Senior Analytical Chemist

Company Description Kao Specialties Americas LLC (KSA), a member of the Tokyo-based Kao Corporation, is a specialized chemical manufacturer serving multiple markets and industries across North America. Originating from High Point Chemical Corporation, KSA has evolved into three strategic business units: Imaging Materials, Performance Chemicals, and Oleo Chemicals & Specialties. The company is recognized for its long history in polyester toner binder production and its role in expanding Kao’s broad product portfolio. KSA’s Oleo Chemicals & Specialties business unit helps reinforce Kao’s global supply capabilities and commitment to innovation. Team members at KSA contribute to a legacy of advanced chemical solutions that support diverse industrial applications. Role Description The Senior Analytical Chemist serves as the technical lead for analytical instrumentation, method development, and advanced chemical analysis within KSA Analytical Services. This role is responsible for maintaining and optimizing laboratory instrumentation, developing and validating analytical methods, leading complex technical investigations, and ensuring reliable analytical support for manufacturing, quality, product development, and process improvement activities. The successful candidate will act as a subject matter expert in analytical chemistry, providing technical leadership, training, and mentorship to laboratory personnel while collaborating with Manufacturing, Quality, R&D, and Commercial teams to solve complex technical challenges. This position also plays a key role in advancing digital laboratory technologies, data integrity initiatives, analytical data management, and continuous improvement efforts that enhance laboratory efficiency, compliance, and operational excellence. Required Qualifications & Skills Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline Minimum of 5 years of analytical laboratory experience in a manufacturing, quality, or research environment Demonstrated expertise with analytical instrumentation, including chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques Strong experience in analytical method development, validation, optimization, and troubleshooting Proven ability to diagnose, maintain, and improve laboratory instrumentation performance Strong scientific problem-solving, root cause analysis, and data interpretation skills Experience with statistical analysis, technical report writing, and presentation of scientific findings Knowledge of laboratory quality systems, data integrity principles, and regulatory compliance requirements Proficiency with digital laboratory systems, chromatography data systems (CDS), and data analytics tools Excellent communication, project management, and cross-functional collaboration skills Strong commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence Preferred Qualifications Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry or a closely related scientific discipline Experience supporting digital transformation initiatives within a laboratory environment Pay Range: $85,000 - $125,000