Chemist I

Since 1980, NAI has been a leader in nutritional health, bringing whole food-based supplements to a global population. NAI is a leading expert and manufacturer of dietary supplements, and we are involved in every facet of the industry, including research, development, manufacturing, marketing, and advocacy. As a company, we continue to grow with manufacturing locations in Vista and Carlsbad, CA. We are looking for seasoned and entry level candidates that are interested in working for a global company with opportunities for growth, development, competitive pay, and benefits.

Summary

• Perform routine analysis of raw materials, in-process bulk, finished products and stability samples using various analytical methodologies (chromatography, spectroscopy, physical and chemical separation techniques). Process, interpret and report testing results in a timely and professional manner. Comply with all applicable regulations and policies.
• Essential Duties & Responsibilities
• Perform routine testing of raw materials, in-process bulk, finished products and stability samples in support of production and R&D.
• Conduct analytical (HPLC, HPTLC, ICPMS, UV, FTIR, Karl Fisher, pH, titrations, USP monographs etc.) and physical (LOD, weight uniformity etc.) testing per established lab standard operating procedures.
• Perform testing with accuracy and precision. Maintain accurate and detailed records.
• Prepare sample, standard and reagent solutions as required by the test methods.
• Handle and store all chemicals according to safety guidelines. Ensure that chemicals are within their respective shelf life and that adequate standards are used for the assays.
• Assist in the maintenance of an up-to-date and accurate chemicals and supplies inventory.
• Operate and maintain general laboratory equipment (pipettes, pH meters, analytical balances, ovens) and instruments (IR, TLC, UV, HPLC).
• Troubleshoot instrument errors as needed. Ensure that adequate documentation is kept in the appropriate equipment logbook. Promptly report incidents to supervisor or designee.
• Communicate testing status in a timely and effective manner to management and the lab coordinators.
• Process and report testing data in a timely manner, submit to a chemist for peer review, then management for final approval.
• Perform peer review of data and reports generated by chemistry technicians.
• Ensure that all necessary documentation is completed for each sample. Carefully enter all pertinent data in analyst notebooks, electronic databases (LIMS), test request forms and lab reports.
• Keep work area safe, clean, and organized, wash glassware and other labware as needed.
• Participate in the waste disposal program of the lab hazardous materials.
• Learn and demonstrate proficiency in new analytical methodologies as assigned by the supervisor or designee.
• Report to work on time and follow all company procedures and guidelines.
• Comply with cGMP, cGLP and other applicable government regulations, as well as company compliance guidelines, standards, and objectives.
• Perform other duties as assigned and directed by QC management.

Qualifications

• BS or BA degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related science degree.
• Minimum 2 years hands-on experience in an analytical lab, preferably in a related industry.
• HPTLC, HPLC and ICPMS experience highly desirable, including familiarity with instrument software Camag, Empower and MassHunter.
• Excellent computer skills with knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work in a team environment.
• Quality-minded and detail-oriented individual able to carry out assignments in a thorough, conscientious fashion.
• Ability to multi-task and adjust to changes in workflow priorities to meet deadlines while adhering to safe laboratory practices.
• Quick and eager learner able to easily adopt new instrumentation and methodology.
• Experience with cGMP and cGLP a plus.

Physical Demands

• Able to work with and around hazardous materials, chemicals, and equipment.
• Regularly required to communicate with others (talk and hear).
• Required to sit and use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision,

Work Environment

Computer workstation and climate-controlled office environment. Analytical laboratory requiring use of PPE (lab coats, gloves, lab glasses, and any additional PPE as necessary). May occasionally enter production areas where personal protective equipment might be required to prevent or lessen exposure to airborne powdered nutritional supplement substances.

Benefits:

• Medical plan options – Two HMO and one PPO
• Dental, vision, life insurance and other voluntary benefit options.
• 3 weeks’ vacation and 11 paid holidays
• 401K including company matching and profit sharing
• $1,000 Employee Referral Bonus
• Quarterly employee lunches, Employee of Month and other recognition programs
• Opportunities for advancement
• Comprehensive training
• Tuition Reimbursement and more!

NAI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, intersectionality, veteran status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

Upon this conditional offer of employment, a satisfactory completion of a background check (including criminal records check) with submission and passing a pre-employment post offer drug test is required prior to beginning employment. Any offer of employment may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the continued employment of a current NAI employee who was conditionally offered the position. Upon successful completion of the background check process, we will determine the date when your employment begins. NAI utilizes E-Verify to electronically verify employment eligibility.

Mon - Fri / 8:00 am to 5:00 pm