Laboratory and Process Technician

TerraSafe Materials is seeking a skilled Lab Technician/Analyst to join our mission in developing innovative biomaterials for sustainable packaging materials. As an early-stage startup within Big Idea Ventures’ Generation Food Rural Partners Fund, we are dedicated to creating products and that reduce the world's reliance on and harmful exposure single-use plastics.

We are looking for creative self-starters who excel in both independent and collaborative environments. At TerraSafe Materials, we value a culture of innovation where team members are encouraged to share ideas and lead the development of cutting-edge materials technologies, products, and processes. Our ultimate goal is to drive the growth of our company while significantly reducing single-use plastic waste and human exposure to micro and nanoplastics.

This technical position requires a strong background in laboratory work and process technology, with a specific focus on biopolymer coatings, films, and composites. We are open to candidates with varying levels of experience who demonstrate the right skills and potential in these areas. The role is full-time and based at our research and development laboratory at our company headquarters located in Youngsville, NC.

Job Summary We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Laboratory Technician to join our team. The ideal candidate will support scientific research and development by performing a variety of laboratory procedures. This role requires a strong understanding of laboratory techniques and the ability to maintain quality control standards in compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP). The Laboratory Technician will work closely with scientists and process engineers to ensure accurate data collection and analysis.

Duties

· Conduct laboratory experiments and procedures following established protocols.

· Carry out sample testing, characterization, and data collection and recording, with a focus on materials properties.

· Prepare and analyze samples using various laboratory techniques

· Maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring proper functioning and adherence to safety standards.

· Document experimental results accurately in laboratory information management systems.

· Assist in the development of new research methodologies and protocols.

· Perform quality control checks on materials and processes to ensure compliance with GLP.

· Assist in the development and documentation of new procedures for applications and product testing

· Analyze findings against existing samples and protocols. Formulate and report evidence related to material performance.

· Coordinate internal and third-party material testing, including mechanical, thermal, chemical, and environmental testing.

· Engage and collaborate with team members on research projects, contributing to scientific discussions and findings.

Skills

· Proficiency in laboratory procedures and techniques relevant to scientific research.

· Strong mathematical skills for data analysis and interpretation.

· Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

· Knowledge of quality control processes and GLP regulations.

· Attention to detail and organizational skills.

· Ability to work independently as well as part of a collaborative team environment.

· Strong communication skills for effective interaction with colleagues and supervisors.

Qualifications

Associate of Science in Chemistry, Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field, or equivalent vocational experience with a focus on coatings, films, or composites.

· Hands-on experience with equipment such as film casting machines, spray coaters, optical microscopes, tensile testing and gas permeability machines

· Familiarity with material characterization techniques DSC, TGA, rheology, adhesion testing, microscopy, FTIR, chemical analysis, and surface energy measurements.

· Strong analytical, research, and innovation skills.

· Excellent communication skills, both with scientists and non-scientists.

· Project Management and Documentation Control experience.

We are committed to an inclusive environment; please apply if you have a strong interest and aptitude for this position, even if you don’t meet the exact requirements. Join us in advancing scientific knowledge through meticulous research and innovative laboratory practices to eliminate our reliance on ubiquitous plastic!

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

· 401(k)

· Dental insurance

· Health insurance

· Paid time off

· Vision insurance

Schedule:

· Day shift

Experience:

· Laboratory: 3 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

· Youngsville, NC 27596 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

· Youngsville, NC 27596: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $68,000.00 - $78,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Do you have familiarity with material characterization techniques DSC, TGA, rheology, adhesion testing, microscopy, FTIR, chemical analysis, and surface energy measurements.

Education:

• Associate (Required)

Experience:

• Laboratory: 1 year (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Youngsville, NC 27596 (Required)

Work Location: In person