Location: Ithaca, NY
Company: REEgen
Position Type: Full-time (Post-Bac or Post-Master’s)

About REEgen

REEgen is an Ithaca-based startup developing sustainable, low-impact processes for critical mineral recovery. Our chemistry-driven bioleaching platform enables environmentally friendly extraction of rare earth elements (REEs) from industrial waste streams. We’re expanding our team and looking for motivated scientists eager to contribute to a rapidly growing clean-tech company.

Position Overview

We are seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented Lab Technician with a strong chemistry background to support the development and optimization of REEgen’s bioleaching technologies. This role is ideal for recent bachelor’s or master’s graduates seeking industry experience in an innovative R&D setting.

You will work closely with our technical team to run experiments, prepare reagents, analyze samples, maintain equipment, and support core laboratory operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform wet chemistry assays, solution preparation, titrations, and sample processing

• Support chemistry-focused bioleaching experiments and downstream REE recovery steps

• Conduct analytical measurements (e.g., ICP-MS sample prep, spectrophotometry, pH/ORP monitoring)

• Maintain accurate and organized experimental records and follow SOPs

• Prepare reagents, buffers, and standards to support ongoing R&D

• Manage routine lab upkeep: stock supplies, clean glassware, maintain equipment

• Contribute to workflow improvements for efficiency, safety, and data quality

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field

• Demonstrated hands-on experience in a chemistry laboratory (academic or industry)

• Strong foundation in general chemistry and solution preparation

• Ability to follow protocols, troubleshoot experiments, and document data clearly

• Highly organized, proactive, and comfortable working in a fast-paced startup environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience preparing samples for trace-metal analysis (e.g., acid digestion, dilutions)

• Familiarity with ICP instrumentation workflows

• Prior work with industrial, metallurgical, or environmental samples

• Interest in sustainability, circular materials, or critical mineral technologies

What We Offer

• Competitive salary ($26-$34 per hour depending on experience) and benefits 

• Opportunities for growth in an early-stage startup

• Collaborative, mission-driven environment

• Hands-on exposure to innovative chemistry applied to real-world materials challenges

How to Apply:

Please send a cover letter email with CV attached to hr@reegen.tech with "REEgen position" as the subject. To help us in our selection process, please include in your email the answer to the following question:

• What microbe (bacteria or fungi) do you find interesting, and why?

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status and any other protected class under state or federal law.