Formulations Technician

Job Title: Formulations Technician

Job Description

The Formulations Technician supports lead formulation chemists by preparing, optimizing, and documenting paste formulations in a laboratory environment. This role focuses on executing standard operating procedures, troubleshooting basic process issues, and ensuring accurate recordkeeping to maintain high levels of quality and process control. The technician collaborates closely with applications and synthesis teams, contributing to materials development and testing activities while working hands-on at the bench.

Responsibilities

• Assist lead formulation chemists with daily bench work and laboratory activities.
• Formulate pastes according to established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and defined specifications.
• Troubleshoot basic process issues, identify potential root causes, and escalate more complex problems appropriately.
• Perform optimization studies on formulations and processes to improve performance, consistency, or efficiency.
• Support applications and synthesis teams by preparing and supplying paste formulations as needed.
• Record experimental data, process parameters, and results accurately and consistently.
• Present results and progress updates on a weekly basis to the broader technical team.
• Maintain, organize, and update formulation records, logs, and documentation in a clear and traceable manner.
• Follow good manufacturing practice (GMP) and laboratory safety protocols while handling materials, tools, and equipment.
• Use basic computer tools to log process data, prepare simple reports, and support data analysis activities.
• Handle fine tools and small assemblies carefully to ensure product and process quality.
• Manage time effectively to complete assigned tasks, experiments, and documentation within required timelines.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 1+ years of industry experience in a related field such as chemistry, materials, or laboratory-based roles.
• Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in a related field, such as chemistry or materials science.
• Experience in formulation, chemistry, or materials-related laboratory work.
• Understanding of good manufacturing practice (GMP) principles and their application in a lab or production setting.
• Materials testing background and experience working with metals, quality control (QC), or laboratory environments.
• Basic computer skills, including the ability to use Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to log process data accurately and consistently in electronic or paper-based systems.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and follow instructions from lead chemists and supervisors.
• Strong communication skills to share findings, escalate issues, and present weekly results.
• Hands-on approach with strong time management skills to handle multiple tasks and priorities.
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on process control, documentation, and maintaining quality standards.
• Ability to stand, reach, use fine tools, and occasionally lift small weights or handle small assemblies as part of daily work.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Familiarity with statistical analysis software such as Minitab is a plus.
• Previous experience in materials testing, metals handling, or QC environments is highly beneficial.
• Experience supporting cross-functional teams, such as applications or synthesis groups.
• Comfort working with structured SOPs and continuous improvement or optimization activities.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain organized records and follow documentation standards.

Work Environment

The Formulations Technician works primarily in a laboratory and process environment focused on paste formulation and materials testing. The role involves daily bench work using fine tools, laboratory equipment, and process instrumentation while following established SOPs and GMP principles. The position requires standing, reaching, and handling small assemblies or materials for extended periods, as well as occasionally lifting small weights. The technician uses computer tools such as Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint to log process data, prepare basic reports, and support analysis. Work is highly collaborative, with regular interaction with lead formulation chemists, applications teams, and synthesis teams, and includes weekly result presentations and ongoing communication to support shared project goals.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of San Jose, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $34.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in San Jose,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 27, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

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

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

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.