Analytical Chemist

Job title: Analytical Instrumentation Service Engineer

Assignment: 6 months to start

Location: Lake County, IL / M-F, 1st shift, 7-3:30, overtime when needed.

Job Description:

Purpose:

The Analyical Instrument Service Engineer supports a diverse range of laboratory environments by providing expertise in the installation, maintenance, and repair of advanced scientific instruments (including high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography (GC), and mass-spectrometry systems). This role requires continuous learning to keep pace with evolving laboratory equipment and technologies. Under the guidance of managers, specialists, and engineers, the technician rapidly develops necessary skills to deliver exceptional service and support.

Beyond technical mastery, this position is responsible for comprehensive service and customer relationship management—diagnosing instrument issues, performing preventive maintenance, and qualifying chromatography systems. Success relies on strong communication, creativity, and a customer-focused problem-solving approach to keep laboratory operations efficient and help customers achieve scientific goals.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain up-to-date technical skills and expertise in the installation, maintenance, calibration, and repair of analytical lab instrumentation such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography (GC), and mass-spectrometry systems.
• Diagnose and resolve instrumentation performance issues via troubleshooting, repairs, and preventive maintenance.
• Coordinate problem resolution with cross functional groups and external suppliers to expedite services and repairs.
• Advise customers on preventive maintenance and system configurations to improve performance and minimize downtime.
• Review technical documentation, analyze reports, and recommend corrective actions as needed.
• Use computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) to track service requests and document activities.
• Train peer technicians on equipment use, maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting.
• Maintain compliance with company policies, including internal department, quality system, and health and safety policies.
• Meet customer expectations, maintain relationships, and provide follow-up plans.
• Other responsibilities and duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a science-related field (e.g., Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Engineering, Biology) highly preferred; equivalent education, training, or experience will be considered.
• Associates degree or high school diploma/GED with 5+ years of directly relevant experience may be acceptable.
• 3+ years of hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation, such as Spectrophotometers, Chromatography Systems (LC, GC, HPLC/UPLC, SFC), and Mass Spectrometry Systems.
• Eagerness to learn and keep pace with new technologies and laboratory solutions.
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences and address specific customer needs.
• Personal integrity and commitment to quality
• Effective time management and ability to prioritize service requests.
• Advanced troubleshooting and analytical problem-solving abilities
• Ability to produce clear and concise documentation
• 3-5 YOE

Additional:

• Will there be Domestic and/or International Travel? If yes, list proposed countries and % of time travelling: Potential for travel between sites (North Chicago). Maybe local travel for training.

What are the top 3-5 skills requirements should this person have?

• Skill/Requirement 1 Has experience calibrating lab equipment such as an HPLCs, GCs, and Mass Spectrometers using NIST traceable standards.
• Skill/Requirement 2 Has experience repairing/maintaining lab equipment such as an HPLCs, GCs, and Mass Spectrometers
• Skill/Requirement 3 Has experience using chromatography software such as Empower.

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At SPECTRAFORCE, we are committed to maintaining a workplace that ensures fair compensation and wage transparency in adherence with all applicable state and local laws.