Analytical Chemist

RSCH AND DEV ENGR 2 TX (004757)

UCPath Position ID: TBD_2198

Position Description History/Status

Approved Date:

3/14/2025 6:09:04 PM

Date Last Edited:

3/14/2025 6:09:01 PM

Last Action Effective Date:

Organization Details

Business Unit (Location):

LACMP

Organization Code:

1130O

Organization:

HENRY SAMUELI SCHOOL ENGR & APPL SCIENCE

Division Code:

1131D

Division:

ENGINEERING & APPLIED SCIEN DIV

Department:

012100 - INSTITUTE FOR CARBON MANAGEMENT

Position Details

UCPath Position Number:

TBD_2198

Position Description ID

231035

UC Payroll Title:

RSCH AND DEV ENGR 2 TX (004757)

Business Title:

Analytical Chemist

Personnel Program

Professional and Support Staff (PSS)

Salary Grade:

STEPS

Job Code FLSA:

Exempt

Union Code (Collective Bargaining Unit):

99: Non-Represented (PPSM)

Employee Relations Code:

E: All Others - Not Confidential

Employee Class (Appt Type):

4 - Staff: Limited

Full-Time Equivalent (FTE)

1

SUPERVISION

UCPath Reports to Position Number:

40061059

Reports to Payroll Title:

PROF-AY-B/E/E

UCPath Department Head Position Number:

40061059

Department Head Payroll Title:

PROF-AY-B/E/E

GENERAL SUPERVISION - Indicates that the incumbent develops procedures for performance of variety of duties; or performs complex duties within established policy guidelines.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Institute for Carbon Management (ICM) is seeking an analytical chemist to join its latest cutting-edge action team with the potential for carbon removal at a global scale. This position will assist a team of dedicated researchers in the analysis of samples resulting from lab-scale and pilot-scale (field) experiments. The ideal candidate is independent, meticulous, and has a strong knowledge in the operation and maintenance of various analytical instrumentation (solid and solution phase) as well as in the application of rigorous quality control. 

The Institute for Carbon Management (ICM) is a cross-campus technology-translation entity at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). ICM translates pioneering carbon management solutions from the laboratory bench-scale to pre-commercial/commercial-scale devices, prototypes, and software solutions. ICM's activities span two major focus areas:

(1) Technologies for carbon dioxide removal, utilization, and avoidance, and

(2) Technologies for creating new supply chains, and processing approaches for critical materials and elements (e.g., Li, Ni, Co, Mn, Mo) that are foundational to accelerating the clean energy transition, as well as reducing the carbon footprint of extractive processes.

ICM is organized into action teams that are convergent, agile, and world-class. These action teams have enabled ICM-born technologies to be awarded the NRG COSIA Carbon XPRIZE, the 2021 Liveability Challenge, the 2023 Time Magazine Best in Sustainability Technology, and the 2023 Grand Award Winner of the Engineering category by Popular Science magazine, among others. ICM's technologies are now being commercialized via spin-out companies including CarbonBuilt Inc., Concrete-AI Inc., and Equatic Inc. 

Analytical Testing and Instrumentation

1. Conduct chemical analyses using a variety of laboratory instruments, including ICP-OES, Ion Chromatography, UV-Vis Spectrophotometry, Gas Chromatography, FTIR, TGA, XRD, water chemistry monitoring, and solid-phase analysis. 2. Perform routine preventative maintenance on laboratory instrumentation used for solution and solid-phase analysis, including ICP-OES, Ion Chromatographs, microscopes, FTIR, TGA, GC, and analytical balances. 3. Perform routine verification of analytical standards and ensure consistent instrument performance.

60%

Sample Management and Quality Control

1. Manage and carry out detailed analyses of experimental and field samples, including sample preparation, calibration, batch quality control, and data analysis. 2. Prepare comprehensive sample analysis reports, including batch quality control documentation. 3. Employ precise laboratory techniques such as reagent preparation, analytical standard preparation, sample digestion, and sample extraction methods as needed.

25%

Method Development and Process Improvement

Develop and implement methods and protocols to enhance sample throughput, streamline analytical processes, and improve overall laboratory efficiency.

10%

Reporting and Communication

Communicate findings to a broader team thoroughly and concisely.

5%

•

Performs other duties as assigned.

•

Complies with all policies and standards.

•

Complies with the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Principles of Community.

•

This position description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of the organization.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree

Chemistry or equivalent combination of education and experience

Required

Master's Degree

Chemistry or similar field.

Preferred

2 years or more

Experience in analytical chemistry

Required

Strong hands-on analytical lab experience.

Required

Strong knowledge in analytical instrumentation, sample preparation techniques.

Required

Ability to troubleshoot and fix analytical instrumentation.

Required

Selectee must be willing to work occasional weekends and/or odd hours.

Required

Passionate about carbon management solutions.

Preferred

A self-starter who collaborates effectively, communicates clearly, and drives progress.

Preferred

Ability to work successfully in a fast-paced and changing environment.

Preferred

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Background Check: Continued employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background investigation.

Live Scan Background Check: A Live Scan background check must be completed prior to the start of employment.

30%

This position requires up to 30% travel once the project scales up, including visits to field sites, vendor locations, and other relevant destinations.

LOCATION AND PHYSICAL, ENVIRONMENTAL, MENTAL (PEM) REQUIREMENTS

Environment and Work Location Information

Environment Type:

Non-Clinical Setting

Location Setting:

Campus

Location:

420 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095

Standing/Walking

X

Sitting

X

Bending/Stooping

X

Squatting/Kneeling

X

Climbing

X

Lifting/Carrying/Push/Pull 0-25 lbs

X

Lifting/Carrying/Push/Pull 26-50 lbs

X

Lifting/Carrying/Push/Pull over 50 lbs

X

Physical requirements other

X

Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes

X

X

Loud noise levels

X

Marked changes in humidity or temperature

X

Microwave/Radiation

X

Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment

X

Exposures other

X

Sustained attention and concentration

X

X

Complex problem solving/reasoning

X

X

Ability to organize & prioritize

X

X

Communication skills

X

X

Numerical skills

X

X

Mental demands other

X

X

Classification 3:  Position in which exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues is not part of the position description. The normal routine task involves no exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues and the employee can decline to perform tasks which involve a perceived risk without retribution.