Research Chemist
HRLMalibu, California
Full Time
Posted May 1, 2026
$106k - $132k
Not Specified
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Job Description
A Research Chemist at HRL Laboratories conducts chemical synthesis and material development, focusing on organic, polymer, inorganic, and sol-gel chemistry to create advanced materials for automotive, aerospace, and defense applications, from benchtop experiments to pilot-scale production.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute complex chemical reactions and polymerizations, including organic, polymer, sol-gel, and organometallic synthesis.
- Develop, optimize, and scale material processing techniques to produce high-performance functional polymers, coatings, and composites.
- Operate and maintain analytical tools such as DSC, TGA, FTIR, UV-Vis, rheometer, and SEM to interpret data and guide experiments.
- Document experimental procedures, analyze results, and present technical findings to project managers and stakeholders.
- Manage laboratory operations, including equipment calibration, chemical inventory, and maintaining lab cleanliness and organization.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field with a minimum of 3 years of experience, or a master's degree in the same fields.
- A strong fundamental understanding of organic and polymer chemistry, supplemented by knowledge of inorganic chemistry and physics.
- Demonstrated hands-on experience in wet chemistry and/or polymer synthesis in a research environment.
- Experience with formulation, compounding, or scale-up of commercial-grade materials such as coatings, adhesives, elastomers, and composites.
- Demonstrated ability to perform thermal, optical, and chemical analysis.
- Proficiency with spreadsheet and data processing analysis tools for strong data analysis and organizational skills.
- Excellent technical communication skills, including clear written documentation and presentation of experimental results.
- Adherence to standard operating procedures and safety protocols for handling hazardous chemicals and operating synthesis equipment.
- Ability to work on-site at the Malibu facility for 40 hours per week.
- U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Benefits & Perks
Salary range of $105,700 - $132,150
Work on-site at the Malibu facility for 40 hours per week
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Life insurance
401K match
Gym facilities
Paid time off (PTO)
Sick time
Opportunities for upward mobility
Challenging and exciting work environment
Ready to Apply?
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