Laboratory Technician (Energetics)

Laboratory Technician (Energetics)

Position Overview:

We are looking for a skilled and motivated laboratory technician to support analysis of solid rocket motor production materials. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with analytical chemistry and/or materials characterization instrumentation as well as a strong commitment to safety and quality. This role involves assisting in the setup, operation, and maintenance of analytical equipment designated for energetics characterization. This position will be trained to handle energetic/explosive materials.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work cohesively with the solid rocket motor propellant development and analysis team to procure, install, and manage analytical hardware and instrumentation.
• Operate and calibrate analytical instrumentation: assist in developing analytical procedures, calibration curves, failure envelopes, test standards, analytical results databases, etc.
• Assist with production of energetic and inert articles for analysis, maintain chemical inventories, and assist with chemical procurement.

Safety Compliance:

• Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures for working with energetic materials, including proper handling, storage, and disposal.
• Participate in safety briefings and training sessions to stay updated on best practices and safety regulations.
• Report any safety hazards or incidents immediately to the laboratory manager and/or Environmental Health and Safety and assist in incident investigations and corrective actions.

Data Collection and Analysis:

• Assist in establishing procedures to accurately collect, analyze, and interpret characterization data.
• Participate in analysis and results discussions/meetings. Assist in presenting relevant anomalies or issues and that may impact development efforts.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notation, adhere to analytical data management and governance best practices

Maintenance:

• Establish routine maintenance and calibration schedules for analytical instrumentation to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Troubleshoot and resolve instrumentation issues, coordinate with vendors or internal teams for more complex issues.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Prepare and maintain detailed records of analytical procedures, metadata, anomalies, and results.
• Assist in the preparation of analytical characterization reports, including summarizing data and highlighting key findings.
• Ensure compliance with all documentation standards and quality control procedures.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with energetics development and production team, quality, and management to ensure prioritization of key objectives are reporting.
• Communicate effectively with team members; cross-functional and direct, to maintain efficiency and productivity.

Requirements:

• Experience: Preferred minimum of 2 years of experience in a chemistry or mechanical/materials testing laboratory performing structured analytical work, data collection, data analysis.     
• Knowledge: General understanding of energetic or high energy density materials, general knowledge of polymer chemistry, familiarity with general chemical analysis equipment including auto-titration, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and destructive and non-destructive material testing.  Understanding of safety protocols for handling hazardous materials. Ability to read, write, and follow Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
• Skills: Strong laboratory technique and hygiene practices. The ability to think critically. Proficiency with data analysis software, analytical instrumentation software, Microsoft Office suite, and experience presenting analytical results. Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Certifications: Analytical chemistry or material characterization certifications are a plus.
• Other: Ability to work in a high-pace environment with a focus on safety and precision.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds and perform physical tasks related to test setups and equipment handling.
• Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures and conditions, including outdoor and controlled test environments.

Work Environment:

• The position involves working in office, test facilities, and laboratories which may include exposure to hazardous materials and conditions. Strict adherence to safety protocols and procedures is mandatory.

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $24.04 - $33.65/hour, determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The salary range for this role is intentionally wide as we are evaluating individuals based on their unique experience and abilities to fit our needs. Most importantly, we are excited to meet you, and see if you are a great fit for our team. What we can’t quantify for you are the exciting challenges, supportive team, and amazing culture we enjoy. Click here for more information about our awesome benefits.

Classification: Full-time Non-Exempt.