Pilot Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RTI International is an independent, scientific research institute dedicated to improving the human condition. Our vision is to address the world's most critical problems with technical and science-based solutions in pursuit of a better future. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach—one that integrates expertise across social, statistical, data, and laboratory sciences, engineering, and other technical disciplines to solve the world’s most challenging problems.
We believe in the promise of science and technical solutions, and we push ourselves every day to deliver on that promise for the good of people, communities, and businesses in the US and around the world. If you are looking for the opportunity to make a real difference, RTI is the place for you.

Join a hands-on team advancing next-generation sustainable energy technologies. As a Chemical Pilot Plant Technician, you’ll work at the intersection of research and real-world application—operating and troubleshooting pilot-scale systems that convert biomass into fuels, chemicals, and other valuable products.

This is a highly hands-on role that combines laboratory work with pilot plant operations, supporting the development and scale-up of innovative process technologies.

Lab Sciences & Engineering (LS&E) provides comprehensive laboratory sciences and engineering services to advance technology development and innovation. From early discovery through real-world application, we focus on improving human well-being and protecting the environment.

Our teams support:

• Advancing technologies from discovery to commercialization
• Delivering cutting-edge analytical and laboratory services
• Developing solutions that improve environmental quality and human health

Within LS&E, the Sustainable Energy Solutions group focuses on developing and scaling technologies for biomass conversion, including pyrolysis and gasification processes. Our work supports the production of biofuels and bio-derived chemicals through pilot-scale research, testing, and commercialization efforts.

** This role operates within a 24/7 pilot plant environment and requires flexibility to support continuous operations. Team members may work 12-hour shifts across both daytime and overnight hours, including weekends and holidays as needed. Shift assignments are based on business needs and may rotate over time.

Candidates should be comfortable working extended shifts and adapting to a schedule that ensures round-the-clock coverage.

• Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot pilot-scale systems including reactors, pumps, compressors, and separation equipment
• Support experimental campaigns by identifying process deviations and communicating issues to engineering staff
• Install, calibrate, and maintain analytical instruments such as gas chromatographs and gas analyzers
• Record and analyze operational data, preparing clear summaries, charts, and reports
• Assist in developing and improving standard operating procedures (SOPs)

• Collect, label, and prepare samples from pilot plant operations
• Ensure proper handling and preparation in accordance with established laboratory protocols

• Perform routine maintenance to ensure safe and reliable equipment operation
• Troubleshoot mechanical and instrumentation issues and coordinate repairs with engineering teams
• Assist with system upgrades and modifications as needed

• Follow all safety protocols, including proper use of PPE and handling of hazardous materials
• Maintain compliance with safety standards and immediately report any incidents or concerns
• Contribute to a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement

Candidates should have a High School Diploma with at least 10 years of relevant hands-on experience, or an Associate’s Degree with a minimum of 5 years of experience in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and practical experience. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in chemical or process operations, along with experience working with laboratory or pilot-scale equipment in a hands-on environment.

• Experience in pilot plant or industrial process environments
• Familiarity with gas chromatography or process analytical instrumentation
• Background in chemical processing, energy systems, or related fields

• Strong understanding of basic chemical process operations
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability
• Experience working with laboratory or process equipment
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and document deviations
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Effective communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)

For San Francisco, CA USA Job Postings Only: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Further information is available here.

RTI accepts applications to our job openings from candidates with criminal histories or conviction records in accordance with all applicable laws, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

For Applicants in Massachusetts Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

The anticipated pay range for this role is listed below. Our pay ranges represent national averages and may vary by location as a geographic differential may be applied to some locations within the United States. RTI considers multiple factors when making an offer including, for example: established salary range, internal budget, business needs, and education and years of work experience possessed by the applicant. Further, salary is merely one element to our offer.

At RTI, we demonstrate our commitment to rewarding individual and team achievement through a total rewards package. This package includes (among other things) a competitive base salary, a generous paid time off policy, merit based annual increases, bonus opportunities and a robust recognition program. Other benefits include a competitive range of insurance plans (including health, dental, life, and short-term and long-term disability), access to a retirement savings program such as a 401(k) plan, paid parental leave for all parents, financial assistance with adoption expenses or infertility treatments, financial reimbursement for education and developmental opportunities, an employee assistance program, and numerous other offerings to support a healthy work-life balance.

Candidates should have a High School Diploma with at least 10 years of relevant hands-on experience, or an Associate’s Degree with a minimum of 5 years of experience in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and practical experience. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in chemical or process operations, along with experience working with laboratory or pilot-scale equipment in a hands-on environment.

• Experience in pilot plant or industrial process environments
• Familiarity with gas chromatography or process analytical instrumentation
• Background in chemical processing, energy systems, or related fields

• Strong understanding of basic chemical process operations
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability
• Experience working with laboratory or process equipment
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and document deviations
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Effective communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)