R&D Laboratory Technician

Chevron; Richmond (CA); On-site; USD 68,000 - 102,000; Full time

Job summary

Chevron in Richmond, CA seeks an operator to run distillation and lab equipment under supervision. You will maintain logs, handoffs, and safety documentation, completing required training before independent tasks.

Role emphasizes safety, OE participation, and teamwork across shifts on a 9/80 schedule. Prior lab or plant experience and strong mechanical aptitude are valued.

Qualifications

• Learns and follows technical procedures and instructions.
• Minimum high school diploma with relevant experience.
• Experience in plant or lab operations is preferred.
• Commitment to lab safety and OE principles.

Responsibilities

• Operates distillation and lab equipment per supervisor guidance.
• Maintains run logs and electronic records; supports shift handoffs.
• Completes on-the-job training in safety, SOPs, and samples handling.
• Participates in safety and Operational Excellence activities.
• Inspects equipment for unsafe conditions and proper operation.

Skills

Strong teamwork

Communication skills

Mechanical aptitude

Safety mindset

Education

High school diploma

Associate degree / technical training (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft 365 apps

Job description

Job Description

• Operates distillation and process laboratory equipment, process units, and utility systems according to researcher instructions and under the direction of a supervisor or lead technician. Equipment includes large and small reactors and distillation columns operating at elevated temperatures and at atmospheric and sub-atmospheric pressures.
• Maintains accurate run logs and electronic records and provides clear shift handoffs covering run status, sample status, and outstanding issues.
• Completes structured on-the-job training in laboratory safety, operating procedures, equipment operation, and sample handling. Demonstrates qualification before independently performing assigned tasks.
• Participates in safety and Operational Excellence (OE) activities individually, as part of the assigned crew, and across the business unit.
• Inspects equipment to identify unsafe conditions or improper operation.
• Supports the handling of research and crude oil assay samples for internal customers, including other laboratories, and external customers.
• Works a Monday–Friday, 9/80 schedule, rotating among graveyard, day, and swing shifts every three weeks.

Required Qualifications

• Ability to learn technical procedures, follow written instructions, and complete required training and equipment qualifications.
• High school diploma
• At least two years of plant or laboratory operations experience, or equivalent work experience in a mechanical field.
• Experience safely operating process equipment and instruments
• A firm commitment to lab safety, Operational Excellence, and Human Organizational Performance
• Strong mechanical aptitude
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications, including Excel and Word.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships within the team and across other work groups.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent technical training in science, technology, a mechanical or pipefitting trade, or a related field.
• Relevant coursework or completion of a refinery operator or process technology training program.
• Some knowledge of basic control instrumentation and electrical systems
• Experience handling chemicals, heavy oil, distillates, or related research materials.

Regulatory Disclosure For US Positions

• The compensation and reference to benefits for this role is listed on this posting in compliance with applicable law. Please note that the compensation and benefits listed below are only applicable for U.S. payroll offers.
• The anticipated salary range for this position is $67,700 – $101,500. The selected candidate’s compensation will be determined based on their skills, experience, and qualifications.
• Chevron offers competitive compensation and benefits programs which includes, but is not limited to, variable pay, health care coverage, retirement plan, protection coverage, time off and leave programs, training and development opportunities and a range of allowances connected to specific work situations. Details are available at http://hr2.chevron.com/.

Relocation Options

Relocation will not be considered.

International Considerations

Expatriate assignments will not be considered.

Chevron regrets that it is unable to sponsor employment Visas or consider individuals on time-limited Visa status for this position.