This is a Scientist I position with a company in Stennis Space Center, MS.

Summary: The Scientist l - Gas Lab, applies professional scientific knowledge and testing in a laboratory environment. Provides gas and material analysis in accordance with Standard Lab Procedures and other work instructions. Scientist is responsible for completing tasks, solving most of the associated technical problems independently with guidance from lead scientist. May be required to coordinate the assignment with others working on related phases of a project. Because of the critical nature of the support provided, extended working hours (including weekends and holidays) are often mandatory. Self-motivated with excellent organizational and time management skills that includes the ability to multi task and effectively manage assignments in a dynamic / diverse lab environment. Must use judgment to evaluate and adapt laboratory requirements/guidelines to satisfy customer specifications and changing test schedules. Maintains contact with other laboratory professional/scientific personnel to promote lab initiatives and to complete assignments.

Responsibilities: Analyze trace levels of gaseous contaminants in propellant and pressurant systems (includes the analysis of gaseous and cryogenic commodities: hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, argon, helium, missile grade air and breathing air) at different pressures, including ambient and partial vacuum conditions. Evaluates, and implements process plans and methods for techniques suitable for day-to-day use on a routine basis. Utilizes various lab equipment to conduct gas analysis for rocket propulsion testing that includes ( paramagnetic and zirconium O2 analyzers for O2 purity determination, electrochemical fuel cells for measuring trace oxygen levels, non-dispersive hydrocarbon analyzers for CO and CO2 determination, flame ionization analyzers for measuring volatile hydrocarbons, gas chromatographs equipped with TCD and Helium Ionization detectors for separating and measuring low concentration of gas components in permanent gases including para and ortho hydrogen) These techniques may involve adaptation or modified techniques to new situations, or new approaches. Able to perform volume, mass and flow calculations and conversions for gasses and liquids. Must be able to perform surface area to volume ratio calculations to report equivalent test results to the surface area sampled based on the solvent volume submitted and analyzed. Ability to prepare secondary gas standards based on pressure fractions and performing mole fraction corrections as required based on Van der Wall forces and other gas law corrections as required. Performs precision cleanliness testing – conducts particulate analysis with manual and automated particle analyzers. Analyzes residues using FTIR spectrometer and identifies organic based particles and softgoods (elastomers) using a FTIR microscope. Performs metal analysis and identifies elements present in steel, aluminum and in other alloys using optical emission spectrometer and energy dispersive x-ray spectrometer. Works on assignments independently or with others under general guidance from higher-level scientists or management. Receives technical guidance on unusual or complex problems. Extract and analyze data to generate comprehensive technical reports – modifying and writing test methods and procedures. Provides innovative approaches to technical problems. Contributes to the overall increase in lab efficiency through adaptive thought and information exchanges. Assist other departments when required. All other duties as assigned. Reviews the results of tests in relation to the reliability, completeness, and accuracy of the test and methods employed. Submits dispositions relative to the results of this analysis. Performs light repairs, maintenance, and preventive maintenance on lab instruments, clean benches, and vacuum pumps as necessary to maintain the lab in a high level of operational readiness. Trend / Data Analysis of Lab Processes and Gas Commodities.

Requirements: Bachelor of Science. Experience using: IR spectrometers and X-Ray spectrometers. Gas Chromatographs equipped with Gas Sampling Valves and with TCD and HID detectors. Material / Mechanical Testing equipment (e.g., hardness,). Optical microscopy. Skilled in operating and calibrating analytical laboratory instrumentation and in preparing primary and secondary chemical standards to determine trace impurities in solvents, hydraulic fluids, etc. Knowledge and interest of chemistry and in analytical lab processes. Ability to work independently as well as in a team setting. Prepare detailed lab reports with data that supports conclusions. Capable of handling multiple projects and meeting deadlines (e.g. unplanned overtime) Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication. Efficient computer skills, including knowledge of the Microsoft software suite – image processing (combining and editing multiple image signals). Professional knowledge of chemical principles, theories, practices, and established methodology sufficient to perform chemical analyses on a wide variety of samples. Must be able to pass and maintain the NASA background check. Must be a U.S. citizen.

An Equal Opportunity Employer