Lab Technician

Job Title:

Lab Technician

Job Description

The Lab Technician performs a wide range of chemical, physical, and instrumental tests on raw materials, in-process samples, finished products, and customer samples to ensure consistent product quality and process control. This role follows established analytical procedures, maintains accurate documentation, and collaborates closely with Quality, Production, and R&D teams while working safely with hazardous materials in a laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

+ Perform chemical, physical, and instrumental testing on raw materials, in-process samples, finished products, and customer product samples using techniques such as volumetric and gravimetric analyses, pH measurement, FTIR, specific gravity (SPG), refractive index (RI), and other instrumental methods.

+ Conduct functional testing, including International Annealed Copper Standard (IACS) and thermal conductivity measurements, as needed to support product and process evaluation.

+ Follow written analytical procedures and test methods precisely to ensure reliable and repeatable results.

+ Validate established analytical methods and assist in troubleshooting testing procedures to maintain high standards of product quality.

+ Collect, enter, review, and validate test data in WinLIMS or similar laboratory data management systems, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

+ Perform calculations related to test results and prepare data summaries for review and approval.

+ Communicate sample status, test progress, and final results clearly and promptly to Quality, Production, and R&D teams.

+ Maintain accurate and up-to-date laboratory documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), test methods, protocols, deviations, batch records, and certificates of analysis (COAs).

+ Handle hazardous materials safely by following all site safety procedures, chemical hygiene protocols, and proper storage and disposal practices.

+ Monitor laboratory processes and troubleshoot basic process issues, escalating more complex problems appropriately.

+ Support quality control activities by focusing on process control, thorough documentation, and adherence to quality standards.

+ Work collaboratively in a team environment, following instructions and contributing to continuous improvement of laboratory operations.

Essential Skills

+ Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related field.

+ Experience in quality control or analytical testing in a laboratory setting, which may include materials testing, metals testing, or academic lab experience.

+ Ability to perform chemical and physical analyses such as volumetric and gravimetric testing, pH measurement, FTIR, SPG, and RI.

+ Experience conducting functional tests such as IACS and thermal conductivity or the ability to learn these techniques.

+ Proficiency with basic computer applications, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, and the ability to log and manage process data.

+ Capability to use or quickly learn WinLIMS or similar laboratory information management systems for data entry and validation.

+ Strong attention to detail with a focus on process control, accurate documentation, and maintaining high quality standards.

+ Ability to work effectively in a team environment, follow written and verbal instructions, and communicate clearly with cross-functional groups.

+ Hands-on approach to laboratory work with good time management skills to handle multiple tasks and priorities.

+ Commitment to safe handling of hazardous materials and adherence to site safety and chemical hygiene protocols.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Familiarity with statistical analysis software such as Minitab is a plus and supports data analysis and process improvement activities.

+ Material testing or experience working with metals is beneficial for supporting product and process characterization.

+ Prior quality control experience in an industrial or research laboratory environment is advantageous.

+ Demonstrated ability to maintain organized records, including SOPs, test methods, protocols, deviations, batch records, and COAs.

+ Strong communication skills for effectively sharing test results and sample status with Quality, Production, and R&D teams.

+ Demonstrated reliability, initiative, and a hands-on mindset in a laboratory or technical environment.

Work Environment

This role operates in a laboratory environment that focuses on quality control and analytical testing of…