Production Technician - Sample Prep

EarthOptics•Emeryville, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Production Technician - Sample Prep will join our Emeryville, CA Lab team to impact our mission through individual contributor responsibilities. As a Production Technician on our Blending team at our Emeryville, CA lab, your primary responsibility will be operating our automated sample preparation systems (blenders) by loading soil samples into them and troubleshooting any errors you may encounter according to our standard operating procedures (SOPs). This role requires the ability to consistently follow standard operating procedures, adaptability in a fast-paced environment, and collaboration with coworkers to support sustainable and data-driven agricultural practices. Regardless of the role, our team embraces learning, craves collaboration, and is driven by a fast-paced environment. If you resonate with our values and goals, we encourage you to apply—even if you don't meet every requirement. You could be the perfect fit for this role or future opportunities.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.
Demonstrated ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to follow standard operating procedures and safety procedures while utilizing provided PPE.
Proficiency with basic computer/IT troubleshooting and competency with hand tools.
Knowledge of laboratory safety guidelines.
Fosters a respectful workplace by building professional relationships and collaborating positively with all team members.
Adapts to flexible working hours, with availability for occasional after-hours work.
Comfort working with large volumes of soil and soil slurry.
While performing duties of this job, you will be required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, stoop or kneel, talk and hear, and use fingers and hands.
Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
Specific vision abilities required include close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
This job will be performed in a Lab environment; dress is casual and Protective Personal Equipment is supplied as well as lab coats.
We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor or transfer visas at this time.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working in a soil processing lab, environmental lab, production lab, or similar high-throughput environment.
Prior experience working with environmental samples, especially soil samples.
Prior experience working in a fast-paced, start-up environment.

Responsibilities

Load soil samples (200-300 per day) into our automated sample preparation systems.
Receive and sort samples according to the analysis ordered.
Ensure production spaces are kept clean, organized and compliant with safety protocols.
Maintain high throughput expectations.
Operate the waste slurry pipeline, including sump pumps (50+lbs) and a flocculation system.
Adhere to safety guidelines and regulatory requirements.