Chemistry Technician

Overview

Chemistry Technician (Pilot Plant & R&D Lab) — La Porte, TX | Full-Time

Are you passionate about chemistry, hands-on experimentation, and turning molecules into real-world products? We are looking for a Chemistry Technician to join a growing team developing next-generation renewable specialty chemicals. This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their career or an experienced lab professional who enjoys working with reactions, solving problems, and building things in the lab and pilot plant
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You’ll play a key role supporting chemists and engineers in developing and scaling innovative chemical technologies, working across both lab and pilot plant environments.

• Operate lab-scale and pilot reactors (stirred vessels, Parr reactors, fixed bed systems)
• Charge reactors with catalysts, solvents, and substrates under inert atmosphere (glovebox/Schlenk techniques)
• Run experiments involving temperature, pressure, and gas handling
• Perform sampling, monitoring, and controlled shutdowns
• Execute post-run workups (filtration, purification, distillation)

• Operate lab-scale and pilot reactors (stirred vessels, Parr reactors, fixed bed systems)
• Charge reactors with catalysts, solvents, and substrates under inert atmosphere (glovebox/Schlenk techniques)
• Run experiments involving temperature, pressure, and gas handling
• Perform sampling, monitoring, and controlled shutdowns
• Execute post-run workups (filtration, purification, distillation)

• Prepare and analyze samples (GC, Karl Fischer, viscosity, titrations)
• Track reaction progress and document observations (e.g., color change, gas uptake, viscosity)
• Support QC lab activities and ensure data accuracy

• Maintain glove boxes, gas systems, pumps, and pressure equipment
• Troubleshoot small-scale equipment, piping, and distillation setups
• Ensure lab organization, chemical storage, and readiness

• Work safely with air-sensitive, flammable, and pressurized systems
• Conduct hazard reviews and follow strict safety protocols
• Support PSM-related activities and regulatory compliance

• Maintain detailed lab notebooks and batch records
• Capture experimental data with precision and rigor
• Contribute to SOPs and continuous improvement efforts

Required

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Technology, Materials Science, or related field
• Hands-on lab experience (academic, internship, or industry)
• Experience or exposure to air-sensitive techniques (glovebox, Schlenk line)
• Understanding of chemical safety and lab best practices
• Strong attention to detail and documentation skills

Preferred

• Experience with pressurized reactors or hydrogenation systems
• Familiarity with GC, moisture analysis, or similar techniques
• Background in R&D, pilot plant, or specialty chemicals
• Mechanical aptitude (equipment troubleshooting, minor repairs, piping)

• Curious and eager to learn—whether youre early career or experienced
• Hands-on and comfortable working with equipment, reactions, and analytical tools
• Safety-focused and detail-oriented
• A strong communicator who enjoys working across teams
• Motivated by innovation, sustainability, and creating real-world value

• Be part of a team developing new, renewable chemical technologies
• Gain exposure to scale-up, pilot plant operations, and process development
• Work in an environment where your contributions directly impact innovation
• Opportunity to grow your technical and practical skill set quickly

• $45,000 - $70,000 depending on experience
  • Entry (0-2 yrs): $45K - $55K
  • Mid-level (3-7 yrs): $55K - $70K

If you’re excited about working at the intersection of chemistry, innovation, and real-world applications, we’d love to connect.

EOE Statement: Specialist Staffing Group is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

In addition to base pay, direct-hire employees may be eligible for client offered benefits such as medical, dental, and vision coverage, and paid leave where required by applicable law. Eligibility may vary based on factors such as location and hire date and is subject to change.

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