Chemist, Laboratory Operations & R&D

About Lilac Solutions, Inc. Lilac exists to solve one problem: lithium supply. By engineering scalable lithium extraction technology, we help industries produce lithium faster, cheaper, and cleaner. Our ion exchange technology is rooted in scientific precision and commercial know-how, making lithium supply a non-issue for global electrification. Our materials, engineering, and approach uniquely position us to design and develop commercial projects across various lithium sources. We help lithium producers rapidly and responsibly scale production from brine resources with versatile, cost-effective, and dynamic technology solutions.  Lilac is supported by the largest players from the mining and processing industry, as well as significant investment funds. Lilac investors include BMW, SK, Mitsubishi, Sumitomo, Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Mercuria, Lower Carbon Capital, and MIT's The Engine. About the role We are seeking a hands-on Chemist to support both laboratory operations and applied R&D efforts. This role blends technical chemistry work with operational ownership—ensuring our labs run efficiently, data quality meets ISO standards, and pilot facilities are successfully deployed. You will play a key role in maintaining high-quality analytical performance while supporting brine treatment research and scaling lab capabilities across multiple sites. Why This Role Matters: This role is critical to ensuring reliable data, efficient lab operations, and successful deployment of our technology at pilot scale. You’ll directly impact how quickly and effectively we can scale our processes from lab to field. Responsibilities Laboratory Operations & Quality Maintain and troubleshoot analytical instrumentation (e.g., ICP-OES, NMR, SEM, TGA, XRD, DLS, UV Vis, wet chemistry systems)Ensure compliance with ISO 17025 quality systems, including documentation and calibrationManage laboratory quality records, SOPs, and method documentationMonitor data quality and support continuous improvement of laboratory processes Procurement & Lab Infrastructure Own procurement of lab consumables, chemicals, and equipmentManage vendor relationships and track inventory to ensure uninterrupted lab operationsSupport cost optimization and standardization across lab systems Pilot Lab Installation & Scale-Up Lead installation, setup, and commissioning of laboratory spaces at pilot facilitiesTravel to pilot sites to oversee lab buildout, equipment installation, and initial operationDevelop standardized lab setup protocols for rapid deployment R&D & Technical Execution Design and execute bench-scale brine treatment experiments with guidance from the technical divisionSupport method development, optimization, and validation for analytical techniquesAnalyze and interpret experimental data to inform process developmentCollaborate cross-functionally with process engineers and R&D teams Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field2+ years of experience in an analytical or R&D laboratoryExperience working in an ISO 17025 (or similar quality-controlled) environmentHands-on experience with analytical instrumentation and wet chemistry techniquesStrong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple prioritiesHighly proactive, with a strong problem-solving and troubleshooting mindsetComfortable balancing hands-on lab work with operational responsibilitiesAbility and willingness to travel and work at domestic and international pilot projectsDetail-oriented with a commitment to high-quality data Demonstrated communication and teamwork abilities  Preferred Qualifications Experience with method development and validationExperience with brine, water treatment, or inorganic/analytical chemistry systemsExperience supporting pilot plants or scaling lab operationsFamiliarity with ICP-OES, ICP-MS, ion chromatography, NMR, DLS, or similar techniques Benefits Base Salary $85,000 - $118,000 anuallyStock options Discretionary Bonuses Health, dental, and vision insurance  Short-term and Long-term disability insurance  401k with pre- and post-tax investing options  Flexible spendings account/Health savings account  Group and term life insurance  Flexible paid time off policy  Paid sick leave  Eight weeks of paid parental leave  Commuter benefits  Employee assistance program  Monthly phone stipend  The salary range listed reflects our good-faith estimate of the compensation for this role at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be determined by a number of factors, including but not limited to the candidate's relevant skills, experience, and geographic location. A Note to Third-Party Recruiters: At this time, we are not accepting unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters or staffing agencies. Resumes sent without prior arrangement will be considered the property of Lilac Solutions, and no fees will be paid if we hire a candidate whose resume was submitted unsolicited. EEO Statement  Lilac Solutions is committed to providing a professional work environment free from discrimination and harassment, including discrimination and harassment based on a protected category, and an environment free from retaliation for participating in any protected activity.  Lilac Solutions is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Locations: Oakland, CA