Laboratory Research Technician

About Empower

Empower Battery Technology is a growing battery-materials startup developing advanced anode materials for high-performance rechargeable batteries. We are building a practical, data-driven laboratory program connecting materials synthesis, quality control, and battery development. Team members work closely with company leadership and can contribute across a broad range of technical activities as the company grows.

Position Summary

Empower is seeking an entry-level Laboratory Research Technician to support day-to-day research and development activities at our laboratory in Columbus, OH. The technician will follow established procedures to prepare and process materials, prepare samples for characterization, perform basic quality-control data workup, and maintain accurate laboratory records. The role is well suited to an entry-level candidate with 0-2 years of relevant laboratory experience who enjoys hands-on laboratory work, learns quickly, and is comfortable contributing in a startup environment.

Essential Responsibilities

• Perform routine laboratory activities supporting battery-material synthesis and processing, including material weighing, solution preparation, mixing, drying, thermal processing, powder handling, milling, sieving, cleaning, labeling, and related steps under approved procedures.
• Operate laboratory equipment and conduct production processes per standard operating procedures.
• Prepare samples for quality-control and external characterization, including FTIR, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and particle-size analysis.
• Perform basic data review, calculations, quality checks, and plotting using Microsoft Excel; flag incomplete, inconsistent, or unexpected results for technical review.
• Maintain complete and accurate batch records, sample manifests, material and lot tracking, instrument-submission records, and other laboratory documentation.
• Assist with electrode-preparation and battery-development activities as needed, following established SOPs and safety requirements.
• Maintain clean and orderly work areas; support inventory tracking, consumable management, routine equipment checks, and laboratory housekeeping.
• Follow company safety practices, chemical-hygiene requirements, SOPs, and quality procedures; promptly report safety concerns, equipment issues, or procedural deviations.
• Collaborate directly with Empower technical leadership and contribute to improvements in laboratory organization, reproducibility, and data quality.

Required Qualifications

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering, ceramic engineering, or a related field; equivalent laboratory education and experience will be considered.
• Hands-on laboratory experience through coursework, undergraduate research, an internship, employment, or a comparable setting.
• Ability to follow written procedures carefully, maintain accurate records, and complete repetitive technical work consistently.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including data entry, formulas, and preparation of simple plots.
• Willingness to learn unfamiliar laboratory methods and work across varied technical tasks.
• Dependability, attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to work independently after training.
• Ability to work fully on-site at Empower’s laboratory for approximately 20 hours per week.
• Authorization to work in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with materials synthesis, powder processing, wet-chemistry methods, thermal processing, or sample preparation.
• Exposure to battery materials, electrode preparation, electrochemical testing, or rechargeable-battery research.
• Experience preparing samples for FTIR, XRD, SEM, particle-size analysis, or related characterization methods.
• Familiarity with Python or other scientific data-processing tools.

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

• Perform laboratory work while standing for approximately 60% of the workday.
• Occasionally lift and move laboratory materials or equipment weighing up to 30 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Wear required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, laboratory gloves, and a lab coat.
• Work around chemicals, powders, heated equipment, and mechanical processing equipment under established controls and training.

Employment Terms and Growth Opportunity

This is a part-time, hourly, non-exempt position averaging approximately 20 hours per week. Employment with Empower is at-will and may be terminated by either party at any time. The position is a six-month term, with potential continuation and increased responsibility as company needs evolve. Flexible weekday scheduling may be available. The position does not currently include health insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, retirement benefits, or equity. Professional development will include hands-on training and direct work with company leadership.

Compensation

Compensation is expected to be $22-$29 per hour, depending on relevant education, laboratory experience, and technical skills.

How to Apply

Submit your application below with your resume and a brief note describing your relevant laboratory experience, availability, and interest in the role. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Accommodations

Empower Battery Technology is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.