high added value packaging products. Our products are shipped around the world and are utilized by major brands and specialized markets.

    EEO/D/M/V/