BerQ RNG builds and develops renewable natural gas projects in addition to buying and selling renewable natural gas. BerQ RNG is structured to contribute positively to the environment by using biogas that is currently flared into the atmosphere. Throughout North America, thousands of locations are flaring biogas because it is not pure enough or economical enough to use. We consider this a waste of resources and aim to eliminate this practice in North America. We have developed a business model that can use these resources economically and, as such, can earn money for our investors while cleaning up the environment. For more information on BerQ RNG, please visit our website at www.berqrng.com.
About the Job
BerQ RNG is looking for a Lab Technician for its dairy manure digester biogas to renewable natural gas (RNG) facility referred to as the Platte River Biogas facility located in LaSalle, Colorado. The Lab Technician will be responsible for conducting laboratory tests and analyses to support the efficient operation and optimization of the plant. The successful candidate will focus on monitoring feedstock quality, digester health, biogas production efficiency, and ensuring compliance with environmental and operational standards, while working closely with plant operators, engineers, management and manure feedstock suppliers to maintain a stable, productive, and environmentally compliant biogas-to-RNG production process.
Key Tasks & Responsibilities:
Collect and prepare feedstock, digester sludge, effluent, and biogas samples for analysis.
Perform routine laboratory tests, including Total Solids (TS), Volatile Solids (VS), pH, alkalinity, ammonia, volatile fatty acids (VFA), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and other parameters critical to anaerobic digestion.
Conduct biogas analysis, including methane content, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and other gas components.
Accurately record test results, maintain laboratory logs, feedstock trucking scale records, and analyze data to assess digester performance and stability.
Identify trends, issues, or potential problems in the digestion process based on test results.
Provide clear and concise reports to plant management and operators with recommendations for corrective actions if necessary.
Provide manure feedstock targets on a daily basis to the farms and monitor feedstock offloading.
Monitor feedstock quality and composition to ensure consistency and identify any contaminants or inhibitors that could affect digester performance.
Support the optimization of the anaerobic digestion process by analyzing data and working with the operations team to adjust feed rates, temperature, and other process parameters.
Assist in developing and refining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for lab testing and process control.
Maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring it is clean, calibrated, and functioning properly.
Troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on laboratory instruments, as needed, or coordinate with vendors for more extensive repairs and calibration services.
Follow all safety procedures and protocols in the laboratory to maintain a safe working environment
Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, including proper handling, storage, and disposal of samples and chemicals.
Assist in preparing compliance reports for regulatory agencies, as needed.
Work closely with plant operators, engineers, and management to share findings and implement process improvements.
Participate in plant meetings to discuss lab findings and their impact on plant operations.
Support ongoing research and development initiatives to improve biogas production, increase yield, and enhance digester efficiency.
Manage the inventory of laboratory supplies, including chemicals, reagents, and consumables, ensuring adequate stock levels.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, or a related field. An associated degree or college diploma with relevant experience may be considered.
1-3 years of experience working in a laboratory setting, preferably in a wastewater treatment plant, anaerobic digestion facility, or similar industrial environment.
Proficiency in laboratory techniques, including wet chemistry, gas analysis, and solids testing.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Attention to detail with the ability to accurately record and interpret data.
Ability to use lab equipment such as pH meters, gas analyzers, spectrophotometers, and other relevant instruments.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
Comfortable working in an industrial environment, including exposure to odors, noise, and varying temperatures.
Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and perform tasks that require manual dexterity.
Willingness to work in both lab and field settings (e.g., collecting samples from the plant).
Must be willing to work onsite.
In addition to a collaborative and supportive work environment, Berq RNG offers:
Competitive salary.
Annual performance incentive bonus opportunity.
Comprehensive Medical and dental health coverage for you and your family.
401k Retirement Plan with company match.
Paid time off and holidays.
A culture that values teamwork, collaboration, and opportunity for growth and development.
Berq RNG is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to promoting a work environment that embraces diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect. Berq RNG provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to race, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, or other legally protected classification in accordance with applicable Federal, state, and local laws.
Applicants must have legal authorization to work in the US with no restrictions.
How to Apply:
Please send your resume and cover letter to hr@berqrng.com.
We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.
Unsolicited Assistance
We do not accept unsolicited assistance from headhunters or recruitment firms for our job openings. All resumes and profiles submitted by search firms to any employee at BerQ RNG in any form without a valid signed search agreement in place for the specific position, approved by BerQ RNG's Human Resources department will be deemed the sole property of BerQ RNG. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by BerQ RNG because of the unsolicited referral.