Laboratory Technician

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN Location : Freeport, Texas Posted: Reports to : Research & Development Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly) About the Company: MOVA Metals is a global technology leader in the recovery of critical metals and innovator in renewable energy. Having serviced the oil refinery industry since 1973, MOVA is the world’s largest recycler of spent petroleum catalysts.

We use hydrometallurgical operations to produce the pure oxides of molybdenum and vanadium. These unique patented operations allow us the flexibility to optimize metal content in spent catalyst. Our processes deliver a sustainable alternative to landfilling and exporting of hazardous materials. We are the leading Verified Recycler and Reclamation Facility of spent catalyst globally.

The process recovers molybdenum and vanadium that are then reused in chemical and metallurgical applications by major catalyst producers, steel and battery manufacturers.

Position Summary

The Laboratory Technician will be responsible for the following duties but are not limited to: Monitor product quality to ensure compliance with standards and specifications. Prepare chemical solutions for products and processes following standardized formulas. Calibrate or verify calibration of equipment as defined in procedure for each instrument or test method.

Record results. Maintain, clean, and sterilize laboratory instruments and equipment. Prepare workstation for next day’s samples. Store samples that must be retained and properly dispose or recycle test samples each week or end of shift set. Communicate issues with test results and equipment to lab supervisor or other management staff and assist with resolution.

Report and request missing samples from production and warehouse as necessary. Prepare data and upload results to Aptean Ross (ERP System) on a daily basis as results are available. Receiving and successfully pass training for OSHA, LOTO, DOT, HAZMAT, NCCER, RCRA, Site-Specific Training and any other required certifications for the position.

Specific Lab Tests and Equipment: Grinding room – prepare solid samples and analyze for LOI, moisture, bulk density, sieve, grinding, carbon/sulfur. XRF – prepare samples for X-ray analysis (fusion method-prepare flux, matrix, balance weighing) Wastewater –pH samples, 001 auto-sampler, taking readings, obtaining samples, analyzing for pH, TSS, metals, NH3, TOC, etc.

Prepare samples for outside lab testing and compile results. Finished Products – MoO3, V2O5 and Ni Alloy – dissolve & analyze by ICP Process Samples – filter, pH, mV, dilute, analyze for molybdenum, vanadium, tungsten, & chlorides by ICP, analyze for NH3 using distillation & titration. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Associates Degree in Chemical Technology, or two years of on-the-job experience in a laboratory or the equivalent. Working knowledge of sample preparation, dilution and analyses for ICP, Titrations, pH, XRF, TOC and other lab equipment. Basic math and chemistry skills, including calculations related to units of measure, volume-to-weight conversions, understanding stoichiometry and routine lab calculations such as dilutions and solution preparation.

Excellent communication and organizational skills. Basic experience in analytical chemistry-based reporting, including clear and precise documentation of test results, data analysis, and interpretation in line with industry standards. Good working knowledge of MS Office applications. Ability to work well independently and in a team environment.

Strong commitment to safety. Innovative mindset and desire to see constant lab operations improvement. Working Conditions: Work is usually indoors in a lab environment; however, collection of information or samples will require periodic visits to the plant facility. Work that may be performed in a plant facility is outdoors in all weather conditions to include extreme heat, cold, wind and precipitation.

Work may require appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Regularly exposed to dust, noise, odors, chemicals and fumes. Appropriate PPE will be provided, and employees are required to wear designated PPE at all times. Rotating shift work is required for this position. Overtime, nights, weekends and holidays may be required per the established schedule or as needed to meet production goals.

Employees may be called upon to volunteer for call-out opportunities. Physical Requirements: Must be able to push, pull and lift a minimum of 20 pounds. Must be able to lift, pull and push materials and equipment to complete assigned job tasks. Must be able to stand, sit, walk, reach, bend, squat, kneel, and climb stairs/ladders for an entire shift.

Must be able to pass respirator fit test and background testing and drug testing. Must wear safety gear and required PPE. All interested candidates should apply at www.movametals.com . We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.