Senior Propellant Chemist

POSITION SUMMARY:

The role involves providing expertise in the formulation and development of automotive airbag propellant systems. Responsibilities encompass propellant formulation, characterization, process innovation, and collaboration with suppliers. This position is critical in ensuring the successful implementation of chemical solutions in automotive safety applications.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Innovate and enhance propellant and energetic materials for automotive airbag systems.

2. Formulate propellants (including fuel, oxidizer, binder, etc.) tailored to specific application requirements such as gas output and ignition characteristics, while considering manufacturing capabilities.

3. Conduct trade studies and preliminary evaluations of gas-generating materials to support inflator design.

4. Collaborate with suppliers to establish analytical procedures, specifications, and testing methodologies.

5. Develop comprehensive procedures, specifications, and test plans (including analytical, hazards, and compatibility assessments) to validate materials and analyze discrepancies.

6. Execute material testing and provide training to technicians and suppliers, ensuring thorough data analysis and documentation of results.

7. Address challenges related to production and development of energetic materials and propellants, including pressed and extruded types.

8. Oversee development initiatives conducted by gas generant suppliers.

9. Formulate development plans, statements of work (SOW), and experimental designs (DOE).

10. Review relevant literature, patents, and industry practices to provide informed recommendations on development activities.

11. Engage in decision-making regarding development priorities and assess the feasibility of potential projects, including recommendations on handling and storage of energetic materials.

12. Conduct competitive benchmarking of products in the market.

13. Maintain corporate chemical information, including Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and related documentation.

14. Perform additional job-related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

A degree in chemistry or a related discipline, accompanied by a minimum of thirteen (13) years of experience in propellant and energetics chemistry for candidates with a bachelor's degree, ten (10) years for those with a master's degree, or seven (7) years for PhD holders. Proficiency in data analysis using statistical methods and a solid understanding of experimental analytical techniques are essential. Ideal candidates will have experience collaborating with manufacturing teams from concept through to production.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This position will be based in a mixed office and laboratory environment. Employees may encounter controlled air conditions and mechanical, electrical, or chemical processes that necessitate the use of protective equipment. Occasional weekend, holiday work, on-call duties, and overnight travel may be required.

These responsibilities are fundamental to the role and may evolve as assigned by management. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.