Laboratory Technician

Location: St. Charles

Job Title:

Quality Laboratory Technician

Job Description

This role focuses on performing incoming and in-process quality acceptance testing to ensure that raw materials and production mixes meet established standards. The Quality Laboratory Technician monitors instruments and test processes, compiles and reviews test data, and communicates quality issues to the quality manager and production teams. The position suits someone who enjoys working independently in a laboratory environment while also engaging with production operations to collect samples and support investigations.

Responsibilities

* Perform incoming and in-process quality acceptance testing on raw materials and production mixes according to established procedures.

* Collect samples of raw materials and mixes from the production area and bring them to the lab for testing.

* Conduct a variety of tests, including tensile tests, acetone tests, humidity tests, freezer tests, sieve tests, hardness testing, dimensional inspections, pH measurements, and viscosity testing.

* Monitor instruments and testing processes to ensure accurate, reliable, and consistent results.

* Compile, document, and organize test data in a clear and traceable manner.

* Review test results to identify trends, deviations, or non-conformances and escalate issues as appropriate.

* Update the quality manager and production teams promptly with any quality issues or concerns.

* Participate in internal and external audits related to quality and laboratory processes.

* Complete non-conforming material reports and support investigations into quality issues.

* Follow established quality, safety, and documentation standards while working in the laboratory and in production areas.

* Collaborate with production personnel to support problem-solving and continuous improvement efforts related to product quality.

* Use computer systems and software, including MS Word and Excel, to record results, prepare reports, and maintain documentation.

* Support the maintenance and cleanliness of laboratory equipment, tools, and work areas.

* Work overtime when needed, including starting up to four hours before the regular shift to support production and quality demands.

Essential Skills

* 2-5 years of experience in quality laboratory testing or a closely related laboratory role.

* Hands-on experience with quality lab testing of raw materials and production mixes.

* Proficiency in tensile testing, raw material testing, dimensional inspections, hardness testing, humidity testing, pH testing, viscosity testing, and sieve testing.

* Ability to perform and interpret a variety of mechanical, physical, and chemical tests, including acetone tests, freezer tests, and humidity tests.

* Strong attention to detail and accuracy when compiling, reviewing, and documenting test data.

* Ability to monitor and operate laboratory instruments and testing equipment safely and effectively.

* Proficiency with MS Word and MS Excel for data entry, analysis, and reporting.

* Capability to work independently in a lab environment while managing multiple tests and priorities.

* Effective communication skills to update quality management and production teams on quality issues.

* Willingness and ability to work overtime, including up to four hours before the scheduled shift when needed.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

* Experience using SAP or similar enterprise resource planning systems is preferred.

* Comfort working both in a controlled laboratory setting and in a production environment.

* Ability to participate in audits and support completion of non-conforming material reports and investigations.

* Interest in long-term, stable employment and contributing to a culture that values entrepreneurship, passion, reliability, responsibility, and technological excellence.

Work Environment

This position operates primarily on a first shift schedule, Monday through Friday, from approximately 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Initial training takes place on first shift for several weeks to ensure familiarity with laboratory procedures, equipment, and quality standards. The role is largely independent, with most work performed in the quality laboratory, where the technician conducts testing and manages data. The position also requires regular trips into the production area to collect samples and perform some testing outside the lab.

The production environment is not air conditioned and can be very dirty, so candidates should be comfortable working in a more rugged, industrial setting when outside the lab. Overtime is required as business needs dictate, and the technician must be able to start work up to four hours before the regular shift when needed. The broader organization emphasizes long-term stability, with many employees remaining through retirement, and promotes a culture of entrepreneurship, passion, reliability, responsibility, and technological excellence.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of St. Charles, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for…