Instrument Technician

Rain Carbon Inc; Sulphur (LA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Rain Carbon Inc. in Sulphur, LA is seeking a skilled Instrumentation Technician to maintain and support laboratory equipment, ensuring data quality and reliability. The role involves operation, calibration, and troubleshooting of sample preparation equipment and analytical instruments.

You will collaborate with QA chemists, assist with lab projects, and participate in continuous process improvements, with occasional travel for calibration and a strong emphasis on safety and documentation.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or technical certification in instrumentation or related field required.
• Minimum 5 years in instrumentation, laboratory, or industrial maintenance.
• Ability to read and apply safety procedures and technical manuals.
• Occasional travel for equipment calibration.

Responsibilities

• Calibrate and maintain lab equipment to ensure accuracy.
• Perform preventive maintenance and troubleshooting of instrumentation.
• Assist QA Chemist with QA/QC programs.
• Support training of laboratory analysts.
• Back up QA Chemist and assist with on-call coverage.
• Travel occasionally for equipment calibration.
• Report safety and equipment issues to management.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of lab processes.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Data analysis

Verbal & written communication

Reading technical documents

Independent & team work

Education

Associate degree or technical certification in instrumentation or related field

Tools

Calibration software

XRF

XRD

Job description

At Rain Carbon Inc., we're dedicated to assembling exceptional teams, nurturing talent, and fostering personal and professional growth. Join us in a safe, supportive environment where you can realize your full potential with the tools, guidance, and opportunities to thrive.

Our global offices facilitate seamless operations, complemented by state-of-the-art production facilities in Belgium, Canada, Germany, India, Poland, and the USA where we cultivate enduring partnerships and ensure market success through consistent quality and customized solutions. With an unwavering commitment to reliability and responsibility, we foster a culture of excellence across all levels of our organization.

Purpose

Maintains and supports laboratory instrumentation and equipment to ensure reliable performance and data quality. Responsibilities include equipment installation, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs, calibration, verification, and participation in analytical method improvements.The laboratory primarily performs preparation and testing of granular and solid materials. This role is responsible for the operation, support, maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of sample preparation equipment, including but not limited to jaw crushers, roll crushers, screens, mills, drying ovens, and high-temperature furnaces. The position also supports and maintains laboratory instrumentation such as helium pycnometers, CO₂ reactivity equipment, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), electrical resistivity systems, and bulk density measurement equipment.

Duties & Responsibilities

Performs activities based on priority, equipment and instrumentation availability, and available funding. Although some of the aspects of work may be defined, other parts may be variable and non-routine. Participates in problem solving activities related to improving the lab process and work environment.

• Ensure lab equipment is calibrated.
• Ensure lab equipment is well maintained.
• Assist QA Chemist with the Laboratory QA/QC program.
• Assist Lab Staff with lab special projects including round robins, equipment procurement, and troubleshooting analytical procedure issues.
• Backs up QA Chemist, including on-call.
• Assist with training laboratory analysts.
• Assist lab analysts as needed.
• Reports any problems or safety issues to appropriate personnel.
• Participates in the continuous improvement of lab processes.
• Occasional travel required for equipment calibration.
• Performs additional duties as required.

Education and Experience

Associate degree, technical certification, or vocational training in instrumentation, electronics, industrial technology, chemistry, or a related field preferred. A minimum of five (5) years of relevant instrumentation, laboratory, or industrial maintenance experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will also be considered.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

Ability to read, interpret, and apply technical documents, including safety procedures, company policies, laboratory methods, equipment manuals, technical drawings, and operating instructions.

Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively interact with employees, contractors, vendors, and management at all levels of the organization.

Ability to present technical information and training to individuals or small groups.

Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose, repair, and maintain laboratory instrumentation and related equipment.

Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively as part of a team.

Ability to perform mathematical calculations, apply formulas, and utilize basic statistical and analytical concepts.

Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make sound decisions based on available information and resources.

Ability to interpret and follow instructions provided in written, verbal, diagrammatic, or schedule form.

Proficiency with computer-based laboratory systems, calibration software, and common business applications.

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to handle, operate, and manipulate tools, instruments, and equipment. The employee is frequently required to reach, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, squat, and occasionally work in confined or awkward positions.

The employee must regularly lift, push, and/or pull up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift, push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds.

Specific vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

This position is performed primarily in a laboratory environment and may require work in manufacturing or processing areas. The employee may be exposed to moving mechanical equipment, electrical systems, elevated temperatures, chemicals, and other industrial hazards.

The use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when performing assigned duties. Hearing protection may be required in designated areas where noise levels exceed acceptable limits.

Employees are expected to follow all safety procedures, laboratory quality standards, and environmental regulations applicable to the work being performed.

Rain Carbon Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive environment. Rain Carbon Inc. prohibits discrimination in all employment-based practices and all applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, disability, or other protected status.