Lead Extraction Tech

Summary of the Role The Lead Extraction Technician oversees day-to-day extraction room operations and post-processing workflows.

This position ensures safety, compliance, and production efficiency while training and mentoring Extraction Technicians.

The role is responsible for setting process parameters, monitoring production performance, and achieving yield, potency, and terpene retention targets across CO ₂ , hydrocarbon (BHO), and solventless methodologies.

Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership Own daily production planning for extraction and post-processing.

Assign tasks, conduct stand-up meetings, and remove workflow obstacles.

Set, document, and verify critical control parameters (e.g., temperature, pressure, solvent ratios).

Approve start-up / shutdown checklists and sign off on changeovers and line clearance.

Extraction & Post-Processing Operate and supervise CO ₂ extraction systems (supercritical / subcritical), including crude, fractionation, and terpene capture.

Lead hydrocarbon (BHO) closed-loop operations for live resin, sauce, badder, diamonds, and other premium concentrates.

Manage solventless workflows such as ice water hash, mechanical separation, and rosin pressing.

Oversee post-processing :

• winterization, filtration, solvent recovery, decarboxylation, crystallization, and wiped-film or short-path distillation.
• Quality, Compliance & Documentation Maintain complete and accurate batch records and ensure METRC integrity.
• Partner with QA to support HACCP / cGMP practices, deviations, investigations, and CAPA implementation.
• Conduct internal audits and maintain SOPs, work instructions, and training documentation.
• Safety & Equipment Enforce C1D1 / C1D2 and hazardous location safety requirements, including PPE, LOTO, and solvent handling.
• Collaborate with Maintenance on preventive maintenance (PMs) for pumps, chillers, heaters, and vacuum systems.
• Maintain logs for downtime, repairs, and corrective actions.
• People Development Train, coach, and evaluate Extraction Technicians I / II / III, validating skill competencies.
• Model strong documentation and work discipline; provide real-time feedback and address performance issues.
• Continuous Improvement & R&D Run trials to improve yield, terpene retention, and throughput; monitor KPIs (yield %, potency, batch time, rework).
• Lead cost-reduction and efficiency initiatives including solvent recovery and cycle time reduction.
• Support the qualification of new SKUs and process enhancements.
• Qualifications
• 3–5+ years of hands-on extraction experience in CO ₂ , BHO, and solventless processes.
• Proven leadership or shift lead experience in regulated production (cannabis, pharma, food, chemical).
• Strong knowledge of closed-loop systems, vacuum and filtration equipment, and distillation operations.
• Understanding of C1D1 safety standards and LEL monitoring.
• Excellent documentation and data tracking skills (yields, potency, terpene data).
• Familiarity with METRC and QA frameworks (HACCP, cGMP, ISO).
• Mechanical aptitude for diagnosing and maintaining process equipment.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs, stand for long periods, and work in varied temperatures with PPE.
• Must hold or be eligible for Pennsylvania medical marijuana worker credentials.
• Physical and Environmental Requirements
• Ability to work up to 10 hours per day with rotating shifts.
• Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 75 pounds.
• Frequent sitting, squatting, bending, and kneeling.
• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Comfortable working under continuous video surveillance.
• Exposure to fumes, dust, odors, motion, and varying noise levels.
• Work includes C1D1 / C1D2 lab environments and cold storage areas.
• Compensation & Benefits
• Competitive pay commensurate with experience and leadership scope.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Employee product discounts (as permitted by law).
• Advancement opportunities toward Extraction Supervisor or Manager roles.
• Diversity and Inclusion Calypso Enterprises is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate based on race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, or veteran status, in accordance with applicable federal, state, or local laws Powered by JazzHR