Lab Technician

Job Summary: 

The Laboratory Technician performs tests and analyses in the renewable refinery laboratory. This position prepares samples and utilizes instruments to analyze the samples, ensuring the testing devices are operating correctly. Troubleshoots when instruments are not operating correctly. Maintains knowledge of the use of 20+ instruments to ensure coverage of all laboratory tasks. 

Essential Functions: 

• Generate and/or evaluate lab-scale samples and testing for Operations 
• Assist other business units with evaluation of feedstocks 
• Support Engineering in problem solving and optimizing facility, and provide relevant information for further decisions 
• Interface with other functions such as Operations, research personnel and Engineering, Environmental, and provide timely results to assure the quality of products shipped to customers 
• Assist with processing samples to ensure efficient and safe operation of the facility 
• Troubleshoot and maintain the equipment needed for analyzing and routine processing of gaseous, chemical, and environmental samples 
• Maintain appropriate logs, notebooks, and other records including computer documents 
• Understand and follow EHS, SOPs, regulations, and guidelines to maintain a safe work environment 
• Clean and maintain lab equipment, including recalibration of equipment 
• Stay current on technical and scientific advances in field 
• Perform general wet chemistry- including but not limited to titration (Acid-Base, Karl Fischer, etc.), pH Measurement, Density/Specific Gravity Measurement, Viscosity Measurement, Flash Point/Cloud Point Analysis (ASTM D93, D7683), Distillation (ASTM D86), Carbon residue/Ash Content Analysis, Water & Sediment (BS&W) Analysis. 
• Perform chromatography (Gas Chromatography Operation & Troubleshooting and GC Data Interpretation & Quantitation) and spectroscopy (Inductively Coupled Plasma, UV-Vis Spectroscopy, and Infrared Spectroscopy) 
• Perform other specialized tests. Including but not limited to Sulfur Analysis, Nitrogen Analysis (Combustion), Reid Vapor Pressure, H2S in Water Analysis, Color (Saybolt, ASTM), Cetane Index/Number, Lubricity Testing. 
• Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned – may be called to be on the Emergency Response Team 

Required Skills/Abilities: 

• Capable of managing multiple tasks and effectively working across multiple teams 
• Comfortable performing physical and analytical testing 
• Good mechanical aptitude and not afraid to be hands-on 
• Proven experience with lab equipment setup, physical tests (i.e., density, temperature, etc.), chemical handling, sample preparation, and documentation 
• Must be willing to take ownership of Laboratory equipment and willing to be trained to learn additional skills 
• Must be able to work overtime or evening shifts 
• In depth knowledge of QHSE management systems, preventative measures, and laboratory best practices 
• Knowledge of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), Data Entry & Record Keeping and Data Analysis & Interpretation 
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail 
• Strong communication and teamwork skills 
• Knowledge of federal and state financial regulations 
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office, database systems, and lab equipment 
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 
• Ability to follow strict procedures 
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment 
• Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) 
• Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Adherence 
• Interlaboratory Cross-Check Programs 
• Data Integrity & Validation 
• Method Validation & Verification Support 
• Audit Participation 
• Provide after-hours support when appropriate – emergency call out 

Supervisory Responsibilities: 

None 

Education and Experience: 

• High School Diploma/GED or Associate's Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Technology, or related field 
• Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field (Preferred) 
• A valid drivers license 
• 3 plus years of experience required, greater than 5 years preferred 
• Working experience operating electrical and non-electrical lab equipment 

Physical Requirements: 

• Excellent dexterity and hand-eye coordination 
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer 
• Prolonged periods of standing and walking 
• Must be able to pass a physical test of pushing, pulling, and lifting a minimum of 50 lbs 
• Ability to perform repetitive movements over long periods of time 
• Requires frequent reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, and crouching 
• Requires lifting, positioning, pushing, and/or transferring equipment and materials 
• Exposure to various laboratory chemicals and compounds 
• Ability to work in confined spaces and wear self-contained breathing apparatus 
• Must be able to climb ladders and or stairs on tanks, vessels and structures; wear respirator; work around equipment containing high pressures and temperatures and various chemicals 

Other Duties 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

Equal Employment Opportunity 

Grapevine Operating Company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.