Laboratory Technician - Process Development

Kunin Technologies•Chattanooga, TN

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Kunin Technologies is developing advanced separation technologies to recover critical minerals from overlooked resources. The company is designing and commissioning a group 14 metal chlorination plant for an industrial partner. The process converts metal-bearing feeds through chlorination, purification, and hydrolysis into electronic-grade metal product, with Kunin’s proprietary ion-exchange media recovering metal from dilute process liquors. The Laboratory Technician will keep bench and mini-pilot process development runs operating in Chattanooga. The work includes setting up and operating chlorination reactors, distillation columns, hydrolysis vessels, filters, dryers, calciners, and ion-exchange modules; preparing reagents; safely handling chlorine and concentrated hydrochloric acid; collecting and logging samples; performing routine ICP-OES and wet-chemistry measurements; and maintaining equipment, inventory, and records. From March through May 2027, the technician will work shifts during continuous mini-pilot campaigns. The role is part of the research team and works with process chemists, a distillation process engineer, and an analytical chemist. The expected project milestone is safe completion of both mini-pilot campaigns with complete sample and operating records by May 7, 2027.

Requirements

Associate's or bachelor's degree in chemistry, chemical technology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
At least one year of experience in a chemical, metallurgical, or pilot-plant laboratory.
Mechanical aptitude, including comfort assembling glass and PFA systems, pumps, heaters, and instrumentation.
Careful record keeping and comfort using spreadsheets and laboratory data systems.
Ability to work in a fast-paced and demanding atmosphere.
Team-oriented approach and ownership of shared equipment, laboratory safety, and organization.

Nice To Haves

Experience with corrosive or hazardous gases.

Responsibilities

Set up, operate, and turn around bench reactors, laboratory distillation columns, hydrolysis and filtration equipment, dryers, calciners, and ion-exchange modules.
Prepare and safely handle chlorine, concentrated hydrochloric acid, moisture-sensitive chlorides, and nitrogen-blanketed systems; check scrubbers and personal protective equipment.
Collect samples on schedule, prepare samples, perform ICP-OES and wet-chemistry measurements, and log samples.
Operate the continuous mini-pilot during campaigns, including start-up, steady-state logging, and shutdown.
Maintain equipment, manage reagent and consumable inventory, handle waste, and maintain laboratory records.
Work shifts during continuous mini-pilot campaigns and raise problems early.