Laboratory Technician (6-Week Contract

This is a temporary role expected to last roughly 6 weeks beginning in September. Hours are Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm. The Laboratory Technician performs sampling and advanced chemical, physical, and microbiological testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure compliance with quality and process standards. This role supports quality control, continuous improvement, and regulatory compliance while adhering to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and safety requirements.

Elwood Staffing associates are eligible for a comprehensive and competitive benefits package plus an exclusive savings program, including:

• Holiday Pay
• Referral Bonus Incentive
• Weekly Pay
• 401k
• And More!

• Contract position
• $26.00 /hour
• First Shift (Monday through Friday from 08:00am to 04:00pm)
• Perform physical, chemical, and microbiological testing; verify results meet product and customer specifications
• Issue Certificates of Analysis; ensure timely reporting, data entry, and record retention
• Prepare chemical solutions and reagents per standard formulas
• Operate, adjust, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory equipment (e.g., GC, LC, balances, colorimeters, refractometers, SFC, NIR)
• Calibrate lab instruments according to established schedules
• Conduct microbiological sampling, swabbing, and coordination with external labs
• Maintain lab cleanliness, preventive maintenance, and inventory of chemicals and consumables
• Ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and hazardous waste
• Maintain QA documentation supporting traceability, HACCP, sanitation, recalls, and audits
• Analyze trends and correlations among test methods; develop backup analytical approaches
• Support oil/fat formulation adjustments, rework decisions, and process optimization
• Anticipate quality risks related to raw materials, processing, or storage and proactively recommend solutions
• Develop and maintain plant-based databases and analytical records
• Participate in root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives

• Associate degree in science or technical field preferred (or equivalent experience)
• Laboratory experience in oils & fats, food, pharmaceutical, or related manufacturing
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and root cause analysis skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Proficient in data recording, reporting, and basic statistical analysis
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred)

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and celebrate diversity at all levels of our organization.