Analytical Chemist
Date: Sep 12, 2025
Location: Hemlock, MI, US, 48626
Company: hemlocksem
At Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC), we transform people’s lives by energizing and connecting our world through silicon technology. Since 1961, HSC has been a leading global provider of hyper-pure polysilicon, and is the only polysilicon manufacturer headquartered in the United States. HSC plays an essential role in the semiconductor and solar industries, with the vision of becoming the preferred supplier of silicon-enabled technologies to the low-carbon, digital world.
Our polysilicon is used to make computer chips – the “brains” behind the electronic devices we rely on to make our lives easier, safer and more enjoyable. HSC is just one of six major manufacturers in the world that makes polysilicon used to create semiconductor wafers. In fact, nearly all electronic devices in the world contain HSC polysilicon.
We’re also moving the world toward a greener future by supplying the rapidly growing solar power industry. HSC is committed to doing good for our local Michigan and global communities, relentlessly improving our operations to remove supply chain carbon emissions. The low embodied greenhouse gas emissions in our polysilicon materials facilitates the production of ultra low-carbon solar panels. These panels allow solar project developers and owners to lower the embodied carbon of their projects by up to 50 percent.
To achieve our goals, we draw on the talents of more than 1,350 employees and contractors. Our employees thrive in a culture that values teamwork, excellence, responsibility and customer focus. We recognize and value the diverse backgrounds and experiences of all of our people working together as One Team. At HSC, you belong to a team that is transforming our world.
Summary
We are seeking a motivated Analytical Chemist with at least three years of hands-on experience in materials characterization techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), or general spectroscopic methods of analysis. The successful candidate will be part of the Metrology Team and support product quality and process development by applying advanced analytical techniques to investigate materials, contaminants, and process-related phenomena. This role involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams including Technology, Quality, and Manufacturing.
Essential Functions
1. Technical Expertise
- Perform routine and non-routine chemical and materials analyses using techniques such as:
• ICP-MS / ICP-OES for trace metals detection.
• SEM for surface morphology and elemental analysis.
• Photoluminescence for semiconductor and optical material characterization.
- Support method development and validation for new analytical protocols.
- Interpret complex data sets and provide actionable insights to improve product quality and yield.
2. Instrument Operation & Maintenance
- Operate and maintain analytical instruments to ensure optimal performance.
- Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate with vendors for service and calibration.
- Ensure compliance with internal standards and external regulatory requirements.
Essential Functions con't
3. Data Analysis & Reporting
- Apply statistical tools to analyze measurement data and assess process stability.
- Document findings in technical reports and communicate results effectively to stakeholders.
- Maintain accurate records of experiments, procedures, and results.
4. Collaboration & Support
- Work closely with Metrology, Quality, and Process Engineering teams to support material investigations.
- Participate in cross-functional projects aimed at process improvement and innovation.
5. Instrument Stewardship
- Develop and validate robust, state-of-the-art measurement methods.
- Evaluate and optimize measurement systems for accuracy and reliability.
- Diagnose and resolve issues related to measurement tools and protocols.
6. Knowledge Documentation
- Document technical expertise, challenges encountered, and innovative solutions.
- Serve as a long-term, reliable source of institutional knowledge.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong foundation in analytical chemistry and materials science.
- Hands-on experience with one or more of the following: SEM, ICP-MS, Photoluminescence, UV-Vis, FTIR.
- Familiarity with cleanroom protocols and contamination control.
- Proficiency in data analysis and statistical process control (SPC).
- Effective communication and documentation skills.
- Ability to work independently and in team settings.
- Proactive and action-oriented mindset. Ability to manage complexity.
Education Requirements
- B.S. or M.S. in Analytical Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field.
- Minimum 3 years of relevant laboratory experience.
Preferred Experience
- Experience in semiconductor or high-purity materials industry.
- Hands-on experience with microscopy and trace metals analysis.
- Familiarity with cleanroom protocols and contamination control procedures.
- Knowledge of spectroscopy techniques such as photoluminescence or FTIR.
- Exposure to separation science (e.g., GC, GC-MS) is a plus.
Required Work Experience
- General Analytical Chemistry Laboratory.
- Metals Testing: Proficiency in ICP-MS and ICP-OES techniques.
- Applied Silicon Spectroscopy is a plus.
The range for this position is $92,000 - $140,000 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to market demands, experience, training, and education. The benefits available for this position are dependent on hours worked and may include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) plan, variable bonus, life insurance coverage, disability benefits, and PTO.
HSC is an equal employment opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, status as a qualified individual with a disability, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, ancestry, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and you need an accommodation or other assistance during the application process, please call our Human Resources department at:
989.301.5333
or email your request to
G1HSC-HR@hscpoly.com
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
Req No. 1062
Nearest Major Market: Saginaw