Chemistry Laboratory: Research Chemist

Research Chemist
This is an outstanding opportunity for a Research Chemist or Chemical Engineer to join a small, cross‑functional team working with cutting‑edge technology in applied energetics. You will help develop novel energetic systems, scale up energetic material processes, and contribute to the development, testing, and analysis of ammunition, armaments, and other energetic applications. The role requires a strong foundation in chemistry or chemical engineering, hands‑on synthesis experience, and a practical, innovative mindset suited to a fast‑paced, highly regulated environment.

Responsibilities

Develop novel synthesis routes and scale‑up processes for energetic materials from laboratory to pilot scale quantities (approximately 1 lb to 1 kg).

Characterize new energetic materials using a range of analytical methods and instruments, including GC, TGA, FTIR, and UV‑VIS.

Optimize formulations for propellants, pyrotechnics, and explosive compositions to meet performance, safety, and reliability requirements.

Handle and test energetic materials, armaments, and weapon systems in accordance with strict safety protocols and procedures.

Integrate energetic materials into end items such as ammunition and munitions, ensuring proper performance and compatibility.

Follow rigorous safety processes and standard laboratory practices when handling hazardous and energetic materials.

Design experiments and test series that enable safe, efficient, and high‑quality data collection for development and qualification efforts.

Design, select, install, maintain, and operate specialized instrumentation and test equipment needed for energetic materials work.

Support compliance with restricted information security regulations and contribute to secure handling of sensitive technical data.

Perform project engineering tasks, including writing technical reports, preparing and delivering technical presentations, and tracking technical deliverables.

Collaborate closely with a small, multidisciplinary team to solve complex technical problems and drive projects forward on aggressive timelines.

Apply creative thinking and innovation to develop new tests, methods, and solutions that advance energetic materials technology.

Balance hands‑on laboratory and test work with data analysis, documentation, and communication of results to internal and external stakeholders.

Essential Skills

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering.

Hands‑on experience with energetic materials or hazardous materials in a laboratory or pilot plant setting.

Strong foundation in synthetic chemistry, including organic and/or inorganic synthesis and formulation.

Proficiency in standard laboratory practices, including safe handling, measurement, and documentation.

Experience using analytical chemistry instruments such as gas chromatography (GC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier‑transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV‑VIS spectroscopy.

Ability to design and execute experiments and test series that yield reliable, actionable data.

Problem‑solving skills with the ability to work effectively in a team environment on fast‑paced projects.

Capability to work both with direction and autonomously, taking ownership of tasks and deliverables.

Strong verbal and written communication skills for reports, presentations, and technical discussions.

Ability to obtain a security clearance as required by project and customer needs.

Ability to obtain a Colorado State Blaster’s Permit.

Physical ability to sit for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and bend, sit, stand, and move as needed to perform laboratory and test activities.

Ability to see near and far and work effectively with a computer monitor and laboratory instrumentation.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

Experience in a highly regulated industry such as energetics, pharmaceuticals, or similar, particularly with novel process development.

Familiarity with general explosive effects and explosive chemistry.

Experience in continuous synthesis processes.

Experience with armament and munition development and testing.

Experience in energetic material synthesis and formulation development.

Experience with laboratory and pilot plant scale‑up of energetic materials.

Knowledge of basic to intermediate chemistry and/or chemical engineering principles applied to real‑world systems.

Experience with chemical formulation development, particularly for propellants, pyrotechnics, or explosives.

Comfort working with analytical chemistry analyzers and applying data to inform process and formulation decisions.

A practical, hands‑on mindset, comfortable with working in the lab and test range rather than exclusively desk work.

Creative, solution‑oriented approach with a willingness to take well‑managed, safe risks to try new tests and methods to achieve technical goals.

Hearty, resilient attitude with grit and the ability to thrive in a demanding, mission‑focused environment.

Professional traits aligned with core values of integrity, quality, agility, and determination to get the job done quickly and affordably.

Academia experience is acceptable, with a preference for candidates who also bring industry experience in energetics or other highly regulated sectors.

Work Environment
The role is based at a facility in Littleton, Colorado that supports a variety of defense‑related and other clients in the field of applied energetics. You will work in a laboratory and test environment that combines synthetic chemistry, formulation work, analytical testing, and hands‑on experimentation with energetic materials, ammunition, and armament systems. The environment is fast‑paced, highly safety‑conscious, and governed by strict regulatory and information security requirements. You will regularly use advanced analytical instruments such as GC, TGA, FTIR, and UV‑VIS, along with specialized test equipment for energetic materials. Work includes a mix of bench chemistry, pilot‑scale operations, test range activities, data analysis, and technical documentation. The culture emphasizes integrity, quality, agility, grit, and a mission‑driven focus on enabling peace through strength and innovation. The organization offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) with matching, disability and life insurance, paid time off, professional development opportunities, and a flexible schedule, all within an environment committed to equal employment opportunity and reasonable accommodation for qualified applicants.

Job Type & Location
This is a Permanent position based out of Littleton, CO.

Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $85,000.00 - $100,000.00/yr.

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with matching

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Flexible schedule

Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Littleton, CO.

Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 4, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Hiring diverse talent

Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self‑reflection

Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes

Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

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