Research Operations Specialist (TEMP)

University of Central Florida

5d • $22 - $26 • Onsite

About The Position

The University of Central Florida is seeking a Research Operations Specialist to support research and development activities focused on low-carbon methanol production from fugitive methane resources. This position will be based at M2X Energy Inc. in Rockledge, Florida. The specialist will oversee laboratory operations, chemical safety systems, and experimental infrastructure for pilot-scale gas-to-methanol technologies. The role involves close collaboration with researchers, engineers, and industry partners to ensure safe, efficient, and well-documented laboratory and shop operations that facilitate process development and field-deployable system testing.

Requirements

• High school diploma and at least three years of experience in chemical laboratory and engineering environments or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat. 112.219(6).
• Must be authorized to work for any U.S. employer.
• Must reside in Florida as of the date employment begins.

Nice To Haves

• 1-3 years of experience in laboratory, manufacturing, quality, research, or technical operations.
• Experience with chemical inventory, hazardous waste, laboratory procurement, and compressed gas cylinders.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience with laboratory or process equipment, including piping, fittings, pumps, or similar systems.
• Experience maintaining laboratory documentation, including SOPs, lab logs, and inventory records; familiarity with engineering drawings (PFDs or P&IDs) is a plus.
• Strong organizational, communication, and coordination skills with the ability to work effectively with researchers, engineers, students, and external partners.

Responsibilities

• Manage chemical inventory and ensure compliance with safety standards for handling, storage, labeling, and documentation of all materials.
• Assist with hazardous waste management, including compliant storage and coordination with licensed disposal vendors.
• Order, receive, organize, and restock laboratory supplies, equipment, and consumable materials.
• Manage compressed gas cylinder logistics, including receiving, storage, securing, labeling, regulator compatibility checks, and coordination of cylinder exchanges and supplier communications.
• Support fabrication, assembly, modification, and maintenance of experimental systems in a chemical engineering shop environment, including piping, fittings, pumps, and pilot-scale setups.
• Maintain accurate documentation systems, including SOPs, inventory records, and safety documentation.
• Support onboarding and training of UCF research staff and interns in laboratory safety, chemical handling, equipment use, and shop practices.
• Maintain a strong culture of safety, compliance, organization, and continuous improvement across laboratory and shop operations.

Benefits

• State Benefits eligibility for OPS employees are subject to criteria established by the State of Florida. The state’s benefits administrator, People First, determines eligibility and coordinates enrollment. If this position becomes eligible for state benefits the employee will be notified directly by People First.
• OPS positions are not entitled to paid time off.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED