Research Operations Specialist (TEMP)

The Opportunity The University of Central Florida invites applications for a Research Operations Specialist supporting research and development activities focused on low‑carbon methanol production from fugitive methane resources. This position will be based at M2X Energy Inc. (Rockledge, Florida), where the Research Operations Specialist will oversee laboratory operations, chemical safety systems, and experimental infrastructure supporting pilot‑scale gas‑to‑methanol technologies. The Research Operations Specialist will work closely with researchers, engineers, and industry partners to ensure safe, efficient, and well‑documented laboratory and shop operations that enable process development and field‑deployable system testing. Responsibilities Manage chemical inventory and ensure compliance with safety standards for handling, storage, labeling, and documentation of all materials. Assist with hazardous waste management, including compliant storage and coordination with licensed disposal vendors. Manage compressed gas cylinder logistics, including receiving, storage, securing, labeling, regulator compatibility checks, and coordination of cylinder exchanges and supplier communications. Support fabrication, assembly, modification, and maintenance of experimental systems in a chemical engineering shop environment, including piping, fittings, pumps, and pilot‑scale setups. Maintain accurate documentation systems, including SOPs, inventory records, and safety documentation. Support onboarding and training of UCF research staff and interns in laboratory safety, chemical handling, equipment use, and shop practices. Coordinate with engineers and researchers to ensure laboratory readiness for experimental campaigns and data collection activities. Maintain a strong culture of safety, compliance, organization, and continuous improvement across laboratory and shop operations. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma and at least three years of experience in chemical laboratory and engineering environments or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat. 112.219(6). Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting or coordinating laboratory operations in chemical, process, or engineering environments. Strong knowledge of chemical safety practices, hazardous waste management, and regulatory compliance (OSHA, EPA standards). Experience with compressed gas cylinder systems and laboratory gas handling infrastructure. Familiarity with laboratory inventory systems and procurement processes. Familiarity with engineering drawings (PFDs, P&IDs) and lab/shop integration workflows is a plus. Strong organizational and documentation skills (SOPs, lab logs, inventory tracking systems). Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary environment involving researchers, engineers, and external partners. Strong communication skills and ability to coordinate multiple technical workflows simultaneously. Special Instructions to Applicants All applicants must be authorized to work for any U.S. employer. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position, and the university cannot accommodate H‑1B transfers or employment‑based visa processing for individuals currently sponsored by another employer. Compensation The anticipated hourly range for this position is $22.00 to $26.00. The final rate will be determined based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and internal equity considerations. Employment Requirements Unless explicitly stated on the job posting, it is UCF’s expectation that an employee of UCF will reside in Florida as of the date the employment begins. Pursuant to Florida State Statute 1010.35, prior to offering employment to certain individuals in research‑related positions, UCF is required to conduct additional screening. Applicants subject to additional screening include any citizen of a foreign country who is not a permanent resident of the U.S., or who is a citizen or permanent resident but is affiliated with or has had at least one year of education, employment, or training in China, Cuba, Iran, Russia, North Korea, Syria, or Venezuela. The additional screening requirements only apply to research‑related positions, including, but not limited to, faculty, graduate positions, individuals compensated by research grants or contract funds, postdoctoral positions, undergraduate positions, visiting assistant professors, and visiting research associates. Position Details Department: Office of Research – Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) – OPS Hours of Work: Full time Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Type of Appointment: Fixed Term Hourly Rate: $22.00 to Negotiable Job Posting End Date: 07-06-2026 Benefits Eligibility: State Benefits eligibility for OPS employees are subject to criteria established by the State of Florida. The state’s benefits administrator, People First, determines eligibility and coordinates enrollment. If this position becomes eligible for state benefits the employee will be notified directly by People First. OPS positions are not entitled to paid time off. Equal Opportunity Employment The University of Central Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. Additional Statements UCF is proud to be a smoke‑free campus and an E‑Verify employer. Printed or written accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call View phone number on click.appcast.io or email View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of Central Florida