Logo
Air Force Research Laboratory

Process Chemist

Air Force Research Laboratory, Rosamond, California, United States, 93560


Job Overview

This job announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 1 November 2024. Resumes must be in DD/MMM/YYYY format.

Job Overview -

The candidate will primarily design and develop new flow synthesis and process methods of energetic materials that are relevant for the development and production of solid rocket propellants. The position requires a good knowledge of energetic materials synthesis as well as experience with modern flow synthesis and processing technologies. The candidate will be part of a research group that collaborates with other in-house and out-of-agency groups and must have strong communication skills to present results to researchers in the field and non-technical personnel.

Position duties include, but are not limited to:

The candidate will be a self-starter and will design and develop new flow synthesis and processing methods for energetic materials to support the development and production of rocket propellants.

The candidate will apply statistical methods (Design of Experiment) and in-flow analytical tools to rapidly optimize chemical processes.

The candidate will work as a member of a DoD overarching team, to mature new flow synthesis methods to pilot plant size production processes.

The candidate will ideally have expertise or experience in building new process reactors that can withstand highly corrosive reaction conditions.

The candidate will be expected to present results in the form of reports, patents, conference presentations, and/or program reviews.

Competency: Energetic Materials Processing

1. Designs, develops, and supports the construction of new flow reactors for the synthesis and processing of energetic materials.

2. Applies statistical methods and in-flow analytical technologies (in-flow NMR, Raman/IR, calorimetry, etc.) to optimize synthesis methods.

3. Combines flow synthesis and processing modules to develop start-to-finish production processes for energetic materials.

Competency: Energetic Materials Production

1. Transfers small scale flow reaction conditions to the microfluidic pilot plant level.

2. Designs, develops, and supports the construction of microfluidic pilot plant modules.

3. On-demand produces energetic materials required to support in-house and out-of-agency explosive and propellant development/production programs.

Competency: Written communication

1. Composes and compiles information, concepts, and ideas in a clear, concise, well-organized manner.

2. Authors or contribute to technical reports, proposals, briefing materials, and/or conference presentations on assigned research activities.

3. Records research activities and compiles data according to scientific standards.

Competency: Oral communication

1. Presents technical briefings or conference presentations on activities related to research project(s).

2. Consults with co-workers and other groups or organizations for ideas on issues/concerns to obtain diverse viewpoints and/or recommended solutions.

3. Prepares and presents briefings/presentations on consultations, studies, or investigations.

4. Promotes interchange of information on mission requirements, capabilities, deficiencies, and/or technology applications with peers, customers and/or other agencies.

5. Share knowledge and expertise on newly developed analytical methods with others.

Other Significant Facts:

- Regular travel (~15%) will be required for the position.

- Telework options may be possible.

- Relocation or other incentives may be offered for this position.

Telework

Yes, this position is eligible for telework opportunities; as determined by agency policy

Remote Work (CONUS)

No, this position is not approved for remote work.

Required Qualifications

• United States Citizenship

• Ability to obtain and maintain the required security clearance

• One year of specialized experience equivalent to DR-I, or equivalent in other pay systems

• Ph.D. in chemistry, chemical engineering, or related field.

• This is an Acquisition Professional Development Program (APDP) position requiring level 2-Foundational, Non-Critical certification in Engineering and Technical Management (N). The selectee will have 24-months to meet APDP requirements or a waiver must be obtained.

Desired Qualifications

• Background on energetic material synthesis and processing.

• Expertise or experience with modern production methods like microfluidic technology, electrochemical reactions, Taylor-Vortex reactors, etc.

• Familiar with process control software (e.g., LabView) and in-process analytical tools.

(Requisition 89091)

Series

1320