HPLC CHEMIST - NEW JERSEY CANNALYTICS LLC

JOB DESCRIPTION:  

NJ Cannalytics is looking for a candidate that seeks a challenging position in an independent testing laboratory serving the New Jersey medical and adult-use cannabis markets. The successful candidate will be reliable, exhibit strong attention to detail and thrive in a fast-paced laboratory environment.

HPLC CHEMIST – MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• 21+ years old and subject to applicable employment requirements for the state of New Jersey for cannabis businesses, including but not limited to a criminal background check.
• 2 years of relevant, professional (non-academic) laboratory experience utilizing HPLC extraction, maintenance and analysis.
• Bachelor’s degree in a natural science, to include, but not be limited to, biology, chemistry, or environmental sciences, or 2 additional years of direct, professional experience**
• Strong attention to detail.
• Able and willing to work independently and collaboratively.

QC CHEMIST RESPONSIBILITIES

The QC Chemist is responsible and accountable for the laboratory’s HPLC methodologies, accurate testing of state-mandated and R&D analysis of cannabis samples submitted for testing, and the daily running, maintenance and troubleshooting of the analytical instrumentation, and applicable method discovery work as needed. As an employee within a cannabis testing laboratory, this position is always responsible for the safe, accurate and timely testing of cannabis and cannabis products and must comply with all expectations for complaint operations within a New Jersey cannabis business.

HPLC Chemist:  Testing of state required compliance testing for cannabinoid potency and Vitamin E acetate quantification, including additional R&D testing to support process-informed cultivation and manufacturing practices. The ideal candidate has a minimum of two years of professional experience of daily HPLC sample extraction, data analysis and advanced instrument maintenance and troubleshooting, paired with a bachelor’s degree (BS) in a hard science, **or 2 additional years of direct, professional experience evaluated at the discretion of management**. Cannabis experience preferred, but not required for the right candidate.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Follow policies and procedures for the daily operations and fully comply with state cannabis regulations.
• Adhere to current good documentation practices, cGDP, for the completion of laboratory documents, logs, forms, and worksheets.
• Accurately document sample weights and relevant data with great attention to detail.
• Works in a timely manner, strives to improve quality and maintain accuracy.
• Proficiently utilize Microsoft Excel and various laboratory information management systems.
• Appropriate use of personal protective equipment during laboratory activities.
• Participate in and endeavor to complete training and be determined competent for sample collection, preparation, interpretation, and analysis using aseptic techniques.
• Expertise in sample preparation, extraction techniques and testing methods using applicable analytical instrumentation.
• Initial and ongoing demonstrated competency of all HPLC-based methods, as determined by technical audits and successful completion of applicable proficiency testing.
• Participation and management of daily workflow, including independent sample preparation and data analysis, including compliant documentation of associated forms and logs.
• Analyze data from testing performed and submit to laboratory director or lab director designee for approval and release.
• Perform area and instrument cleaning, maintenance, calibration and troubleshooting as needed.
• Review, document, and approve test results and quality controls in laboratory information management system (LIMs.).
• Develop, perform, or assist in instrument qualification and method validations or verifications, as applicable.
• Peer leadership and stewardship for consistent use of good laboratory practices and safe handling, storage and disposal of Department reagents, supplies, and hazardous waste.
• Maintaining physical inventory, including supply management and ordering, on behalf of the instrument-specific department.
• Responsible for performing and maintaining an environmental monitoring and risk assessment for potential laboratory contamination.  
• Responsible for cleaning of lab glassware and general lab cleaning
• Performs all other tasks and duties as assigned by supervisor, which may include cannabis sampling and transport.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described below are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Work is performed in a production laboratory environment and requires use of personal protection equipment to limit exposure to chemicals or other hazards found within a laboratory environment.
• Work environment is fast-paced and will require frequent pivoting and multitasking, as well as the reprioritization of tasks based on demand/urgency.
• The work environment may expose employee to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration.
• The noise level in the work environment may be loud.
• Per state requirements for this industry, the facility is secured by user-specific access and is surveillance by cameras located throughout the laboratory except in restrooms.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Ability to concentrate and consistently produce accurate work.
• Frequent standing, walking, sitting, and use hands.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.
• Visual requirements to include close vision, color vision and ability to adjust focus.

WORK HOURS:

• Tuesday – Saturday, training and competency determined on a Monday-Friday schedule.
• Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Tuesday-Saturday.
• 8-9 hour shifts
• Overtime available.

Work Location: In person

Job Type: Full-time

Compensation:  $25-28 / hour

Expected hours: 40 – 45 per week

Application Question(s):

• Describe analytes of interest and specific applications you have worked on as part of your professional experience in HPLC analysis.
• What HPLC manufacturer(s) and software systems have you personally ran daily for more than 12 months.
• Describe your experience(s) with method discovery, and instrument troubleshooting.

 Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• Analytical chemistry:  2 years (required)
• Agilent instrumentation: 2 years (preferred)
• HPLC: 2 years (required)

Work Location: In person