Analytical Chemistry Technician
5 days ago
Santa Monica
Job DescriptionJob Title: Analytical Chemistry Technician Job Description The Analytical Chemistry Technician supports laboratory operations by performing chemical analyses and wet chemistry techniques that contribute to the development of innovative solutions for crop protection. This role involves hands-on work with laboratory equipment and analytical instruments, careful documentation of results, and close collaboration with a small, motivated team in a fast-growing AgTech environment. Responsibilities • Perform routine chemical and analytical testing in support of laboratory projects and experiments., • Carry out wet chemistry procedures, including batching, sample preparation, and solution handling., • Accurately weigh samples and reagents using laboratory balances to prepare test materials and standards., • Use pipettes and other liquid-handling tools to measure and transfer solvents and samples with precision., • Handle and prepare various solvents safely and in accordance with laboratory protocols., • Operate analytical instruments as directed to support testing and analysis activities., • Prepare, label, and organize samples for analysis, ensuring traceability and proper storage., • Record all experimental procedures, observations, and results in an up-to-date laboratory notebook., • Enter, organize, and maintain test data using Excel and other basic computer tools., • Follow established laboratory procedures, safety guidelines, and quality standards at all times., • Collaborate with a cross-functional team, supporting not only the analytical team but also other laboratory activities as needed., • Contribute to a culture of continuous learning by taking on varied tasks and developing new technical skills.Essential Skills, • Hands-on laboratory experience, including at least 6 months of practical lab work., • Experience with basic laboratory techniques such as weighing, pipetting, and handling solvents., • Proficiency in wet chemistry methods, including batching, sample preparation, and analysis., • Foundational knowledge of analytical chemistry and general chemistry principles., • Ability to work with analytical instruments in a laboratory setting., • Basic familiarity with organic chemistry concepts., • Ability to maintain accurate and detailed laboratory notebooks., • Basic proficiency with Excel for data entry and simple data organization., • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written and verbal laboratory protocols., • Capability to work onsite full time and manage multiple tasks in a dynamic environment.Additional Skills & Qualifications, • Industry experience in a laboratory setting, preferably in chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, or environmental testing., • Experience in bug or animal laboratories, particularly in handling or studying insects, is highly desirable., • Experience with GC (Gas Chromatography) and HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) or similar analytical instrumentation is a plus., • Entry-level candidates with solid laboratory experience are welcome to apply., • Interest in agriculture, AgTech, or crop protection technologies., • Motivation to grow from a technician role into positions such as assistant scientist, associate scientist, and scientist over time., • Strong teamwork, communication, and collaboration skills in a close-knit environment., • Willingness to learn, take on diverse responsibilities, and “wear multiple hats” within the lab.Work Environment This role is 100% onsite with a typical schedule of 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with some flexibility as needed. You will work in a startup AgTech laboratory environment focused on using pheromones to protect crops, where innovation and experimentation are central to daily activities. The culture is close knit, team oriented, and highly collaborative, with colleagues who motivate and support each other’s development. The company offers significant growth potential and clear career paths, starting as a technician and progressing to assistant scientist, associate scientist, and scientist roles as skills and experience expand. You will have the opportunity to work across multiple functions, not only within the analytical team, gaining broad exposure to different aspects of the lab and the business. The environment emphasizes learning, professional growth, and the chance to contribute to pioneering work in agricultural technology. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Santa Monica, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $23.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision, • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital, • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available, • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents), • Short and long-term disability, • Health Spending Account (HSA), • Transportation benefits, • Employee Assistance Program About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email for other accommodation options. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.