Lab Technician (Materials Science)

TL;DR

Lab Technician (Materials Science): Supporting daily operations of a high-throughput materials experimentation facility with an accent on instrument calibration, QC protocols, and SOP development. Focus on optimizing manual material handling workflows and ensuring data integrity for AI-driven scientific breakthroughs.

Location: On-site in Menlo Park, California

Salary: $100,000–$130,000

Company

An AI and physical sciences company building state-of-the-art models to accelerate breakthroughs across materials and energy.

What you will do

• Perform regular calibration and verification of instruments and sensors, maintaining accurate records.
• Execute and refine QC workflows to ensure data integrity across experimental runs.
• Optimize manual material handling and preparation steps, including weighing, labeling, and batch preparation.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to develop and document SOPs for routine lab procedures.
• Manage lab inventory, chemical tracking, and ensure shared spaces are functional and clean.
• Troubleshoot equipment anomalies and participate in the validation of new labware and methods.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, materials science, mechanical/chemical engineering, or equivalent technical experience.
• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed SOPs with high precision and consistency.
• Comfort performing physical, repetitive tasks with a drive for efficiency.
• Strong written and verbal communication for clear documentation and collaboration.
• Proficiency with basic software tools such as Excel, Google Sheets, or lab inventory systems.
• Must be based in or able to work on-site in Menlo Park.

Nice to have

• Experience in robotics-integrated labs, pilot plants, or high-throughput R&D environments.
• Familiarity with LIMS, LES, MES, or SCADA process control systems.
• Prior work in cleanroom, semiconductor, battery, or analytical chemistry settings.
• Experience with characterization techniques such as XRD, SEM/EDS, TGA/DSC, or BET.
• Knowledge of powered machinery and tools like pallet jacks or impact wrenches.

Culture & Benefits

• Opportunity to work at the frontier of AI and physical sciences in a rapidly growing company.
• Environment emphasizing genuine ownership and high-paced scientific discovery.
• Visa sponsorship is available with full legal support.
• Collaboration with a world-class team of scientists and engineers.