Lab Technician I

Airswift; Richmond (CA); On-site; USD 30,307 - 38,572; Full time

Job summary

Airswift is seeking a Lab Technician I for an industrial R&D lab in Richmond, CA, focusing on separation processes for hydrocarbons. The role involves bench-scale to pilot-scale work, with emphasis on safety and high-temperature/high-pressure equipment.

You will prepare solvents, operate instruments, calibrate equipment, collect data, and support engineers. This temporary position offers hands-on experience in a chemical lab within a team of researchers.

Qualifications

• College-level chemistry knowledge is required.
• Strong mathematical and data interpretation abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word.
• Ability to work safely in a laboratory handling chemicals and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Support research and development of physical and chemical separation processes for hydrocarbons across laboratory, bench-scale and potentially pilot-scale activities.
• Prepare separation agents such as solvents, adsorbents and membranes, and evaluate performance using small-scale batch and flow units.
• Operate, troubleshoot, maintain and repair separations test equipment, bench-scale units and laboratory instruments.
• Carry out instrument calibration, preventive maintenance and general laboratory upkeep to maintain a clean, organised and safe environment.
• Compile experimental data, perform basic calculations and support data workup for interpretation by research engineers.
• Assist with fabrication or setup of bench-scale equipment and support non-routine laboratory tasks as required.
• Maintain chemical inventory, support safety inspections, update procedures, order supplies and assist with packing and shipping samples where needed.

Skills

Chemistry knowledge

Math skills

Data analysis

MS Excel

MS Outlook

MS Word

Attention to detail

Lab safety

Education

College-level chemistry knowledge

Tools

Analytical instrument software

Laboratory instruments

Instrument calibration software

Job description

Lab Technician I

Duration: Initially 6 months (with possibility of extension / go direct)

Location: Richmond, California

Rotation: 9/80 schedule

Role Context

This role is based in an industrial research and development laboratory supporting separations work for hydrocarbons. The position operates within a technical team environment under the guidance of research engineers and other laboratory technologists. The working environment includes laboratory, bench‑scale and potentially pilot‑scale experimental activity, with a strong focus on safe operation when handling chemicals and high‑pressure or high‑temperature process units.

Key Responsibilities

• Support research and development of physical and chemical separation processes for hydrocarbons across laboratory, bench‑scale and potentially pilot‑scale activities.
• Prepare separation agents such as solvents, adsorbents and membranes, and evaluate performance using small‑scale batch and flow units.
• Operate, troubleshoot, maintain and repair separations test equipment, bench‑scale units and laboratory instruments.
• Carry out instrument calibration, preventive maintenance and general laboratory upkeep to maintain a clean, organised and safe environment.
• Compile experimental data, perform basic calculations and support data workup for interpretation by research engineers.
• Assist with fabrication or setup of bench‑scale equipment and support non‑routine laboratory tasks as required.
• Maintain chemical inventory, support safety inspections, update procedures, order supplies and assist with packing and shipping samples where needed.

Qualifications & Experience

• College‑level chemistry knowledge and strong mathematical skills.
• Good computer skills and strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience using Microsoft Outlook, Excel for data manipulation and graphing, Word, and analytical instrument software.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify issues and support practical solutions.
• Ability to work safely and effectively in a laboratory environment involving chemicals and process equipment.