Laboratory Technician

About Day & Zimmermann

At our Day & Zimmermann Munitions Plants, we know the stakes and We do what we say! We’re the team working behind the scenes to make sure our nation’s front lines have safe, high-quality ammunition. As a trusted premier manufacturer of ammunition to the U.S. Military, some of our capabilities range from production of direct and indirect fire, components, to special projects and beyond.

With more than 120 years of experience behind us, it’s no surprise that our teams consistently exceed expectations! Come join in on our purpose – We put people to work, we protect American freedoms, and we help our customers power and improve the world!

The Laboratory Technician at Day & Zimmermann division plays a crucial role in supporting the company's commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence. This role involves conducting thorough and precise laboratory analyses on a variety of samples, including environmental, quality control, and safety materials. Utilizing advanced analytical instrumentation and methodologies, the technician will contribute to maintaining high standards of product integrity and regulatory compliance.

Additionally, this position actively participates in method development and research initiatives designed to enhance testing accuracy, streamline workflow, and improve overall operational efficiency within a dynamic and team-oriented environment. Located within the Munitions & Government-Texarkana-TX office, this technician role requires a detail-oriented and analytical thinker who thrives in a laboratory setting and upholds rigorous standard operating procedures (SOPs). The successful candidate will be integral in identifying and resolving analytical challenges, ensuring that critical testing processes meet stringent quality and safety requirements essential to the business unit, D&Z Plants, and the broader organization.

• Conduct detailed chemical and physical analyses of hazardous and non-hazardous samples derived from production batches, raw materials, and expired products by applying sophisticated techniques such as wet chemistry, use of analytical balances, vacuum ovens, calorimeters, distillation apparatuses, and other specialized laboratory equipment, ensuring adherence to established SOPs and safety protocols (approximately 50% of daily responsibilities).
• Perform scheduled and preventive maintenance on all laboratory instruments and equipment, including calibration and troubleshooting to ensure optimal operational readiness and longevity of tools and testing devices (around 15%).
• Accurately document and communicate all test data, findings, and observations through reports and data management systems, ensuring clarity and accessibility for internal stakeholders and compliance with regulatory requirements (about 15%).
• Collaborate with laboratory team members and research personnel to develop, validate, and refine new analytical methods and procedures that increase testing accuracy and efficiency, referencing current scientific literature and governmental standards (15%).
• Provide technical assistance and share expertise with Chemists across other Company or Government sites as needed, promoting continuity and consistency in laboratory practices (5%).
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment in compliance with safety standards, including proper handling and disposal of chemicals and hazardous substances.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities and training sessions aimed at enhancing laboratory capabilities and personal professional development.

• Theoretical and practical knowledge:
  Comprehensive understanding of analytical chemistry techniques, instrumentation, and their applications within a controlled laboratory setting.
• Regulatory familiarity:
  Ability to interpret and apply technical procedures, safety standards, and governmental regulations relevant to laboratory operations and hazardous material handling.
• Technical proficiency:
  Advanced computer literacy, including Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) for managing data and reporting.
• Problem-solving and analytical skills:
  Strong aptitude for defining complex problems, performing data collection, establishing factual bases, and drawing valid conclusions from experimental results.
• Attention to detail:
  Meticulous in following formulas and SOPs, ensuring accuracy and…