Lead Technician I

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Lead Technician I
Job Description

The Lead Technician I oversees and participates in custom chemical processing operations to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production. This role leads day-to-day activities in an industrial pilot plant environment, including process setup, operation, sampling, testing, and cleanup, while guiding and training personnel on equipment performance and data accuracy. The position also supports continuous improvement by reviewing safety information, maintaining documentation, and communicating with internal and external stakeholders to meet project objectives and timelines.

Responsibilities

• Participate in and supervise custom process operations and cleanup to ensure successful completion of custom processing projects and the safety of all personnel.
• Review safety data sheets (SDS) and process safety information for all materials and processes before running any operation.
• Lead and review custom processing protocols to ensure safe operation and accurate collection of process data.
• Train and coach personnel on achieving optimal machinery performance and obtaining accurate and precise data for reporting.
• Pull and test production samples according to established protocols to ensure product quality and conformance to specifications.
• Inspect incoming and outgoing materials and supplies to maintain a high level of quality throughout the process.
• Coordinate with the Shipping and Receiving department to organize and schedule product shipments in a timely manner.
• Conduct regular inventory checks to ensure all supplies and materials required for production are available and accounted for.
• Provide performance feedback on team members to leadership to support performance evaluations and development.
• Work and communicate regularly with internal and external customers to understand priorities, respond to identified needs, and adjust work accordingly.
• Write clear and accurate technical project reports for customers, summarizing process conditions, results, and observations.
• Maintain electronic files for financial and quality audits, including Certificates of Analysis, drum lists, technical reports, and related documentation.
• Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot mechanical process equipment, including mixing and blending systems, in an industrial chemical processing environment.
• Use forklifts, pallet jacks, and a freight elevator to move materials and finished products between levels and throughout the facility.
• Load materials on upper levels, initiate processing, and then move to lower levels to test, sample, and palletize final product.
• Apply mechanical aptitude to perform basic repairs, adjustments, and troubleshooting on equipment, including pneumatic, electrical, and mechanical components.
• Use math skills to perform measurements, calculations, and data recording related to process conditions and product quality.
• Follow all safety procedures, including the use of required personal protective equipment such as face masks for chemical and steam processing.
• Work flexibly on both 1st and 2nd shifts as needed based on project timelines and operational requirements.
• Lift materials up to 55 pounds and remain standing for approximately 80% of the shift while performing production and supervisory tasks.

• At least 3 years of experience working with mechanical process equipment in an industrial or similar environment.
• At least 3 years of leadership experience, preferably in a pilot plant or process development setting.
• At least 3 years of experience in problem solving within a production or technical environment.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple tasks and manage changing priorities effectively.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, including experience with repair, troubleshooting, and general mechanical systems.
• Hands-on experience with chemical processing, including mixing and blending operations.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints or technical diagrams related to equipment and processes.
• Experience working with pneumatic and electrical components in a production environment.
• Proficiency with tools and equipment used in industrial processing and material handling.
• Proficiency in computer software, including Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe tools, for documentation and reporting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for training personnel, communicating with customers, and writing technical reports.
• Ability to lift up to 55 pounds safely and stand for approximately 80% of the shift.
• Ability to operate a forklift and other material handling equipment, or willingness to become certified as required.
• Comfort working in an industrial chemical processing environment with heat, steam, and required respiratory protection.
• Flexibility to work both 1st shift (approximately 6:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m.) and 2nd shift (approximately 2:00 p.m.–10:30 p.m.) Monday through Friday, based on operational needs.

• Experience working in a pilot plant environment supporting process development or custom processing projects.
• Forklift or pallet jack experience in a production or warehouse environment.
• Experience handling hazardous materials in compliance with safety procedures and regulations.
• Experience with testing and sampling of chemical or process materials according to defined protocols.
• Background in material handling, including staging, moving, and palletizing products.
• Familiarity with maintaining electronic records for audits, such as Certificates of Analysis, drum lists, and technical documentation.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with process development engineers and cross-functional teams.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality in both documentation and product output.

You will join a growing organization that invests in long-term career development and promotes from within, offering clear opportunities for advancement. The culture emphasizes an employee-friendly, team-oriented environment where titles matter less than ideas, and collaboration is encouraged from day one. You will benefit from comprehensive medical and dental coverage with a significant employer contribution, a matching 401(k), and annual profit-sharing bonuses. The time-off package includes 11 paid holidays plus a floating holiday, generous paid vacation starting in the first year, and a dedicated annual wellness day off with reimbursement for wellness activities. The company supports continued learning through tuition reimbursement for education related to current or future roles, and offers a child tuition savings program with a dollar-for-dollar match up to a set annual amount. You will also enjoy regular company outings, a supportive atmosphere focused on safety and well-being, and a workplace where your contributions are recognized and valued.

Work Environment

This role is based in an industrial chemical processing and pilot plant environment that operates primarily on weekday shifts. The standard 2nd shift runs from approximately 2:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and the 1st shift runs from approximately 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The position requires flexibility to work on either shift depending on project timelines, with any shift changes communicated in advance when possible. The facility includes both upper and lower levels: materials are loaded and processes are started on the upper level, while testing, sampling, and palletizing of final product occur on the lower level. Movement between floors involves the use of a freight elevator, forklifts, and pallet jacks. The environment is an industrial chemical processing setting that can become very hot during the summer, though it remains comfortable during colder seasons. Due to chemical and steam processing, appropriate face masks and ventilation are provided and required as part of normal operations. The work involves frequent standing, lifting, and operating mechanical process equipment, as well as using tools to perform basic repairs and troubleshooting. Employees receive company-provided uniforms with name identification and have access to locker rooms. Steel toe boot reimbursement is available after a short period, and employees may wear earbuds to listen to music when it is safe and permitted by site policies. The overall environment combines hands-on mechanical and process work with close collaboration with process development engineers and other technical staff.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of MINNEAPOLIS, MN.

The pay range for this position is $58240.00 - $72800.00/yr.

- Growing company that offers excellent long-term growth and promote from within opportunities. - Promote employee friendly and team culture and atmosphere - Excellent medical/dental benefits (company paid 75% of medical and dental benefits) - 11 Paid Holidays and 1 floating holiday (Holidays paid day one while on contract) - Tuition reimbursement - has to be related to with current position or another position that be reasonably attainable within the company - Generous PTO/Vacation (2 weeks year one but can earn more with time) - Annually Wellness Day off with up to $100 reimbursement. - Employees will have to complete a yearly physical to be able to take a Wellness Day off. This day is paid by Bepex. This can be used for any activities you choose, it can be a spa day, fishing, golfing, etc - Child-Tuition Savings account, Bepex contribution of a dollar for dollar match up to $2,500 per year. - Job Titles don't matter type environment, love ideas and collaboration from every employee day one or 20 – - Matching 401 K - Profit Sharing bonuses Annually - Annual company outing - Company provides uniforms for all employees with their names on them - They have Steel Toe Boot reimbursement after 30 days - Can wear ear bud and listen to music

This is a fully onsite position in MINNEAPOLIS,MN.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 19, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
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.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.