Laboratory Technician

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 Lilac is seeking a Laboratory Technician to support daily laboratory operations by maintaining a clean and compliant laboratory environment, managing chemical inventory, and performing routine analytical testing on process streams. This role plays a key part in ensuring data quality, equipment reliability, and compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements. The technician will routinely operate and maintain analytical instrumentation, including ICP-OES, and contribute to continuous improvement of laboratory practices. What you'll do Laboratory Operations & Housekeeping Clean, dry, and properly store laboratory glassware and equipment according to established SOPsMaintain laboratory cleanliness and organization in compliance with safety and quality standardsManage laboratory waste streams, including proper labeling, storage, and disposal Chemical Inventory & Safety Maintain accurate chemical inventory records, including receiving, labeling, and tracking reagents and standardsMonitor chemical stock levels and communicate reorder needsEnsure chemicals are stored in accordance with compatibility, safety, and regulatory requirementsFollow all laboratory safety protocols and actively participate in safety training Analytical Testing & Sample Handling Perform routine chemical analyses on process and quality-control samples following validated methodsPrepare samples, reagents, standards, and calibration solutions with attention to traceability and accuracyAccurately record data in laboratory notebooks and controlled datasheetsReview data for completeness, trends, and basic quality indicators Instrument Operation & Maintenance Operate and support routine analysis using ICP-OES, including startup, calibration, analysis, and shutdownPerform routine instrument maintenance, performance checks, and basic troubleshootingAssist with instrument qualification, method verification, and ongoing performance monitoring Quality System & Compliance (ISO/IEC 17025) Follow documented SOPs, test methods, and quality proceduresMaintain controlled records in accordance with ISO 17025 requirementsSupport internal audits, corrective actions, and continuous improvement activitiesReport deviations, nonconformances, and equipment issues promptly Qualifications Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific disciplineHands-on laboratory experience (academic or industrial)Familiarity with wet chemistry techniques and basic analytical instrumentationStrong attention to detail and ability to follow written proceduresBasic computer skills (Excel, data entry systems)Frequently stand for up to 8 hours per dayPerform repetitive manual laboratory tasksFrequently lift and carry lab materials and chemical containers up to 25 lbs, occasionally lift up to 50lbsPass a respirator fit test periodically, and wear required PPE, including gloves, safety glasses, lab coat and respirator. Preferred Qualifications Experience working in an ISO 17025–accredited laboratoryDirect experience operating ICP-OES or similar elemental analysis techniquesExperience with process stream analysis or industrial laboratory environmentsUnderstanding of quality control concepts (calibration, blanks, standards, QA checks) Benefits & Compensation $33 - $44/hour, eligible for overtime Stock options  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 (some locations)Lunches provided 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