Critical Materials Lab Tech - Research Corporation - West Virginia University Research Corporation

The West Virginia University Research Corporation / West Virginia Water Research Institute is currently accepting applications for a Critical Materials Lab Tech.

About the Opportunity:

This role plays a pivotal part in advancing the ongoing exploration of rare earth elements (REE) and critical materials (CM) from non-traditional sources, notably acid mine drainage. Responsibilities encompass conducting crucial bench-scale laboratory experiments, overseeing treatment systems operation, and meticulously documenting laboratory test results pertinent to the separation and retrieval of REE and CM. Moreover, this role contributes significantly to project technical reporting, proposal formulation, and ensures the execution of all tasks in adherence to health and safety protocols. Its significance extends to the prosperous realization of various Department of Energy (DOE) and Department of Defense (DOD) funded initiatives.

At WVU Research Corporation, we strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU Research Corporation offers a comprehensive benefits package with a variety of options to suit your needs:
• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• PTO 
• 403(b) retirement savings with a fully vested 3% employee contribution match, (Employees have the option of contributing an additional 1-3% of their earnings to the plan, which is also matched by the WVURC) 
• A range of health insurance and various other benefits 
• Dependent Education Scholarship
• WVU Perks

What you'll do:

• Designs and develops bench-scale laboratory experiments tailored for real-world treatment operations.
• Maintains comprehensive laboratory records, delivering both verbal and written reports and summaries.
• Supports the creation and execution of laboratory chemical hygiene plans (CHPs), handling all hazardous materials responsibly.
• Assists in implementing operational protocols, including refining existing standard operating procedures and crafting new ones based on research outcomes.
• Operates both bench-scale and full-scale treatment units, adhering to standardized procedures.
• Upholds laboratory safety and environmental compliance standards without compromise.
• Offers research and development backing for acid mine drainage treatment within the REE team.
• Coordinates and receives deliveries.
• Utilizes equipment such as skid steer, heavy overhead crane.
• Facilitates vendor interactions, procurement processes, budget monitoring, and navigates WVU procurement protocols and platforms.
• Collaborates with the Critical Materials Program Director to ensure alignment of research activities and expenditures with project objectives.
• Maintains real-time data integrity and ensures its security at all times.
• Manages the inventory of basic laboratory and plant supplies.
• Designs and coordinates the integration of automated equipment and processes in collaboration with project personnel or vendors.
• Regularly provides project teams with verbal and written progress updates.
• Demonstrates efficiency and autonomy in tasks.
• Ensures sample handling and analysis adhere to EPA protocols.
• Routinely updates laboratory and plant CHPs as needed.
• Conducts regular QA/QC checks on process data and analytical results.
• Attends all relevant team/program meetings, conference calls, and project-related events.
• Assists in compiling data and information for technical papers and reports intended for peer-reviewed publications.
• Contributes to the technical development of project proposals.
• Drafts technical project reports and maintains project status documentation.
• Presents research findings at technical conferences and contributes to peer-reviewed journal publications.

Supervisory/Lead Role:

This position reports to the Critical Materials Program Director.

Physical Demands:

Requires physical abilities to perform laboratory research including operating a bench-scale and pilot-scale ALSX treatment systems.  Position may require standing for several hours at a time monitoring the operation of the ALSX plant; lifting of fluid-containing objects (up to 50 pounds); bending, moving 55-gallow sample drums; adjusting parameter meters, valves, sensors, etc.  Good hand-eye coordination, precision of movements, and attention to detail is required.  During extended operating runs, the applicant my be required to work on a rotating shift or alternative schedule.

Work Environment:

Work will be performed in the Rare Earth Extraction Facility on the WVU campus in Morgantown, WV and at the Rare Earth recovery pilot plant at Bismarck, WV.  Work will take place in standard laboratory environments including using computers and laboratory equipment with electrical connections.  Work will be performed with strong acids and solvents that emit odors and/or toxic fumes and will need to be performed in a controlled environment (e.g., vented hood).  Protective measures will be provided; however, incumbent will be expected to be knowledgeable of all safety regulations and requirements, up-to-date on safety training and certifications, and compliant with all procedures and protocols.

The following has been identified as a possible job exposure of this position requiring WVU Environmental Health and Safety medical monitoring:

1. Contacting hazardous chemicals - daily or weekly, using strong acids or caustics, fuel or tar products or cancer-causing chemicals.

• Bachelor's Degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, mineral processing, environmental engineering, or environmental science.
• A minimum of two (2) years of engineering or analytical chemistry experience in similar areas.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Knowledge and laboratory experience in mining, metallurgical research techniques or desire to gain knowledge.
• Knowledge of laboratory environment and appropriate procedures.
• Experience/Knowledge of rare earth element processing or desire to gain knowledge.
• Desire to learn or knowledge of basic mechanical skills.
• Safety management experience with handling/storing/disposal of listed or characteristic wastes.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to interpret analytical data.
• Good organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently with little to no direction.
• Ability to write and present scientific data.
• Skilled at identifying complex problems, assessing situations, and developing solutions.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a laboratory environment.
• Have basic mechanical abilities.
• Experience working under EHS protocols with strong acids and bases.

• Valid Driver's License
• Valid work visa, if applicable
• U.S. Citizen or permanent resident

The WVURC was created as a not-for-profit corporation in 1985 to support research (R1) at West Virginia University. We provide evaluation, development, patenting, management, and marketing services for inventions of the faculty, staff and students of the University.

The WVURC receives and administers funds awarded by external agencies for research and other activities and is responsible for helping protect intellectual property through patents, copyrights and licensing agreements for start-up companies based on University research.

Creating an inclusive, engaged, and dynamic environment is core to WVURC’s mission. We welcome candidates who can contribute a range of ideas, approaches and experiences.

West Virginia University Research Corporation is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. We value diversity among its employees and invites applications from all qualified applicants regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, nationality, genetics, disability, or Veteran status.  

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