Western Research Institute (WRI), a leading research and technology development company located in Laramie, Wyoming, seeks an organized, detail-oriented and responsive individual to join the Asphalt & Petroleum Technologies Business Unit.

Brief Description of Duties:

Candidate will be required to perform proper cataloguing, preserving, and shipping of samples, mixing and pouring of hot asphalt, high shear mixing of hot asphalt and other blending, loading reactors, using a fluidized sand bath, use high temperature and high pressure equipment, lift reactors up to 50 lbs, cleaning of reactors and other equipment, working with pumps, performing distillations, performing filtrations, solvent removal with a rotary evaporator, working with liquid nitrogen and dry ice, perform organic synthesis, operate other analytical testing and mechanical testing equipment. Maintenance and troubleshooting of experimental apparatuses and laboratory equipment is required as necessary. Responsible for recording observations, maintaining a well-organized laboratory notebook, data analysis and reporting, and cleaning. A strong chemistry and analytical aptitude, and ability to routinely work with flammable solvents, is necessary. Primary analytical duties consist of running thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry on a wide range of materials for a variety of projects.

Under the direction of the project manager or designee, the technician will perform experiments, sample testing and assist in data analysis for reporting requirements. Will also participate with other team members in assessing solutions to experimental designs and testing issues.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, chemistry or closely related discipline. Laboratory research and working with high temperature experiments is preferred. Exceptional candidates with an associate degree and relevant lab experience may also be considered. Strong verbal and written communication skills with fluency in Word and Excel are necessary. Candidate must work well in a team culture, be willing to work with a variety of toxic and flammable solvents, easily lift 50 pounds, and wear personal protective equipment (gloves and safety glasses).

Starting Salary Range: $20 to $22 per hour and will be determined based on experience.

Submit resume and cover letter to Michelle D. Holmes, Human Resources Manager at mholmes1@uwyo.edu.

Position is open until filled.