With the end of the Cold War and a job in the defense industry, Ph.D. chemist Thomas D. Santa Cruz wasn't surprised when his employer, EG&G Rocky Flats in Golden, Colo., announced layoffs." What amazed me was the lack of available jobs throughout the industry."
After 18 years progressing to the top of the technical ladder at Rocky Flats, Santa Cruz, an analytical chemist, accepted a voluntary severance package in July 1995. "They were as fair as the funding would allow," he says. He received severance pay and use of the company's employee assistance center, with computers and telephone lines.
Santa Cruz had been prepared: He had socked away money, paid off his car. He knew that other chemists in the area had been in the job market for two years before landing new positions. He says he's willing to move anywhere in the country and would consider a lower salary, but is hoping for "something within the ballpark of what I was making before."
And something in the chemical profession. "One guy tried to convince me to sell insurance," he says.
While sending out resumes, speaking with recruiters, sharing information with other job-seeking chemists, and looking for opportunities at job fairs, Santa Cruz is also brushing up his chemical training. He's studied occupational safety and hazardous materials, reviewed classical and wet chemistry, and dipped into pharmacology. Santa Cruz also has stepped up his networking: He's become more active in local community and professional organizations, serving on committees and running for office.
Santa Cruz now is preparing to embark on a consulting career. He's been developing a database of possible employers, who are also potential clients. And he's joined the Chemical Consultants of Colorado, which has developed a World Wide Web page (http://www. sni.net/light/ccc) to highlight members' expertise and encourage cooperative work among consultants.
"I stay busy, but I'd like a real income," says Santa Cruz. "It's a matter of time, and hopefully the market will turn around."
Back at Rocky Flats, his former colleagues have been working nearly 80 hours a week, he says. Three months ago, more layoffs were announced.
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