Lab Operations Technician

About Atomic Semi

Atomic Semi is building a small, fast semiconductor fab.

It’s already possible to build this with today’s technology and a few simplifications. We’ll build the tools ourselves so we can quickly iterate and improve.

We’re building a small team of exceptional, hands-on engineers to make this happen. Mechanical, electrical, hardware, computer, and process. We’ll own the stack from atoms to architecture. Our team is optimistic about the future and we want to continue pushing the limits of technology.

Smaller is better. Faster is better. Building it ourselves is better.

We believe our team and lab can build anything. We’ve set up 3D printers, a wide array of microscopes, e-beam writers, general fabrication equipment - and whatever is missing, we’ll just invent along the way.

Atomic was founded by Sam Zeloof and Jim Keller. Sam is best known for making chips in his garage, and Jim has been a leader in the semiconductor industry for the past 40 years.

About the team

The Lab Operations Technician is a part of the overall Process Team that sits at the heart of our in-house device development, driving the design of each new generation of tools. This is unlike any role at a traditional foundry—we simultaneously develop recipes, apply novel materials, test and characterize our chips, and troubleshoot tools.

About the role

We're looking for a Lab Operations Technician to keep our lab running smoothly day-to-day. You'll handle the essential work that keeps experiments moving: cleaning and maintaining glassware, restocking chemicals and consumables, managing chemical inventory, changing out gas cylinders, and keeping supplies stocked across the lab.

Responsibilities

• Clean and maintain lab glassware and equipment using appropriate protocols (solvent rinses, acid baths, ultrasonic cleaners, etc.)

• Manage chemical inventory: receiving, labeling, tracking, proper storage, and disposal coordination

• Restock chemicals, consumables, PPE, and general lab supplies

• Change out compressed gas cylinders (nitrogen, argon, helium) and maintain associated regulators and lines

• Coordinate with vendors for chemical, gas, and consumable orders

• Maintain SDS documentation and support lab safety practices

• Generate reports and documentation on inventory, usage, and lab operations

• Provide lessons learned and appropriate edits to standard operating procedures

• Support engineers and technicians with hands-on lab tasks as needed

Required Experience

• Technical certificate, associate's degree or equivalent

• 1+ years of experience in a wet lab, cleanroom, or industrial chemical environment

• Hands-on experience handling and changing compressed gas cylinders (inert gases such as nitrogen, argon, helium)

• Experience with chemical inventory management, including labeling, tracking, and proper storage

• Familiarity with cleaning protocols for lab glassware and equipment (solvent rinses, acid baths, ultrasonic cleaners, etc.)

• Working knowledge of chemical safety, SDS documentation, and proper PPE use

• Reliable, detail-oriented, and comfortable working independently on recurring tasks

• Ability to lift 50 lbs and move gas cylinders with appropriate equipment

Nice-to-have

• Formal safety training such as OSHA 10/30, HAZWOPER, or DOT hazmat

• Experience in a semiconductor, nanofabrication, or cleanroom environment

• Familiarity with chemical inventory software

• Prior experience coordinating with vendors for chemical, gas, and consumable orders

Working at Atomic Semi

We’re an early-stage hardware startup with solid funding, world-class advisors, and a lab/office in San Francisco, CA. 

Benefits: Atomic Semi offers the following benefits, subject to applicable eligibility requirements: 

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

• Generous Paid Time Off inclusive of Holidays and Sick Time

• Visa Sponsorship

• Life and Disability Insurance

• Paid Parental Leave

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Weekly Learning & Development opportunities

• Commuter Benefits including Parking and Late Night Uber rides from the office

• Lunches daily, Dinners 3x per week, Stocked Office Kitchen with Snacks and Spindrifts

We are an equal-opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability or other legally protected statuses.

Export Control Analysis: This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant’s capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls.