Senior Laboratory Development Chemist
- Develop and troubleshoot laboratory analytical methods and instrumentation, using Bayer process chemistry and data analysis to improve refinery performance.
- Lead technical investigations and improvement projects, coordinate cross-site standardisation, and support laboratory safety and operational management.
- Supervise and develop 12 analysts, delivering training and building capability in analytical methods, instrument operation and Bayer process chemistry.
Shape Your World
At Alcoa, you will become an essential part of our purpose: to turn raw potential into real progress. The way we see it, every Alcoan is a work-shaper, team-shaper, idea-shaper & world-shaper.
As a leader within Alcoa, you can help fulfill our purpose and realise our vision to build a legacy of excellence for future generations. Be part of the team that is helping shape a better workplace with the flexibility and equal opportunities that help everyone thrive. You have the power to shape things and individuals to make them better.
About the Role
Bring your chemistry expertise to Alcoa’s Wagerup Refinery as a Senior Laboratory Development Chemist, helping turn laboratory insights into practical improvements in alumina refining. Reporting to the Chemical Services Manager, you will provide specialist support in analytical methods, instrumentation and Bayer process chemistry to strengthen laboratory reliability and refinery performance.
Combining hands-on technical investigation with laboratory leadership, you will work closely with analysts, process engineers and technical teams to solve complex problems, develop capability and support safe, efficient operations.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Develop, implement and troubleshoot analytical methods and laboratory instrumentation to improve reliability and the effective use of equipment and resources.
- Review laboratory and refinery process data, providing Bayer process chemistry expertise to identify improvement opportunities and resolve technical issues.
- Lead laboratory and refinery investigative projects, coordinating resources, trials, timelines, costs and reporting.
- Drive cross-site standardisation of analytical methods, controls and instrumentation.
- Be responsible for the supervision and development of 12 full-time equivalent (FTE) analysts working 12-hour shifts.
- Develop and deliver training in Bayer process chemistry, instrument operation and analytical methods, supporting the technical capability of laboratory staff.
- Take an active leadership role in laboratory safety and contribute to cost management, equipment maintenance, business planning and certification of results.
What’s on offer
- Attractive remuneration and variable bonus plan.
- 18 weeks Parental leave for primary caregivers.
- Paid employee volunteering hours within our community.
- My Alcoa Benefits program offering travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing discounts.
- Salary packaging for a novated car lease, employee share plan and superannuation options.
What you can bring to the role
- A bachelor’s degree in chemistry.
- Laboratory experience working with scientific equipment, and experience in metallurgical processes.
- Demonstrated expertise in alumina refining and Bayer process chemistry, with the ability to interpret analytical and process data and provide practical technical advice.
- Experience in analytical method development, instrumentation troubleshooting and the delivery of technical improvement projects.
- A commitment to laboratory safety and experience supporting training, people development and effective laboratory management.
- Clear communication, sound judgement and attention to detail, with a collaborative approach to solving problems and improving performance.
Additional information
- Interviews may progress prior to the closing date, although all applications will be considered.
- You will only be contacted if you are shortlisted for an interview, this process can take up to four weeks from the closing date.
Be part of shaping our organisation and join us in building a legacy of excellence for future generations.
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About the Location
Alcoa's Wagerup Refinery is one of the world's most environmentally and technologically advanced alumina refineries, and produces approximately 2.9 million metric tons of alumina each year. Located approximately 150 kilometres south of Perth, it is located on the border of WA’s picturesque Peel and South West regions. Our workplace is an inclusive and respectful environment, where we embrace change, new ideas and equal opportunity to succeed.
We are values led, vision driven and united by our purpose of transforming raw potential into real progress. Our commitments to Inclusion, Diversity & Equity include providing trusting workplaces that are safe, respectful and inclusive of all individuals, free from discrimination, bullying and harassment and that our workplaces reflect the diversity of the communities in which we operate.
This is a place where you are empowered to do your best work, be your authentic self, and feel a true sense of belonging. Come join us and shape your career!
Your work. Your world. Shape them for the better.
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