What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chemical Analysis Lab - Coatings Technician position at Utah State University Space Dynamics Laboratory?
Job ID: 5802
Date Posted: January 5, 2026
Position Overview:
Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a Lab Technician to support various internal operations and programs within the Materials Process Engineering Group. This selected candidate will assist the Chemical Analysis Service Center manager with daily tasks including critical sample preparation, handling, and analysis. The ideal candidate is dependable, self-motivated, and able to work independently with minimal oversight in a research laboratory environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
*Salary Range
This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate's preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.
Why Join SDL?
*SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.
SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.
At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.
The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 7 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.
EOE including Disability and Vet
Date Posted: January 5, 2026
Position Overview:
Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a Lab Technician to support various internal operations and programs within the Materials Process Engineering Group. This selected candidate will assist the Chemical Analysis Service Center manager with daily tasks including critical sample preparation, handling, and analysis. The ideal candidate is dependable, self-motivated, and able to work independently with minimal oversight in a research laboratory environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Primary Duties:
- Supports Chemical Analysis Service Center operations by completing test requests from across SDL
- Works in small teams to perform wet chemistry tasks and sample analysis
- Performs meticulous surface preparation, masking, and other preparatory tasks to ensure optimal coating application and finishes
- Manages weekly work plans provided by the supervisor, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and providing progress updates
- Maintains chromate conversion equipment, tools, and supplies in compliance with safety and quality standards
- Secondary Technical Support Duties:
- Reads and interprets technical schematics, drawings, and diagrams as needed
- Collaborates with personnel and departments to provide technical support
- Performs special materials processes, including precision cleaning of sensitive components
- Assists with chemical etching and surface preparation processes
- Participates in sensitive thermal vacuum testing campaigns
Required Skills and Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or equivalent
- At least one semester of chemistry lab experience or equivalent industrial experience
- Ability to process data and generate test reports, traveler entries, calibration certifications, and equipment maintenance records
- Ability to perform meticulous surface preparation and masking
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
- Basic knowledge of technical support functions, including assembly and troubleshooting
- Ability to work effectively both independently and within a team environment
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Must be a US citizen, lawful permanent resident of the US, or other US person
Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
- Ability to read and interpret technical schematics, drawings, and diagrams
- Physical capability to perform tasks involving substantial use of arms, legs, and full body movement, including climbing, lifting (up to approximately 50 lbs.), balancing, walking, and material handling
- Ability to stand for extended periods
*Salary Range
- $40,500 - $69,500
- Salary commensurate based on education and relevant experience
This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate's preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.
Why Join SDL?
*SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.
SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.
At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.
The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 7 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.
For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.
EOE including Disability and Vet
Salary : $40,500 - $69,500