Analytical Lab Technician (Gcms+)

About Blue Ocean Barns

Blue Ocean Barns, Inc. (BOB) is a Delaware Public Benefit Corporation on a mission to solve the climate impact of cattle by working with farmers and food companies to commercialize and rapidly scale the production and use of our proprietary, algae-based livestock feed ingredient.  Originally launched in the heart of Silicon Valley, the company has since established operations on the Big Island of Hawaii and San Diego. We are a well-resourced, professionally managed, and rapidly growing company looking for diverse and exceptionally talented people who are motivated to make a meaningful impact on climate change.

The BOB San Diego R&D & Design Team is responsible for developing the analytical capabilities required to support the Company's near and long-term applied R&D plans.  Our facility includes a seedbank and nursery for our algae cultures, a wet lab, space for physical prototyping, and an Analytical Lab which is in the process of being equipped.  The cornerstone of our Analytical Lab is a GCMS (Thermo Fisher Trace 1310 / ISQ 7000), which is primarily used to measure the concentration of halogenated compounds in our algae.  The Analytical Lab Technician's first responsibility is the daily preparation of samples, operation and maintenance of the GCMS, as well as management, analysis, and quality assurance of the data it produces.  This person will be additionally responsible for the development of new analytical methods and techniques, as well as for operating current and future analytical equipment, including XRF, water activity, spectrophotometry, microscopy, and others.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties

• Adhere to, and develop as necessary, analytical methods and SOPs for all analytical equipment, including especially QA/QC for GC-MS analysis of organohalogen compounds
• With guidance from the Lab Manager, develop and manage a process flow and daily schedule for preparing and analyzing samples on the GC-MS
• Adhere to a robust data management system and develop processes for sharing, analyzing, and synthesizing data produced by analytical equipment
• Ensure rigorous analytical standards are maintained
• Perform routine maintenance and trouble-shooting of all analytical equipment
• Contribute to a clean, safe, and functional workspace that exceeds regulatory requirements and that facilitates use by team members
• Adhere to best practices with respect to documenting and protecting intellectual property

Experience & Abilities

• AS in Chemical Lab Technology with 3+ year experience in a QA/QC or experimental lab environment
• BS in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry or related science with 2-5 years of experience in a QA/QC or experimental lab environment
• Experience preparing samples and standards, using a GC-MS, analyzing VOCs, and translating the results to a useful manner
• Strong mechanical aptitude demonstrated through the ability to troubleshoot and maintain lab instrumentation
• Solid math and statistical analysis capabilities
• Computer software skills, including Chromeleon, database management, Excel, python, R, etc. 
• Knowledge of standardized methodologies (ASTM/UOP, ISO, etc.)
• Ability to work independently and to adapt to shifting priorities

Physical and Other Requirements

• Ability to work at least 40 hours per week; potentially including some weekends and holidays. Regular attendance and punctuality is essential to carrying out the duties of this position.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, primarily in an air conditioned indoor lab with concrete and occasionally wet floors
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds 
• Ability to perform fine manipulations with hands and fingers
• Ability to use math skills in performing duties
• Ability or willingness to learn to utilize laboratory equipment and work in a sterile environment
• Ability to learn and use various computer systems (for example: Excel, Google Docs, Airtable)
• Ability to work safely with and around hazardous chemicals

$60,000 - $75,000 a year

At Blue Ocean Barns, we believe benefits are an important part of our employees' overall compensation and well-being. We are pleased to offer a comprehensive array of valuable benefits to protect the health of our employees, their families and their way of life.

Our Benefits Currently Include:

  A competitive compensation package, including the opportunity to share in company ownership through our stock option plan

  Full medical, dental & vision coverage, covering 100% of insurance premiums for employees and 50% for dependents

  401(k) plan

  Voluntary benefits, including Flexible Spending Accounts, Life insurance, and more

  19+ days of PTO

  An opportunity to do truly meaningful work that makes a lasting impact

Employment Policy 

We are an equal opportunity employer, and we value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.