Laboratory Technician

About HydroGraph
HydroGraph is a hyper-growth advanced materials company scaling pristine, high-performance graphene via its patented Hyperion detonation technology. With more than 70 active commercial projects, a growing global footprint, and industry-leading material quality (99.8% pure graphene), HydroGraph is building the next generation of engineered materials for coatings, composites, and energy storage.
About the Role
We are seeking a motivated and hands-on R&D Laboratory Technician to join our next-generation graphene research team in Austin, Texas. This team is focused on inventing new graphene materials — developing and refining the synthesis routes, precursors, process conditions and chemical reaction that produce novel graphene powders with tuneable morphology, functionalization and performance.
This is a core experimental support role. You will set up and operate laboratory synthesis equipment, run repeated trials to standard operating procedures (SOPs), collect and prepare research samples, capture data accurately, and keep the lab running safely and efficiently. You will work side by side with R&D scientists and our Advanced Manufacturing team as new materials move from bench discovery toward scale-up.
The role would suit someone with an academic background in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline who is looking to build industrial R&D experience in advanced materials. Full training on our synthesis platforms and analytical methods will be provided.
Key Responsibilities
Experimental Support
Set up, configure, and prepare laboratory equipment and instruments for planned experiments, including reactors, gas handling systems, furnaces, filtration, and drying/collection apparatus
Execute repeated synthesis trials to prepare research samples in strict accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and experimental run sheets
Monitor experiments in progress, track process conditions, and record observations in real time
Collect, label, split, and archive synthesized powder samples for downstream characterization
Carry out routine sample preparation for analytical testing and support basic in-house characterization such as density measurement, Raman Spectroscopy, TGA, FTIR, and BET etc.
Flag anomalies, off-spec results, and equipment irregularities promptly to the responsible scientist
Support equipment commissioning, calibration checks, and routine performance verification
Collaboration and Communication
Work closely with R&D scientists on day-to-day experimental activities and with the Advanced Manufacturing team on scale-up-relevant trials
Assist with research sample preparation, packaging, documentation, and shipment to internal teams, external laboratories, and project partners
Communicate results, observations, and issues clearly to the R&D team in daily stand-ups and project meetings
Contribute practical observations from repeated hands-on runs that help refine SOPs and experimental design
Coordinate with colleagues to sequence lab and equipment time efficiently across concurrent projects
Data and Documentation
Record experimental data accurately and legibly, and maintain complete, contemporaneous laboratory notebooks
Enter experimental and analytical data into internal databases, spreadsheets, and electronic record systems
Prepare basic reports, charts, and summaries of results for R&D team review and discussion
Maintain sample inventories and traceability between synthesis runs, sample IDs, and characterization results
Follow good documentation practice and support the team in capturing information needed for internal reviews and intellectual property records
Laboratory Maintenance and Operations
Order and manage lab supplies, consumables, chemicals, and gases; track stock levels and lead times to avoid experimental downtime
Source and purchase parts, fittings, and hardware needed for experiments from local suppliers, including running errands as required
Perform routine preventive maintenance and basic troubleshooting on lab equipment; coordinate service visits and repairs with vendors
Assist with minor lab builds and modifications, such as assembling fittings, tubing, and simple fixtures for experimental setups
Maintain equipment logs, maintenance records, and chemical inventories
Safety and Compliance
Follow all safety protocols and correct handling procedures for chemicals, materials, gases, and equipment
Use required personal protective equipment and work in accordance with risk assessments, SDS requirements, and site safety rules
Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free workspace
Segregate, label, and dispose of waste materials properly in line with applicable regulations and company procedures
Participate in safety training, toolbox talks, housekeeping audits, and incident/near-miss reporting
Support the team in keeping risk assessments and SOPs current as new materials and processes are introduced
Candidate Requirements
Essential
BS degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline (an Associate degree with relevant hands-on laboratory experience will also be considered)
Basic laboratory experience gained through university coursework or projects, internships, co-ops, or industry
Good understanding of laboratory safety and general good laboratory practice
Strong attention to detail and accuracy in following written procedures and recording data
Strong organizational and time management skills; able to manage repeated trials and multiple parallel tasks
Good communication and teamwork abilities
Comfortable working in a hands-on laboratory environment, including with powders, chemicals, and process equipment
Basic computer skills including Excel and accurate data entry
Legally authorized to work in the United States and able to work on-site in Austin, Texas
Able to perform the physical aspects of the role, including standing for extended periods, lifting materials and gas cylinders with appropriate assistance, and wearing required PPE including respiratory protection where applicable
Desirable
6–24 months of industrial or academic laboratory experience in materials synthesis, powder processing, or chemical process operations
Exposure to nanomaterials, carbon materials, or graphene, and awareness of safe nanopowder handling practices
Experience with gas handling, pressure systems, reactors, furnaces, or vacuum equipment
Familiarity with materials characterization techniques such as particle size analysis, BET surface area, TGA, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, or SEM — including sample preparation for these methods
Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort with hand tools, fittings, and simple equipment assembly
Experience with lab

Employment type
Full-Time

Work arrangement
No