Laboratory Tech - (specializing in Low Carbon Constructional Materials)

The Catholic University of America is seeking a Laboratory Technician specializing in Low Carbon Constructional Materials in Washington, DC. The role involves supporting R&D programs, conducting various tests on geopolymer-based products, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring compliance with quality assurance standards. Candidates should have a relevant Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, with at least 2 years in laboratory procedures and experience with laboratory equipment.
Posting Title: Laboratory Tech - (specializing in Low Carbon Constructional Materials) Overview:

Under the general administrative direction of the VSL Specific Laboratory Supervisor, will work as a project team member in our laboratory to actively support R&D programs in a range of geopolymer-based products such as ultrahigh and high-performance concretes, alkali-activated slag, architectural and structural concretes, fire-resistant joint compounds, self-compacting concrete, and ultralight concrete. The laboratory technician will perform standardized and specialty testing; examples of these tests will include, but are not limited to: compressive and flexural strengths, shrinkage, freeze-thaw, isothermal calorimetry, rheology, and alkali silica reaction. Functions and completes routine and moderately complex testing and assignments independently.

The projected salary or hourly pay range for this position which represents the full range of anticipated compensation is: up to $52,000.

Responsibilities:
• Supports operations of a specific laboratory or specific pieces of apparatus at Laboratory Supervisor's discretion.
• Runs experiments and collects data: Prepares experiments and samples for testing; After appropriate training, operates designated pieces of equipment; Collects data and makes records in log books; Checks experimental equipment and maintains proper calibration; Adheres to specific written laboratory procedures for processes.
• Supports the development and documentation of new laboratory procedures.
• Maintains stock inventory of laboratory supplies and chemicals. Must be able to recognize and properly segregate hazardous substances for storage or disposal as necessary and assist with labeling of hazardous and chemical waste for disposal.
• Maintains log books in manner consistent with written procedures, including: Making accurate records in log books; Making spreadsheets, text documents, and plots using software packages; Following written procedures for maintaining log books.
• Ensures compliance with Laboratory Quality Assurance Plan and meet NQA-1 Basic Requirements in experimental work and documentation of that work.
• Flexibility to learn and move between multiple laboratories on an as-needed basis.

Qualifications:
• A Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent* in a discipline related to the duties of the position such as chemistry, materials science, or engineering.
• A minimum of 2 years’ experience (in lieu of required formal education).
• One (1) year of laboratory or professional experience, with demonstrated experience in laboratory procedures involving physical and chemical analysis.
• Experience with laboratory equipment and processes, including but not limited to: Quality control, maintenance of environmental standards, and other work related to practical, experimental or theoretical application of chemistry and related sciences.
• Effective monitoring of lab inventory and routine equipment maintenance.
• Techniques such as quantitative pipetting and weighing, titration, and physical or chemical separation techniques.
• Experience with instrumental chromatography, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry or microscopy is advantageous.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instruction, perform scientific measurement and collect data, work independently, as well as work as a member of a team.
• Proficiency in the use of personal computers and standard software packages, along with effective oral and written communication skills.