Quality Control Lab Chemist

About Alta

Alta Resource Technologies (Alta) is a next generation mining company that uses synthetic biology to separate critical minerals from conventional and unconventional resources, including e-waste. Founded in 2023, the company is expanding its team in Boulder, CO. The exponential growth of new tech industries, as well as the information technology sector, are driving historic growth in mineral demand and stressing existing supply streams. Meeting new demand, diversifying the supply chain, and producing minerals in a more sustainable manner requires the rapid development, deployment and scaling of new technologies. This mineral challenge represents a historic opportunity for technology development and value creation. Alta is proud to be at the vanguard of this mega trend. 

Role Summary

The QC Laboratory Chemist is responsible for analytical testing of raw materials, intermediates, adsorbents, proteins, and finished products to ensure quality, consistency, and regulatory compliance. This role performs routine analytical testing, maintains laboratory instrumentation, completes method qualification, and generates high-quality documentation in a fast-paced & startup environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine QC testing using established analytical methods.
• Performs method verification, transfer, and validation.
• Prepare standards, reagents, calibration solutions, and quality control samples.
• Operate and maintain analytical instrumentation such as: HPLC/UPLC, ICP-OES/ICP-MS, UV-Vis, particle analyzers
• Execute release testing of protein products, functionalized adsorbents, process intermediates, and raw materials.
• Review analytical data for accuracy and completeness.
• Investigate out-of-specification (OOS) and out-of-trend (OOT) results.
• Maintain laboratory notebooks and electronic records following best practices
• Maintain laboratory inventory and instrument qualification records.
• Support internal audits and quality management activities.
• Collaborate with Process Development, Chemistry, Biology, and Manufacturing teams.

Required Qualifications

• BS in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 2–5 years of industrial laboratory experience.
• Experience operating analytical instrumentation.
• Strong wet chemistry skills.
• Experience with laboratory documentation and data integrity.
• Excellent organizational and troubleshooting skills.
• Please note: Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with protein characterization.
• Experience with ICP-OES or ICP-MS.
• Familiarity with LIMS and electronic laboratory notebooks.
• Statistical analysis (JMP, Minitab, or similar).

Compensation & Benefits 

The starting pay range for this position is $60,000 - $90,000, commensurate with educational background and work experience. 

Benefits include:

• 401(K)
• Medical, Dental, Vision plans (or equivalent) 
• Flexible Time Off
• Paid Parental Leave
• Paid Sick Leave
• Company Holidays

EOE

Alta Resource Technologies is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We believe that varied perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds strengthen our team and drive better outcomes for our clients and partners.

We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and the needs of the business. Alta participates in e-Verify for all positions. 

If you require accommodations at any point in the hiring process, please let your recruiter know.

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