Lab Technician (I, II, III) - Pulp & Paper

The Lab Technician is responsible for collecting pulp and paper samples from the field, testing, analyzing data, recording and reporting results to stakeholders to support mill operations.

The position level will be determined based on education, experience, and technical capability, ranging from:

• Lab Technician I - Chip Lab
• Junior Lab Technician II - Pulp Lab
• Senior Lab Technician III - Paper Lab

About Port Townsend Paper Company (PTPC)

The Port Townsend Paper ("PTPC") mill is proud to have been in continuous operation for more than 90 years. We use a blend of virgin and recycled fibers (Kraft and OCC pulp) to produce Kraft pulp, paper, containerboard, medium and market pulp. We have built a strong and loyal customer base by developing and nurturing strategic partnership-style relationships.

At PTPC we believe that a healthy and safe work environment is fundamental to the success of all employees. We put that belief into practice every day by managing risk and building safety reliability into our processes and procedures. Engaging and empowering our workforce to maintain world-class safety performance is the pathway to achieving operational excellence. We also strive to preserve the environment, be good neighbors, and remain a valued member of the local community. Many of our employees have enjoyed working at PTPC for the greater part of their careers; we have employees with 20, 25, 30, even 35 years of service. PTPC is proud to provide good, prevailing wage jobs on the Olympic Peninsula.

Job Responsibilities

• Follow mill safety protocols and procedures to ensure a safe and injury-free working environment.
• Perform laboratory wet and dry tests, chemical titration tests, running experiments, data collections, analyses of data and reporting in accordance with established protocol and procedures.
• Maintain laboratory testing equipment and instruments are calibrated, certified, ensuring accuracy and reliability of results.
• Collect, process and prepare samples for testing.
• Maintain all data electronically, organize and keep records from testing, log sheets, and documents, ensuring completeness, accuracy, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Assist with the development and validation of laboratory methods, procedures, and protocols.
• Conduct daily quality control checks in conformance to assurance procedures to make sure quality products are delivered to customers.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues and problems related to laboratory equipment, procedures, and processes.
• Collaborate and provide technical support with technical staff and other departments.
• Contribute to the maintenance and cleanliness of the laboratory facilities and workspaces.
• Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of work.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills; keep data organized.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Familiarity with Six Sigma principles and quality tools is a plus

Qualifications by Level

Lab Technician I - Chip Lab

• Minimum high school diploma required with coursework and training in science, mathematics and laboratory methods.
• Basic experience working in manufacturing, laboratory, and fast-moving environments.
• Strong quantitative, organizational and basic computer skills.
• Willingness to adapt and learn industrial processes and regulatory requirements.

Junior Lab Technician II - Pulp Lab

• Minimum associate degree with course work in physical science, chemistry, pulp and paper, engineering or a related field with at least three years of experience in manufacturing and chemical and fiber testing laboratories.
• Or, bachelor's degree in industrial, chemical engineering, pulp and paper and 1-2 years of experience in manufacturing, laboratory, technical, or industrial operations support.

Senior Lab Technician - Paper Lab

• Minimum bachelor's degree in pulp and paper, physical science, chemical/industrial engineering or chemistry.
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in manufacturing, industrial labs, technical, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and certifications.

Employment Terms

• Full-time, Non-Exempt position
• Salary range: $50,000 to $92,500
• Excellent benefits package including medical, dental, life, and long-term disability insurance.
• Competitive paid vacation plan.
• 9 paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
• Retirement plan.
• In compliance with the Immigration and Naturalization Act, proof of authorization to work in the United States will be required at the time of hire.
• Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position

Port Townsend Paper Company is an equal opportunity employer. We are a drug-free workplace.