Technical Lab Associate

Job Title: Technical Lab AssociateJob Description The Technical Laboratory Associate plays a key role in supporting laboratory-based research, process development, and manufacturing support functions. This position focuses on hands-on testing, analytical evaluation, and verification of materials to ensure consistency with defined requirements. The role includes quality testing, investigation of process variation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to maintain performance and compliance standards. The successful candidate will be organized, analytical, and comfortable working in a dynamic lab setting both independently and as part of a team. Responsibilities Carry out laboratory testing to support research projects and manufacturing operations. Execute quality verification and certification testing on internally produced and customer-provided materials. Investigate and resolve process inconsistencies through bench-scale testing and data evaluation. Work closely with production personnel and supervisory staff to evaluate and approve finished materials. Communicate with external clients and suppliers regarding analytical results and material certifications. Collect, document, and manage data generated from both in-house and third-party testing activities. Generate and distribute technical summaries and test reports to internal teams and external partners. Support internal audit activities and assist with adherence to laboratory quality systems and procedures. Essential Skills Associates or Bachelors degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related physical science discipline. At least one year of hands-on laboratory experience in an educational, industrial, or research environment. Demonstrated ability to plan, perform, and document experiments with minimal supervision. Experience analyzing experimental data and preparing clear, well-organized technical reports. Capable of interpreting written specifications and developing test plans to verify compliance. Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly present technical information. Proven ability to work effectively both independently and within cross-functional teams. Professional communication style when working with leadership, colleagues, customers, and suppliers. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Additional Skills & Qualifications Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation such as FTIR, DSC, TGA, chromatography, or related techniques. Familiarity with regulated quality systems such as ISO or GMP standards. Previous involvement in materials testing, quality labs, or manufacturing support operations. Work Environment The role is primarily laboratory-based and involves routine interaction with chemicals, analytical equipment, and standard safety practices. The position may require standing for extended periods and occasional handling or lifting of materials (30-50 pounds). The work environment is within a foam manufacturing facility that operates under a union. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Jessup, MD. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $28.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance ProgramTime Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Oct 29, 2026. Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Jessup,MD. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools. #J-18808-Ljbffr Actalent