Forensic Chemist (Explosive)
americansystemsยท Scientific Research & Analysis
About this role
Overview
Are you a Forensic Chemist looking for an exciting opportunity? We are looking for a Forensic Chemist who specializes in explosives to join our team and provide mission-essential support for our nation's War Fighters.ย
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AMERICAN SYSTEMS is an employee-owned federal government contractor supporting national priority programs through our strategic solutions in the areas of Information Technology, Test & Evaluation, Program Mission Support, Engineering & Analysis, and Training.
Responsibilities
- Perform chemical analysis of recovered materials to detect and identify compounds present to include: explosives, homemade explosive pre-cursors, solvents, acids, bases, drugs, and other hazardous materials.
- Differentiate trace explosive signatures from contamination and background.
- Provide information to assist in profiling and signature analysis.
- Perform appropriate presumptive and confirmatory analyses utilizing the following: colorimetric tests, thin layer chromatography (TLC), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and other instrumentation or techniques as available.
- Evaluate samples to determine appropriate sample preparation techniques: solvent extraction/filtration, liquid-liquid extraction, solid phase extraction, solid phase micro-extraction, headspace extraction.ย
- Understand, and strive to implement, data quality and reporting guidelines established within the professional forensic community, Properly utilize reference standards (when available) to support the highest degree of confidence available in reported results.
- Perform instrument troubleshooting and maintenance.
- Develop and validate analytical techniques to accommodate emerging chemical analysis requirements.
- Interact and collaborate with other group/team members and other forensic staff to ensure a high quality and accurate product.
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#TXP & AXC-GO
Qualifications
- Current DOD Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Ten (10) years of experience working in an accredited laboratory with explosive compounds.
- Degree from an accredited college or university in physical or life sciences with a minimum of 24 semester hours of chemistry coursework.
- Proficient in use of excel/spreadsheets and other data bases.
- Ability to explain technical subject matter to non-technical audience.
- Completion of formalized training program and subsequent performance as certified examiner within drug chemistry, trace analysis, explosives chemistry or related discipline.
- Experience working within a CEXC, WTI, C-IED Team, DTK Lab, JEFF, TEDAC facility, other NGIC, DIA or ATF Lab; interagency or state/local law enforcement environment is preferred but not required.
Pay Transparency Statement
AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $100,000.00/Yr. - USD $120,000/Yr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.EEO Statement
EEO Race/Sex/Disability Status/Veteran StatusFrequently Asked Questions
What is the salary for the Forensic Chemist (Explosive) role at americansystems?
The listed salary for this Forensic Chemist (Explosive) position at americansystems is USD 100Kโ120K/yr. This is an FULL TIME role.
Where is the Forensic Chemist (Explosive) position at americansystems located?
This Forensic Chemist (Explosive) role at americansystems is based in Indian Head, MD, US. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Forensic Chemist (Explosive) role at americansystems full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a FULL TIME position. It is posted as a Forensic Chemist (Explosive) role in the Scientific Research & Analysis department at americansystems.
Which team or department does the Forensic Chemist (Explosive) at americansystems belong to?
This Forensic Chemist (Explosive) position is part of the Scientific Research & Analysis department at americansystems. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Forensic Chemist (Explosive) position at americansystems?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to americansystems's official application portal hosted on icims where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Forensic Chemist (Explosive) job at americansystems posted?
This Forensic Chemist (Explosive) position at americansystems was posted on Jan 28, 2026. Apply as soon as possible โ early applications are often reviewed first.
Forensic Chemist (Explosive)
americansystems ยท ๐ฐ USD 100Kโ120K/yr
You'll be redirected to americansystems's official application page on icims.