Lab Tech

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The R&D Emulsion group is currently seeking a lab assistant that will act in a supportive role to the Emulsion R&D Laboratory in emulsion manufacturing on both a lab and pilot plant scale. Duties will include the operation of production equipment, assisting chemists in lab functions, data collection and entry, procurement of supplies, inventory tracking and routine housekeeping. The ideal candidate should have some mechanical and chemical experience in a manufacturing and/or laboratory setting, be organized, task driven and able to work with minimal supervision, and capable of operating a computerized control system.

The successful applicant will be responsible for gathering raw materials, preparing and cleaning the emulsion laboratory and production areas, supporting operations, and operating and troubleshooting production equipment at R&D’s new Pilot-Scale Emulsion Plant. As new tasks develop in the Emulsion R&D Lab, the candidate must be open-minded and willing to take on new training to perform additional duties. The applicant must understand and follow Standard Operating Procedures (Work Instructions) or give input to develop new ones.

Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs., sit, stand, climb stairs and qualify for all required PPE.

• Operate production and pilot-scale equipment for emulsion manufacturing.
• Assist chemists with laboratory tasks including sample preparation and testing.
• Collect, record, and enter data into laboratory systems.
• Procure supplies and track inventory for lab and pilot plant operations.
• Perform routine housekeeping and maintain cleanliness of lab and production areas.
• Gather raw materials and prepare work spaces for production runs.
• Troubleshoot and maintain production equipment.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and contribute to the development of new work instructions.
• Support new training initiatives and take on additional duties as needed.

High school diploma or equivalent required. Minimum 1 year of experience in chemical manufacturing or laboratory setting. Experience operating manufacturing equipment and computerized control systems. Ability to work independently and collaboratively depending on task requirements.

• Mechanical aptitude and hands‑on problem‑solving skills.
• Strong organizational and task management abilities.
• Effective communication skills.
• Self‑motivated and proactive.
• Basic computer skills for data entry and system operation.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., climb stairs, and wear required PPE.
• Willingness to work overtime when needed.

Work is performed in both laboratory and pilot plant settings. Regular exposure to chemical substances and manufacturing equipment. Requires use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety protocols. Physical demands include lifting, standing, climbing, and operating machinery. May involve occasional overtime and flexible scheduling based on project needs.

Austin Powder is an Equal Opportunity and affirmative action employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job‑related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

Austin Powder also participates in E‑Verify. This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60‑1.4(a), 60‑300.5(a) and 60‑741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and prohibiting inquiries, discussions or disclosing compensation.

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