| Description |
| Posting Title |
Research Technician III - Biomass Analysis |
| Requisition Number |
2980BR |
| Location |
Golden, CO |
| Position Type |
Temporary Employee - Full Time |
| Hours Per Week |
40 |
| Job/Research Summary |
The Biomass Analysis Section provides analytical chemistry support to all research and development groups within the National Bioenergy Center. Team members have developed several Laboratory Analytical Procedures (LAPs) for the preparation and analysis of biomass. The technician will follow the direction of staff in performing these detailed analytical procedures on biomass samples, keeping accurate and detailed laboratory records, maintaining and operating analytical instruments, and reporting data. Specific duties include the extensive preparation of samples for analysis using bench-top set chemistry, including, but not limited to: acid hydrolysis, dilutions, preparation of solutions, neutralizations and filtrations. Sample preparation will also include the use of instrumentation associated with milling, drying, weighing, centrifuging and washing. Sample analysis will include the use of high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, GC/MS (Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry ), and LC/MS (Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry ), and will require the routine maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory analytical instruments. The candidate will report to staff regarding work progress and results.
The successful candidate will show a strong aptitude for analytical chemistry applied to biomass materials, including an understanding of fundamental concepts, and demonstrate significant attention to detail. They will also demonstrate clear recordkeeping skills with special attention to data traceability, unexpected observations, and errors in procedures. |
| Job Duties |
The technician will follow the direction of staff in performing detailed biomass analysis procedures, keeping accurate and detailed laboratory records, maintaining and operating analytical instruments, and reporting data. Specific duties include the extensive preparation of samples for analysis using bench-top set chemistry, including, but not limited to: acid hydrolysis, dilutions, preparation of solutions, neutralizations and filtrations. Sample preparation will also include the use of instrumentation associated with milling, drying, weighing, centrifuging and washing. Sample analysis will include the use of high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, GC/MS (Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry ), and LC/MS (Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry ), and will require the routine maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory analytical instruments. The candidate will report to staff regarding work progress and results. The successful candidate will show a strong aptitude for analytical chemistry applied to biomass materials, including an understanding of fundamental concepts, and demonstrate significant attention to detail. They will also demonstrate clear recordkeeping skills with special attention to data traceability, unexpected observations, and errors in procedures. |
| Required Education and Experience |
High School Diploma or equivalent and 7 or more years of experience or equivalent relevant education/experience.
Or, relevant Associate's Degree or certification program of comparable scope and 5 or more years of experience or equivalent relevant education/experience. |
| Required Knowledge, Skills and Attributes |
Full knowledge of specialized focused support functions. Complete acquaintance with and understanding of the general and detailed aspects of the supported activities, and their practical applications to problems and situations ordinarily encountered.
Proficient in research techniques and practices. Solid communication, interpersonal, project management and customer relations skills. |
| Additional Required Knowledge, Skills and Attributes |
Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with NREL Laboratory Analytical Procedures (LAPs) for biomass compositional analysis. Previous HPLC, GC/MS and LC/MS experience. Demonstrated ability to work as part of a larger research team as well as work independently. Demonstrated ability to maintain a safe working environment. Excellent communication skills. |
| EEO Policy |
NREL is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity. NREL promotes a work environment that does not discriminate against workers or job applicants and prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, ancestry, actual or perceived sexual orientation, or veteran status, including special disabled veterans.
NREL validates right to work using E-Verify. NREL will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. For additional information, please see www.nrel.gov/employment/eeo.html. |
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