Laboratory Technical Support Specialist, Subsurface - Rock Mechanics and Physics

Chevron • Richmond, CA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Subsurface organization is now accepting applications for the position of Rock Physics Laboratory Engineer, a fully lab‑based, hands-on role focused on learning and applying existing laboratory techniques while also developing new experimental methods and capabilities. The Rock Mechanics and Rock Physics (RMRP) team at Chevron is an experimental group dedicated to laboratory testing of geomaterials. The team’s work centers on elastic, inelastic, and mechanical rock physics properties relevant to 3D/4D seismic interpretation, well logging, and geomechanics across exploration and production activities. RMRP supports a diverse portfolio of projects, including Conventional and Unconventional reservoirs and New Energies (CCUS, Geothermal), collaborating closely with other Chevron teams, universities, and national laboratories. The position will be based in Richmond, CA, with a planned relocation to Houston, TX in approximately three years.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (minimum) or Master’s degree in Geophysics, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related STEM field with laboratory emphasis.
• At least 2 years of hands‑on experience in a rock physics, materials testing, mechanical testing, or comparable laboratory environment.
• Solid understanding of elastic wave propagation and fundamentals of digital signal processing.
• Knowledge of boundary conditions in rock mechanics experiments, including fluid pressure systems, pressure vessels, and axial stress control.
• Familiarity with displacement and strain measurement systems (e.g., LVDTs, strain gauges).
• Demonstrated interest in troubleshooting laboratory hardware, electronics, and instrumentation.
• Commitment to developing a long‑term, laboratory‑focused career.

Nice To Haves

• Experience designing and fabricating experimental equipment, including 3D CAD modeling, prototyping, and 3D printing.
• Basic understanding of CNC machining for hardware fabrication.
• Skills in designing or modifying ultrasonic sensors, including phased arrays or tomographic systems.
• Broader programming capabilities for integrating new hardware into data acquisition workflows.
• Experience with automated test systems, data collection tools, or laboratory control software.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments to measure elastic, inelastic, and mechanical rock properties, including velocities, anisotropy, elastic moduli, attenuation, and dispersion.
• Develop full operational understanding of laboratory equipment, including calibration, troubleshooting, maintenance, and safe operation.
• Prepare rock samples, design and configure experiments, acquire high‑quality data, and perform technical analysis and reporting.
• Investigate how rock properties vary under different conditions (stress, temperature, strain, frequency, porosity, and fluid saturation).
• Utilize X‑ray microtomography techniques to study rock deformation at microscopic scales.
• Implement minor software modifications and support automation workflows using programming languages such as BASIC, C++, MATLAB, Python, or Visual Basic.
• Maintain high safety standards and ensure compliance with laboratory procedures.

Benefits

• Chevron offers competitive compensation and benefits programs which includes, but is not limited to, variable pay, health care coverage, retirement plan, protection coverage, time off and leave programs, training and development opportunities and a range of allowances connected to specific work situations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level