Laboratory Research Associate

Alder Renewables; Louisville (CO); On-site; USD 27,552 - 41,328; Full time

Job summary

A clean fuels startup in Colorado seeks a highly motivated Research Associate to support laboratory testing. This position involves tasks like experimental setup and data collection to advance proprietary technology. Ideal candidates should hold a Bachelor’s degree in engineering or chemistry and possess strong analytical skills. The role offers full-time, hands-on exposure in a collaborative environment focused on innovative clean fuel solutions. Competitive hourly compensation of $20 to $30 based on qualifications.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as engineering or chemistry.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Previous research experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support laboratory operations involving biomass-derived liquids and fuels.
• Assist in data collection through lab experiments.
• Help maintain research databases and records.
• Conduct literature reviews.
• Support the interpretation of data.
• Help draft research reports and summaries.

Skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or chemistry

Job description

About Us:

Alder Renewables is a fast-growing clean fuels startup focused on producing refinery-ready biocrude from sustainable biomass. Backed by leading investors and strategic industry partners, Alder is in an execution-focused scale-up phase, offering employees hands-on exposure to real-world scale-up, fuels testing, pilot-scale operations, and technology commercialization.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to support laboratory testing in our R&D facility. This hands-on role will assist with experimental setup, sample preparation, and data collection to advance our proprietary technology from lab validation toward commercial readiness. The ideal candidate brings a positive, solutions-oriented mindset, strong organizational skills, and the ability to follow detailed experimental procedures in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. This role provides exposure to pilot-scale systems, cross-functional engineering teams, and the scale-up challenges associated with commercial clean fuel deployment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support laboratory operations involving biomass-derived liquids, fuels, and process intermediates.
• Assist in data collection through lab experiments and chemical analyses.
• Help manage and maintain research databases and records.
• Conduct literature reviews and gather information from various sources.
• Support the interpretation of data and identification of trends.
• Help draft research reports, summaries, and briefs.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as engineering or chemistry.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Previous or research experience is strongly preferred.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and contact information for two professional references to: [e-mail]

Our values:

• Push the boundaries of the possible: We're not afraid to innovate and challenge the status quo, seeking groundbreaking solutions to complex problems.
• Sustainability by design: We prioritize sustainability in all aspects of our work, from product development to daily operations.
• Operate with humility: We approach our work with a humble attitude, recognizing that there's always more to learn and room for improvement.
• Collaborate with empathy & respect: Collaboration is key to our success. We treat each other and our partners with empathy and respect, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Data-driven decision making: We rely on data and evidence to make informed decisions, ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of our processes.

Location:

AlderRenewables 1450 Infinite Drive, Ste 115

Job Type:

Full-time, hourly position for 40 hours per week.

Compensation:

Range of $20 to $30 per hour, based on qualifications and experience.