Entry-level Laboratory Technician, TCLP

Sterling Labs invests in the success of our team. We are looking for highly motivated people who want to invest in their skill sets and careers, be rewarded for initiative, and thrive in a collaborative environment. Our analytical data has a tremendous impact on the protection of human health and the environment. We value teamwork, continuous improvement and growth, and empowered ethical decision-making.

Sterling Labs growth has been directly tied to our clients’ needs for 40 years. We are a growth‑oriented organization that puts our clients first. We partner with manufacturers, engineering firms, and government agencies to provide environmental laboratory data that helps protect the environment. From wastewater sampling and analysis in Greater Chicago to nationwide service with Department of Defense partners, our commitment to our clients drives our growth.

• We strive for Integrity in Everything We Do. We’re honest and transparent in our actions and decisions.
• We are Customer‑Focused. We prioritize our customers’ needs and value their feedback.
• We are Never Satisfied and are dedicated to continuous improvement. We always seek ways to improve and adapt to changing needs.

Monday‑Friday
10:30AM – 7:00PM

The Laboratory Technician in TCLP will be responsible for conducting a variety of laboratory tests and analyses to support environmental testing. This role involves a significant focus on TCLP analysis, utilizing established laboratory methods and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Base Pay is $17.25/h.

• PTO
• Sick Time Off
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Parental leave
• 401(k)
• Short‑Term disability
• Long‑Term disability
• Paid holidays

• Set up, conduct, and document qualitative and quantitative analyses of solid and soil samples.
• Prepare, digest, and analyze samples, ensuring consistency with lab SOPs.
• Perform Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) (76.5%), Synthetic Precipitation Leaching Procedure (SPLP) (13.5%), and Zero‑Headspace Extraction (ZHE) (10%) tests.
• Carry out wet chemistry procedures, including hexavalent chromium (CR6) preparation and soil pH measurement of soil samples.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment (e.g., pH meters, scales, thermometers, auto‑titrators, tumblers, filters, and fume hoods), and troubleshoot as necessary.
• Monitor process parameters, evaluate anomalies, and report results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS – Element
  7).
• Ensure product quality compliance with lab standards and specifications.
• Complete required laboratory documentation in logbooks, maintenance books, standard books, bench sheets, etc.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment, following disposal procedures according to SOPs.
• Track and manage supplies needed for successful test runs.
• Conduct routine hazard assessments of materials and identify any potential risks or issues with equipment or materials.
• Other duties as assigned.

TCLP and pH

Drinking Water Screens, Metals Digestions, Turbidity

XRF, grinder, pH meters, scales, thermometers, auto‑titrator, tumbler, filters, fume hoods.

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, chemistry, or biology.
• Ability to learn laboratory information systems (LIMS), databases, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and form conclusions.
• Highly organized, with an ability to follow specific rules and patterns for analysis and equipment setup.

• Must be able to stand for long periods of time.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds using correct and safe lifting techniques.
• Must be able to work in refrigerated storage areas for short periods of time.
• Must be able to wear all PPE required for the position.