Company Description
Trillium Renewable Chemicals is building a more sustainable future through chemistry. We have raised Seed, Series A, and Series B financing rounds and have been featured in Bloomberg, Chemical & Engineering News, won multiple Department of Energy Awards, and were named a C&EN Top 10 Startup and a finalist for the S&P Global Excellence in Chemicals Award. Our patented technology converts renewable feedstocks like glycerol to acrylonitrile, a monomer for acrylic fibers, carbon fibers, and other valuable raw materials like ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) plastic. We have built a demonstration scale plant deemed “Falcon” and a new state-of-the-art catalyst development laboratory (“Falcon’s Nest”). Our facilities are located at INEOS Nitriles in Port Lavaca, Texas. We are seeking a hands-on Research Technician to support catalyst development, pilot-scale operations, and safe laboratory execution.
Key Responsibilities
- Set up, configure, and modify laboratory and pilot-scale equipment (e.g., ovens, mixers, extruders, tubing, reactors).
- Operate bench and pilot-scale equipment, including catalyst reactors, ovens, and associated systems.
- Support catalyst development experiments by executing defined test plans and documenting results.
- Collect, label, and manage samples from pilot reactor systems; perform basic analytical testing as needed.
- Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory and pilot equipment to ensure reliable operation.
- Build, repair, and improve experimental setups, including mechanical and process systems.
- Maintain accurate records of equipment maintenance, calibrations, and experimental data.
- Ensure safe operation of equipment and adherence to all safety protocols and procedures.
- Collaborate closely with engineers and scientists to execute experiments and improve processes.
- Respond to changing project needs with flexibility while maintaining high standards of data quality and safety.
Qualifications
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a technical field or equivalent hands-on experience in an industrial setting.
- 5+ years of experience in a laboratory, pilot plant, or industrial setting (chemical industry preferred).
- Strong mechanical aptitude and experience working with equipment setup, repair, or modification.
- Experience operating and maintaining laboratory or pilot-scale equipment.
- Commitment to safety and experience working with hazardous materials and processes.
- Ability to troubleshoot equipment and solve practical, hands-on problems.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills.
- Eligibility to obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC).
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform physical tasks for extended periods.
- Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to work with tools and equipment requiring manual dexterity.
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including respirators where necessary.
Location and Travel
The job will be based out of the INEOS Nitriles site in Port Lavaca, Texas. Some local travel may be required to pick up parts and supplies.
Salary
- $40 - $55 per hour depending on experience
