Chemist, Research and Development (R&D)

Summary

CHS has an exciting opportunity in the Product Development group. We are searching for an experienced Research and Development (R&D) Chemist to support agronomic research through hands-on work in both the formulation laboratory and the greenhouse. This role will be primarily lab-focused. The Chemist will be expected to effectively utilize facility assets to advance CHS agronomic research, assisting with both chemical analyses and greenhouse experiments.

This role is required to be on-site at our Randolph, MN location (greater Minneapolis/St. Paul area). 

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with all laboratory health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Demonstrate a foundational understanding of organic, inorganic, physical, and biochemical principles.
• Operate and maintain advanced analytical instrumentation, including HPLC, ICP (e.g., ICP-MS/OES), and GC systems.
• Perform sample preparation and analysis using HPLC/ICP, following standard methods; troubleshoot minor issues (column changes, detector calibration, etc.).
• Assist in method optimization, including basic DOE and chromatographic method development under chemist supervision.
• Assist with formulation preparation and evaluation of stability/compatibility under Chemist guidance.
• Document findings and prepare clear, concise technical reports. Communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally, within cross-functional teams.
• Operate and maintain common laboratory equipment with precision and care.
• Apply standard greenhouse practices to support ongoing research and plant trials.
• Understand and follow proper procedures for hazardous material handling and disposal in accordance with applicable regulations.
• Support lab safety protocols and regulatory compliance, including thorough review of SDSs and seed treater manuals, and safely manage and handle hazardous materials with appropriate PPE and established procedures.
• Sterilize equipment and ensure secure storage of materials and supplies.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory and greenhouse equipment; troubleshoot issues or report malfunctions as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications (required)

• High School Diploma (or equivalent)
• 2+ years of laboratory experience in quality management, formulation, analytical methods, and/or product development to include:
  • Strong documentation skills; ability to maintain precise and compliant lab logs
  • Proven ability to identify issues, propose solutions, and implement recommendations
  • Ability to read, interpret, and apply information from labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and seed treater manuals
  • Solid understanding of lab safety practices and regulatory compliance 

Additional Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemistry (or related scientific field) is strongly preferred
• Strong agriculture background/knowledge
• Understanding of marketing concepts
• Ability to:
  • self-motivate and able to work independently with minimal supervision
  • perform under stressful situations and time constraints
  • present in front of groups in a professional and positive attitude
  • utilize office tools (phone, fax, computer) Microsoft Office products
  • put together meeting presentations and present to attending audience
• Participation in one or more professional agricultural organizations is encouraged

Pre-employment screening is based on the job requirements and industry guidelines and may or may not be required for the position. If required, selected candidates must pass pre-employment screenings to include all or a combination of drug, criminal, motor vehicle check, physical requirements and FMSCA Clearinghouse. 

Physical Requirements

• Ability and willingness to:
  • travel up to 10%, including overnight stays as needed
  • sit and stand for long periods of time
  • lift up to 50 lbs