Chemical Lab Technician

At Giraffe Bio, we're advancing mineral processing by bringing the tools of biotechnology and AI into mining. Our team develops biomolecules and bioprocesses that improve metal recovery, lower energy use, and reduce environmental impact. This is a unique opportunity to join a growing startup that blends molecular biology, chemistry, and mineral science to build the next generation of extraction technologies.

We're looking for a Chemical Laboratory Technician to join our chemistry team. This is a bench-focused analytical role. You'll prepare and characterize reagents and biomolecular formulations, run analytical determinations, and support the synthesis and QC workflows that underpin our collector development pipeline.

We're looking for a trained chemist who takes pride in rigorous technique and clean data. The ideal candidate holds a degree in Chemistry (Chemical BSc, Licenciado en Quimica), is comfortable moving between synthesis, analytical instrumentation, and documentation, and sees this as a long-term bench position within a growing R&D team.

Synthesis & Formulation

• Prepare and formulate chemical reagents and biomolecule-based collector candidates per established protocols.
• Support small/mid-scale synthesis, purification, and formulation adjustments under guidance from senior chemists.
• Maintain reaction records and batch documentation with full traceability.

Analytical Chemistry

• Perform titrations, gravimetric and volumetric determinations, and standard wet chemistry analyses.
• Operate analytical instrumentation (e.g., UV-Vis, HPLC, FTIR, or similar) for compound characterization and QC.
• Prepare analytical standards, blanks, and duplicates following QA/QC protocols.
• Support method development and troubleshooting under senior staff supervision.

General Lab Operations

• Prepare reagents, standard solutions, and buffers with accurate weighing and dilution.
• Calibrate and maintain pH meters, analytical balances, micropipettes, and lab instrumentation.
• Maintain accurate records in lab notebooks and inventory systems.
• Manage consumables stock; assist with purchasing and supplier communication.
• Follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements; contribute to a culture of safety.

REQUIRED

• Completed degree in Chemistry (Licenciatura/Bachelor's or equivalent). Active coursework or unfinished thesis are not considered at this time.
• At least one year of hands-on laboratory experience, academic or industrial.
• Solid grounding in analytical/organic chemistry technique.
• Strong attention to detail and consistent documentation habits.
• Organized, reliable, and able to manage repetitive tasks with precision.
• Working English for reading technical protocols and instrument documentation.

NICE TO HAVE

• Hands-on exposure to HPLC, UV-Vis, FTIR, or other analytical instrumentation.
• Prior experience in synthesis, formulation, or reagent development.
• Familiarity with SOPs, GLP, or similar quality frameworks.
• Interest in biotechnology or mineral processing applications.

• Growth & mentorship: structured training from our senior chemistry team from day one.
• Real ownership: core lab functions that directly support cutting-edge collector R&D.
• Competitive pay: compensation aligned with your experience level.
• Startup upside: room to grow as the company and its mining projects scale.

Note: if you move forward in the process, we'll ask for 2–3 professional references (people who've worked with you directly). No need to send them now, just have them in mind.