Scientist, Extractions

Job Description Summary:

The Scientist, Extractions specializes in sample preparation, extraction, and digestion procedures that support chromatographic and mass spectrometric analyses across multiple testing programs. As part of an End-to-End (E2E) Laboratory Modernization Program, this role provides critical support for the characterization of tobacco, nicotine, inhalable, and consumer products.

The Scientist is responsible for preparing samples used in the analysis of nicotine, tobacco-specific nitrosamines, volatile organic compounds, aromatic amines, carbonyl compounds, flavor additives, organic acids, elemental constituents, and other target analytes. The role works collaboratively with analytical testing groups to ensure sample preparation activities are performed efficiently, consistently, and in accordance with laboratory quality requirements. The level of responsibility, autonomy, and technical complexity will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform sample extraction, digestion, and preparation activities that support chromatographic and mass spectrometric analyses across multiple testing programs.
• Prepare samples used for the determination of nicotine, TSNAs, volatile organic compounds, aromatic amines, carbonyl compounds, flavor additives, organic acids, metals, and other target analytes.
• Execute extraction procedures in accordance with approved methods and laboratory quality requirements.
• Prepare reagents, solvents, and consumables required to support analytical workflows.
• Maintain sample traceability and chain-of-custody throughout the analytical process.
• Collaborate with analytical scientists to ensure samples are prepared consistently and efficiently.
• Support method validation, technology transfer, and process improvement initiatives.
• Investigate extraction-related issues and participate in root cause analyses and corrective actions.
• Maintain laboratory records and documentation in accordance with ISO 17025 requirements.
• Maintain training and compliance in health, safety, environmental, and operational requirements.

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities of this job at any time.

Critical Skills:

• Strong understanding of extraction and sample preparation methodologies.
• Knowledge of chromatography and mass spectrometry principles.
• Ability to perform complex sample preparation procedures accurately and consistently.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Familiarity with chain-of-custody and sample traceability requirements.
• Ability to troubleshoot extraction procedures and identify root causes of issues.
• Understanding of ISO 17025 quality systems and data integrity principles.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry or related scientific discipline.
• OR Associate degree or high school diploma with 2+ years of relevant laboratory experience.
• Relevant extraction or analytical laboratory experience commensurate with level (entry-level candidates through experienced scientists will be considered).
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a regulated laboratory environment.
• Adaptable, self-motivated, and capable of managing multiple concurrent tasks and priorities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience performing sample extraction and digestion procedures.
• Familiarity with GC, GC-MS, LC-MS/MS, UPLC, and ICP-MS analytical workflows.
• Experience supporting analyses of nicotine, TSNAs, VOCs, carbonyl compounds, aromatic amines, flavor additives, and metals.
• Experience within ISO 17025, GLP, or GMP environments.
• Experience supporting method validation and technology transfer activities.
• Knowledge of tobacco, nicotine, inhalable, or consumer product testing.

Working Environment:

• Must be able to work in a laboratory, controlled environments requiring personal protective equipment (e.g., lab coat, safety glasses, etc.) in laboratory.
• Job pace may be fast and job completion demands may be high.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position more than 25% of the time.
• The person needs to occasionally move between labs, corridors, adjoining rooms, and buildings onsite. Frequently operate on instruments, objects, tools or controls, which will require regularly bending, squatting, stretching and reaching in order to perform in a service function.
• Occasionally move or lift up to 25 pounds (potential for occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds).
• Specific vision abilities required by this position include without limitation, the ability to observe details at close range distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus in order to perform the essential service functions of this position.
• Occasionally operates a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer.
• Employee may be required to handle hazardous waste according to local, state, and federal regulations. Duties may include identifying, handling, generating, accumulating, storing and labeling hazardous waste.
• Potential risk to lab-based hazards including but not limited to extreme temperature, biological materials, and hazardous chemicals.
• May be required to complete Medical Clearance, Respiratory Protection Training, and Fit Testing to wear a respirator as protection against hazards present in the laboratory environment.