Lab Technician

Mariana Minerals • San Francisco, CA

12d • Onsite

About The Position

Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We’re reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making. The Role Mariana Minerals is looking for a highly motivated analytical technician to join our San Francisco lab team. You will support the development and operation of first-of-its-kind refining processes for critical minerals by providing high-quality analytical data to guide process optimization and control. This role is highly hands-on and will work closely with Operations Technicians, Engineers, and Data teams to ensure timely, accurate, and actionable chemical analysis of process streams, intermediates, and final products. You will play a critical role in bridging laboratory analytics with plant operations, helping ensure processes are robust, efficient, and ready for commercial scale-up.

Requirements

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Materials Science, or a related technical field
• Hands-on experience operating ICP, XRF, or similar analytical instrumentation
• Strong understanding of inorganic chemistry, trace element analysis, and matrix effects
• Experience working in minerals processing, metallurgy, chemicals, specialty materials, or similar industrial environments
• Familiarity with QA/QC protocols, calibration curves, standards preparation, and data validation
• Ability to troubleshoot instrumentation and perform routine maintenance
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, startup environment with evolving priorities
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data integrity
• Ability to stand for extended periods

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting pilot plant or production operations is a plus

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples for analysis using techniques such as digestion, dilution, and/or filtration
• Perform elemental and compositional analysis of solid and liquid samples using ICP, NMR, XRF, Titrator, or similar analytical techniques
• Maintain and calibrate analytical instruments, ensuring proper performance, accuracy, and repeatability
• Develop and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) for sample preparation and analytical workflows
• Support method development and validation for new instruments, materials, and process streams
• Document analytical results in laboratory information systems and maintain clear experimental records
• Ensure safe handling and disposal of chemicals, acids, standards, and waste streams in compliance with safety protocols
• Maintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, and inventory of consumables and standards

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree