The Scientist IV- GMSL Lead oversees and performs laboratory tests, technical studies, and failure analyses on materials and gas/cryogenic systems. This role assumes responsibility for reviewing, executing, and completing customer-driven test requirements, evaluating laboratory guidelines, and adapting procedures to meet analytical needs.

This position aligns with Cayuse’s core values of Innovation, Excellence, Collaboration, Adaptability, and Integrity by fostering technical solutions that meet customer needs, promoting teamwork, and prioritizing quality in deliverables.

• Performs professional assignments within a specific scientific discipline. Apply scientific knowledge and methodology to the accomplishments of experiments or studies designed to provide solution to testing or development problems. Conducts investigations into new or developing fields of scientific activity to determine their possible application to existing programs or potential areas of company/customer scientific interest.
• Develops, evaluates, and implements process plans and methods for techniques suitable for day -to-day use on a routine basis. These techniques may involve adaptation of classical techniques to new situations, or entirely new and novel approaches.
• Plans and conduct difficult and complex experiments either independently or in conjunction with other personnel.
• Directs, guides, or trains personnel assigned to a program and advises supervisors as to their progress and performance.
• Reviews the results of tests in relation to the reliability, completeness, and accuracy of the analytical test and methods employed. Submits dispositions relative to the results of this analysis.
• Serves as NASA’s subject matter expert for contamination control, precision cleanliness and failure analysis of components /hardware associated with propulsion testing.
• Analyzes routine and non-routine features of scientific tasks and formulates methodologies to resolve technical problems, to increase the efficiency of scientific support, and to enhance the work efforts in the laboratory. Develop standard operating procedures and trains personnel as required
• Prepares technical reports and white papers for special or non-routine projects and for publication in professional journals.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor of Science
• Fifteen (15) or more years’ directly related experience working in an analytical laboratory.
• Skilled in operating, calibrating, minor repair and maintenance of analytical instrumentation.
• Competent in developing, modifying and writing methods and procedures.
• In depth experience using
  • Scanning Electron Microscopes
  • X-ray and IR spectrometers
  • Gas Chromatographs
  • Material / Mechanical Testing equipment (e.g. hardness, tensile strength, etc.).
  • Knowledge and experience to determine root cause failure of hardware - strong problem-solving skills and able to work independently as well as in a team setting - capable of handling multiple projects and meeting deadlines (e.g. unplanned overtime).
  • The ability to analyze and monitor trace levels of gaseous contaminants in propellant and pressuring systems

• Successful history of performing maintenance and inspections on lab equipment.
• Must be able to pass a background check. May require additional background checks as required by projects and/or clients at any time during employment.

Minimum Skills:

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate in a clear, professional, and articulate manner.
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills - to effectively extract and analyze data to generate comprehensive technical and failure analysis reports.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high-level attention to detail.
• Proven ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast past environment with changing priorities; adaptable to change and a quick learner.
• Must be self-motivated and able to work well independently as well as on a multi-functional team.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately
• Proficient in MS Office, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Efficient computer skills, including knowledge of the Microsoft software suite – image processing (combining and editing multiple image signals).

Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.  Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Cayuse is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, skills, and abilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment in accordance with any applicable federal, state, or local law.