Colorbiotics produces millions of pounds of environmentally friendly colorant every month. With the largest color palette in the world, our colorant has been used in everything from landscaping products, such as mulch, to the rubber found on playgrounds and in artificial football fields. Our team also manufactures a full line of advanced commercial coloring equipment. And, beyond colorant, we offer specialized coatings and additives to protect and enhance other products enduring the elements.

At Colorbiotics, we pioneer the science behind landscape colorant, recreation surfaces, asphalt additives, and the equipment that makes them even better.  We are seeking an Associate Scientist to work in our Ames, IA office.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Laboratory and material preparation for experiments.  Supports R&D projects as needed.
• Analyze samples of raw materials and finished goods using standard test methods.
• Investigate and identify causes of material deficiencies.
• Laboratory stocking of materials required to conduct quality control testing, and maintenance of instrument calibrations.
• Prepare tables and reports of data generated through quality control testing.
• Prioritize responsibilities, balancing short- and medium-term objectives while successfully ensuring completion of routine job duties.
• Exhibit positive image of self and corporation.
• Wear required PPE and follow company established environmental, health and safety procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Colorbiotics management.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, or a closely related field required.
• Prior testing experience in the pigment dispersion or ink industry preferred.
• Exercise independent judgement within area of expertise with minimal guidance.
• Technical aptitude to provide guidance to operations staff on batch corrections and process trouble shooting.
• Exhibit good laboratory technique and chemical hygiene practices.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to set priorities and make decisions in a dynamic work environment.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to handle multiple concurrent tasks effectively.
• Action oriented, good problem solver, highly analytical, and ability to accurately produce, record, and manage large amounts of data.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment to achieve organization goals.
• Ability to lift and handle materials up to 50 pounds.

The chance to bring new ideas, interesting areas for development, and taking responsibility early on are some of the key factors that drive Sika's pioneering spirit. Friendly, personable, and often surprisingly uncomplicated, that's how many of our employees describe their working relationships at Sika. We call this the Sika Spirit. Sika – Building Trust. Trust is the most important thing for us. We trust in the capabilities of all our Sika team members - every day.