Job Title: Lab Technician III

Location: Ames, Iowa

Type: W2 Contract (Long Term)

Work Setup: On-site 

Industry: Oil & Gas

Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, 401(k)

Job Summary

Airswift is searching for a Research Support Technician to assist one of our major clients in experimental work related to renewable feedstocks and fuels. This role involves operating bench-scale equipment, conducting laboratory experiments, and supporting pilot plant operations under the guidance of the Team Lead.
Experimental Services and/or Research Support Engineers. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with small-scale process equipment and a strong commitment to safety and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities Safely operate bench-scale equipment and perform laboratory activities such as blending, filtration, reactions, and distillations. Conduct analytical testing and handle equipment operating at elevated temperatures and pressures. Assemble, operate, and maintain experimental systems at the Ames Technology Center. Adhere to lab process safety and operational excellence programs, including Control of Work. Maintain independence and accountability in conducting experiments while meeting multiple deadlines. Handle hazardous materials (flammable or corrosive liquids) with appropriate PPE. Follow written SOPs to support development, improvement, and scale-up of manufacturing processes. Configure laboratory systems and equipment for experimentation. Maintain a safe, organized, and clean laboratory environment. Assist in troubleshooting and improving laboratory equipment and processes. Communicate progress of projects and experiments accurately and timely. Basic / Required Qualifications A.S., A.A.S., or other 2-year degree in renewable energy technology, process technology, industrial maintenance, HVAC, industrial technology, advanced manufacturing technology, or similar. 2–4 years of relevant work experience. Strong safety record and work ethic (safety-sensitive position). Ability to follow processes and procedures implicitly. Ability to lift 5-gallon containers (approx. 45 lbs). Comfortable standing and working for long periods in a lab environment. Mechanical aptitude and experience with common hand tools (torque wrench, ratchet wrenches, handsaw, electric drill). Effective oral and written communication skills. Practical experience with Excel (including formulas and cell references). Working knowledge of Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. Preferred Qualifications B.S. degree in chemical, mechanical, industrial, or biosystems engineering. Experience with biofuels and/or renewable feedstocks (e.g., fats & oils). Familiarity with process engineering fundamentals (PFDs, heat/energy balances, P&IDs). Experience with lab-scale process instrumentation and equipment (pressure transmitters, thermocouples, pumps, mixers, heat trace, process control, compression tube fittings). Experience with process control and automation software (Rockwell Studio, FactoryTalk View Studio). Experience assembling glassware apparatus and conducting experiments using glassware.