Chemical Pilot Plant Operator

RTI International is an independent, scientific research institute dedicated to improving the human condition. Our vision is to address the world's most critical problems with technical and science-based solutions in pursuit of a better future. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach-one that integrates expertise across social, statistical, data, and laboratory sciences, engineering, and other technical disciplines to solve the world's most challenging problems.

We believe in the promise of science and technical solutions, and we push ourselves every day to deliver on that promise for the good of people, communities, and businesses in the US and around the world. If you are looking for the opportunity to make a real difference, RTI is the place for you.

Technology, Advancement and Commercialization (TAC) provides scientific and engineering solutions for difficult problems existing in the fields of health, energy and environment. In TAC, applied research and development, along with prototyping and scale-up activities, are concentrated in numerous research and application labs, as well as in a pilot plant facility located on RTI's main campus.

There are different research projects within TAC but this role is within our Sustainable Energy Solutions group. In pursuit of economical biomass conversion, our team conducts applied research and develops novel process technologies, focusing on thermochemical conversion of biomass through pyrolysis and gasification pathways. By combining our collective experience in advanced gasification research and catalytic conversion technologies with our state-of-the-art equipment and test systems, we are uniquely equipped to address client needs for catalytic fast pyrolysis, biocrude stabilization, and biocrude upgrading. We also perform comprehensive economic and life-cycle analyses for biofuels and bio-derived chemicals technologies.

We are currently seeking a Chemical Pilot Plant Technician to assist chemical engineers and research staff with hands-on laboratory and pilot plant work. Responsibilities include operating and maintaining equipment, collecting test data, troubleshooting equipment or process issues, and adhering to strict safety protocols and procedures. This role will also involve a significant amount of operations and pilot plant shift work to support ongoing experimental and production activities.

Laboratory & Pilot Operations

• Commission, operate, and troubleshoot laboratory and pilot-scale systems, including pumps, compressors, chemical reactors, and separation vessels.
• Install, calibrate, and maintain process analytical instruments such as gas chromatographs and gas analyzers.
• Monitor experimental campaigns, identify deviations or process upsets, and communicate findings promptly to engineering staff.
• Maintain detailed, accurate records of experimental activities, including data collection, analysis, and reporting through graphs, charts, and written summaries.
• Update and improve standard operating procedures (SOPs) to reflect evolving best practices.

Sample Collection & Preparation

• Collect and label samples accurately from experimental campaigns, ensuring proper handling and preparation for laboratory analysis in accordance with established protocols.

Technical Support & Equipment Maintenance

• Perform routine maintenance and servicing of laboratory and pilot equipment to ensure reliable operation.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot equipment or instrumentation malfunctions, coordinating with engineers for repairs or upgrades as needed.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all facility safety protocols, including use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper labeling and disposal of hazardous materials, and immediate reporting of safety incidents or concerns.
• Promote a culture of safety and continuous improvement within the laboratory environment

High School Diploma and 10 years of experience, Associate's Degree and 5 years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Skills & Abilities

• Excellent knowledge of MS Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks
• Ability to work well with others.
• Ability to listen and communicate well verbally and in writing
• Ability to work independently and in groups
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Demonstration of RTI Values and Lead Forward behaviors

Specialist Skills

• Strong understanding of basic principles for chemical process operations
• Strong hands-on mechanical skills
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques
• Ability to operate and maintain complex equipment
• Ability to strictly adhere to Standard Operating Procedures and document variance
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills

For San Francisco, CA USA Job Postings Only: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Further information is available here.

RTI accepts applications to our job openings from candidates with criminal histories or conviction records in accordance with all applicable laws, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

For Applicants in Massachusetts Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

The anticipated pay range for this role is listed below. Our pay ranges represent national averages and may vary by location as a geographic differential may be applied to some locations within the United States. RTI considers multiple factors when making an offer including, for example: established salary range, internal budget, business needs, and education and years of work experience possessed by the applicant. Further, salary is merely one element to our offer.

At RTI, we demonstrate our commitment to rewarding individual and team achievement through a total rewards package. This package includes (among other things) a competitive base salary, a generous paid time off policy, merit based annual increases, bonus opportunities and a robust recognition program. Other benefits include a competitive range of insurance plans (including health, dental, life, and short-term and long-term disability), access to a retirement savings program such as a 401(k) plan, paid parental leave for all parents, financial assistance with adoption expenses or infertility treatments, financial reimbursement for education and developmental opportunities, an employee assistance program, and numerous other offerings to support a healthy work-life balance.