Laboratory Assistant

About ZymoChem

ZymoChem is breakthrough science for a fossil-free future.  We accelerate the transition to a real-zero economy by developing bio-based materials for everyday products.  Our platform is powered by proprietary carbon conserving (C2) microbes that convert renewable feedstocks into high-value materials while radically minimizing CO2 loss during the production phase.  

ZymoChem recently closed a $21 million Series A round of fundraising to support the launch of our first high-performance material and to advance our first partnered product to commercial scale.  In addition to this funding from premier domestic & international venture capital firms, we are also supported by existing revenues from commercial partnerships with world-leading companies and funding from multiple government awards, including a 2023 $4MM grant from the Department of Energy. 

With a plan to double our team in 2024-25, we seek candidates who are motivated by science & innovation and have a passion to push the boundaries of materials performance.  We are collaborative, multidisciplinary, and relentlessly committed to creating a chemicals, materials, and products industry in tune with the 21st century. 

Our Mission: To catalyze a real-zero economy with drop-in, bio-based solutions.

Our Vision: To live in a world in which the goods we depend on every day are bio-manufactured from 100% renewable materials and designed for a sustainable economy - without compromise.

Our Values: Lead with Compassion, Aspire Collectively, Evolve Continuously, Innovate with Impact, Scale Sustainably

Position Summary

We’re seeking a Full-time Laboratory Assistant to join our growing team. This position will be part of the Lab Operations team and will be playing a key role within the R&D group by maintaining glassware and autoclave services for the R&D teams.  In this role, you will assist with inventory management, waste stream management, and purchasing operations.  This position will also assist in creating and improving current processes.  

The ideal candidate will have a strong passion for doing things the right way and would like to pursue a career in operations.  Some wet lab experience is strongly desired. This role will allow someone to grow and expand their skills with future opportunities. 

Responsibilities

• Perform routine inspections and checks on glasses and autoclave equipment.
• Clean, sterilize, and organize all laboratory glassware to maintain high standards of functionality and hygiene.
• Support building efficiencies for the team’s lab work and creating a safe and clean work environment. 
• Maintain inventory of reagents and consumables needed for media preparation and experiments. 
• Maintain equipment and chemical inventory.
• Responsible for the preparation of liquid and solid media required for experiments.
• Assist with EHS, facilities, shipping, receiving, and waste management.
• Monitor, track, and complete batch productions and other record-keeping requirements.
• Willing to learn mechanical repair and instrument calibration to support the research team.  
• Reviewing and writing guidelines and additional opportunities to cross-train and back up lab ops team members as needed.  
• Other duties may be assigned.

Qualifications 

• Associate's Degree in Biology, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Process Engineering, Material Science, or a related discipline is preferred.
• Minimum two years of experience in the biotech industry.  A start-up experience is preferred. 
• Previous experience managing R&D labs support activities such as media preparation, inventory, and waste management. 
• Strong aptitude for work with supplies and equipment and rigorous attention to detail and quality - cleaning, organizing, sorting, stacking, etc. 
• Excellent customer service skills, effective with multitasking, and an adept ability to improvise work plans while maintaining efficiency
• Must be able to move 50 pounds and move around the lab facility between multiple locations

Culture and Benefits

ZymoChem offers full-time employees a competitive base salary, a comprehensive benefits package, and a company culture that’s collaborative, multidisciplinary, and committed to a big vision for positively impacting the world. We seek candidates who are motivated by our mission and equally passionate about pushing the boundaries to build a sustainable future. Located in the vibrant East Bay area of San Francisco, our headquarters are housed at Gate 510, a state-of-the-art facility with many in-house and nearby amenities.

Full-time opportunities at ZymoChem come with: 

• Competitive hourly range of $26 to $34 an hour depending on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package includes company stock options, 401(k) retirement plan (includes a corporate match), medical, dental, and vision healthcare coverage, and life and long-term disability insurance.
• Additional benefits include FSA, commuter, and supplemental life insurance.
• Flexible time off policy with 18 days Paid Time Off (PTO) per year and 10 paid company holidays per year.
• Relocation assistance may be agreed upon as well.

If this opportunity sounds exciting and aligns with your career aspirations, we want to hear from you!  Please send your resume/CV and a cover letter through our website job posting.

Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. ZymoChem may agree to sponsor an individual for an employment visa immediately or in the future if there is a shortage of individuals with particular skills for this job.  In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.