Entry Level Manufacturing Engineering Jobs in Tennessee

"We connect science to life for a better future."

LG Chem will become a world-class corporation that creates new value for our customers based on "science," beyond "chemistry."

LG Chem Advanced Materials, Inc. (LGCTA) is actively searching for a Quality Control Chemist to join our Quality Control team in Clarksville, TN. The Quality Control Chemist is responsible for supporting manufacturing quality objectives by performing repetitive laboratory testing, operating analytical instrumentation, analyzing test data, and supporting overall quality control activities.

This position requires the ability to work a rotating 12-hour shift schedule, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays, to support continuous manufacturing operations and provide uninterrupted quality control support in a 24/7 production environment.

This position is based full-time in Clarksville, TN and is not a remote role.

• Perform chemical, physical, and electrochemical characterization of raw materials, intermediate products, and finished materials using a variety of analytical techniques and instrumentation, including but not limited to:
  • pH Titrator
  • Moisture Analyzer
  • Air Jet Sieve
  • Handheld X-Ray Fluorescence (H-XRF)
  • Automated Scanning Electron Microscope (Auto-SEM)
  • Particle Size Distribution (PSD) Analyzer
  • Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES)
  • X-Ray Diffraction (XRD)
  • Portable X-Ray Fluorescence (P-XRF)
  • BET Surface Area Analyzer
  • Tap Density Analyzer
  • Coin Cell Assembly and Electrochemical Testing Systems
• Analyze and interpret laboratory data, identify trends or abnormalities, and provide technical recommendations to Quality Control Engineers and laboratory leadership.
• Conduct analytical testing in accordance with approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), laboratory protocols, quality standards, and safety requirements.
• Perform analytical assignments based on individual qualifications, training completion, and demonstrated competency. Instrument responsibilities may vary depending on certification and proficiency levels.
• Review and verify analytical data for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with established specifications; promptly escalation abnormal results or trends to Quality Control Engineers or laboratory management.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, test results, and supporting documentation within laboratory information systems, databases, and other designated reporting tools.
• Conduct routine instrument inspections, performance checks, calibration verification, and basic maintenance activities to ensure reliable operation and data integrity.
• Support troubleshooting efforts related to analytical equipment, test methods, and laboratory processes, serving as the initial point of escalation for equipment or testing concerns.
• Assist in investigations involving out-of-specification (OOS) results, nonconforming materials, and quality-related issues.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of samples, chemicals, and laboratory waste in accordance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Assist with laboratory safety initiatives, environmental compliance activities, and maintenance of related documentation and records.
• Support laboratory operations through ordering, receiving, inventory management, and organization of laboratory chemicals, consumables, standards, and supplies.
• Perform routine laboratory maintenance activities, including monitoring and replacement of laboratory filtration systems (air, water, and gas) and maintaining a clean, organized work environment.
• Inspect packaging materials, including bags and bulk packaging containers, for compliance with quality and material specifications.
• Receive, log, prioritize, and schedule incoming samples to support efficient laboratory workflow and testing turnaround times.
• Prepare, package, and coordinate shipment of customer samples and analytical materials according to established procedures and customer requirements.
• Collaborate with Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering, and other cross-functional teams to support product quality, process improvement, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform all duties in compliance with LG Chem's safety policies, quality management systems, and applicable regulatory requirements.

• Attention to Detail: Consistently perform testing, data review, and documentation with a high degree of accuracy and precision.
• Integrity: Uphold the highest standards of honesty, report data exactly as observed, and communicate issues openly without concealment.
• Accountability: Take ownership of tasks and results, ensuring reliability and trustworthiness.
• Willingness to Learn: Demonstrate strong motivation and enthusiasm to acquire new skills, adapt to new equipment, and grow within the role.
• Quality Focus: Perform all testing with accuracy, consistency, and adherence to SOPs.
• Comprehensive Understanding: Ability to understand the purpose and principles of all analytical tests and support team members when needed.
• Teamwork: Collaborate effectively with colleagues across laboratory and production teams.
• Safety Mindset: Follow all safety procedures and proactively prevent unsafe practices.

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.

• Background in laboratory or manufacturing quality operations is preferred but not required.
• Success can be achieved through demonstrated learning agility and adaptability in a hands-on environment.
• Basic computer skills (Excel, data entry, reporting).
• Ability to work 12-hour shifts, including nights and weekends as required.
• Must be able to wear PPE (safety shoes, glasses, masks, respirator, PAPR, gloves, gowns, hearing protection, etc.).

• Experience operating analytical instruments (ICP-OES, XRF, SEM, PSD, BET, XRD, titrator, tap density analyzer, and coin cell assembly equipment).
• Previous experience in chemical, battery, powder, or materials QC environment.
• Familiarity with ISO/IATF quality standards and document control.
• Experience supporting audits, sample shipment, or consumables management.

The working conditions (including the general work environment, and table with physical/mental demands) in this job description reflect the typical conditions you can expect while performing the essential functions of this job. LGCTA provides reasonable accommodations – appropriate changes and adjustments – to applicants and employees to be considered for a job opening, enable them to perform a job, gain access to the workplace, and enjoy the benefits and privileges of employment.

General Work Environment. This position is based primarily within a manufacturing environment and requires regular exposure to typical manufacturing conditions. Team members may experience elevated noise levels, fumes, dust, vibrations, moving mechanical equipment, heat exposure, and other industrial hazards while performing daily duties. The role may also involve handling or moving product samples and navigating active production areas.. Requires standing, walking, lifting, crouching, and extended periods of instrument operation. Regular exposure to hazardous materials with required PPE usage. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.