Divisions of Locus Fermentation Solutions

Title:

Senior Technologist

Company:

Locus Bio-Energy, Ingredients, Mining

Status:

Exempt

Reports To:

Technology Manager

Who are we:

Locus Fermentation Solutions is a USA-based company delivering bio-enhanced specialty chemicals at industrial scale. Through precision fermentation and integrated chemistry, we produce glycolipid biosurfactants designed to improve performance across oil and gas, mining, agriculture, and industrial applications. Our biomanufacturing platform connects strain selection, fermentation, and formulation design to create functional molecules that behave predictably in real-world systems—bridging the gap between biology and performance chemistry.

What you’ll be doing:

We are seeking an experienced Senior Technologist to join our laboratory team and support advanced research, product development, and technical operations. In this role, you will independently perform complex laboratory tests, troubleshoot and optimize advanced instruments, and maintain high standards of documentation, data integrity, and laboratory safety. You will support scientists by generating reliable, high‑quality data and by ensuring that laboratory equipment remains in excellent working condition.

The Senior Technologist also plays an important leadership role by mentoring junior staff, developing SOPs, and contributing to workflow improvements that strengthen laboratory performance. This position is ideal for technical professionals with substantial hands‑on laboratory experience who are ready to increase their leadership, independence, and technical influence.

The primary focus of this role will be the evaluation of surfactants for applications across energy, mining, and specialty ingredients.

Location: The Woodlands, TX.

Essential Job Functions Related to Surfactants:

Prepare surfactant samples, solutions, and formulations according to established test methods and protocols.
Conduct physical and chemical testing of surfactants, including but not limited to:
- Surface tension measurements
- Interfacial tension testing
- Foam generation and stability analysis
- Wetting and spreading evaluations
- Emulsion stability testing
- Viscosity and rheology measurements
- pH, density, and conductivity analysis
Perform application-specific performance testing according to established test methods and protocols.
Support formulation development by evaluating new surfactants, blends, and raw materials.
Maintain chemical and sample inventory.

Key Responsibilities:

Laboratory Testing and Equipment Operation (85%)

Perform complex laboratory tests requiring advanced technical knowledge.
Set up, operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
Independently operate, troubleshoot, and optimize scientific instruments.
Prepare advanced and multi‑step samples and materials required for testing.
Identify opportunities to improve testing workflows and reliability.
Create SOPs and contribute feedback for improvements when needed.

Data Management and Communication (5%)

Maintain accurate lab records- including lab notebooks, electronic files, and equipment logs- according to laboratory and organizational standards.
Assist with the upkeep of calibration logs, maintenance records, and equipment usage documentation.
Record test data, observations, and results clearly and promptly within project systems.
Communicate results, trends, and irregularities to scientists and project teams in a timely manner.

Safety and Compliance (5%)

Follow chemical hygiene, PPE, and HSE requirements.
Support audit readiness and good laboratory housekeeping.
Ensure data traceability and support audit readiness.

Laboratory Leadership, Mentorship and Collaboration (5%)

Provide informal leadership and technical support to junior team members.
Assist in training new staff in equipment operation, documentation expectations, safety practices, and testing procedures.
Contribute to continuous improvement of lab workflows, safety practices, and operational standards.
Support lab organization, supply planning, and equipment readiness.
Support data integrity and internal knowledge transfer among lab staff.

Scope & Autonomy

Significant impact on lab operations, testing quality, and instrument reliability
High independence; expected to resolve complex issues and guide others

Qualifications & Requirements

BS Engineering or Chemistry required with 5+ years laboratory experience in industrial, research or academic environments; or High School Diploma with 10+ years of related experience
Foundation in instrument operation and troubleshooting
Excellent documentation, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
Commitment to safety, data integrity, and operational excellence.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 6-8 hours per shift)
Frequent use of hands and fingers for fine motor tasks including pipetting, sample preparation, equipment operation, and data entry.
Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull materials weighing up to 25 pounds
Visual acuity (near vision and color differentiation) to read instruments, labels, and test results.
Ability to work with a computer and laboratory instrumentation for extended periods
Occasional bending, stooping, reaching, and kneeling
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, lab coat, eye protection, face shield, and respirator where required.
Ability to work in environments with chemicals, biological materials, odors, and varying noise levels.
Capability to respond to alarms, equipment signals, and safety notification

Work Environment:

Work is performed primarily in a laboratory setting and may include exposure to chemicals, biological materials, and laboratory reagents.
Regular use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required in designated areas
May involve work near laboratory instrumentation, moving mechanical parts, or production equipment
Exposure to noise levels, odors, fumes, airborne particles, or vibrations typical of laboratory or manufacturing environments
Temperature conditions may vary, including climate-controlled areas, refrigerated environments, or proximity to heat-generating equipment
Work may involve handling hazardous materials in accordance with established safety procedures and regulatory standards
Requires strict adherence to company safety policies, quality systems, and standard operating procedures including chemical hygiene procedures and laboratory housekeeping practices.
Frequent interaction with team members across quality, production, engineering, and administrative functions
Work is primarily performed on-site; remote work is not applicable

What’s in it for you:

Competitive Salary
Medical/Dental/Vison Benefits
401(k) Savings Plan with Company Match
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
Paid Holidays
Volunteer Hours
Annual allowance of Floating Holidays
Continuing Education Reimbursement Policy

Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site

Senior Technologist, Surfactants