Laboratory Technician

Lab Technician

The Lab Technician performs a wide range of quality control and analytical testing on inbound and outbound materials, with a strong focus on wet chemistry and PCB analysis. This role supports safe and compliant waste management operations by maintaining adherence to the Waste Analysis Plan, completing and managing QC/QA documentation, and assisting with treatability studies. The Lab Technician works closely with operations and laboratory quality control teams to ensure accurate test results, proper sample handling, and timely communication of off-specification materials.

Responsibilities

• Perform wet chemistry tests on inbound and outbound load quality control (QC) samples, including titrations and related analyses.
• Conduct PCB analysis on QC samples in accordance with established methods and procedures.
• Maintain compliance with and adhere to the Waste Analysis Plan (WAP) for all testing and documentation activities.
• Complete, review, and submit QC/QA documents to Operations in a timely and accurate manner.
• File completed QC/QA documents electronically, ensuring records are organized and easily accessible.
• Compare QC/QA test results to Waste Profile Sheets to confirm that results match the approved profile and identify discrepancies.
• Process and consolidate waste samples into larger containers in accordance with safety and compatibility requirements.
• Package samples for shipment to off-site laboratories for additional testing, following all applicable regulations and procedures.
• Log test results accurately into CORE waste management software and maintain production logs and QC paperwork.
• Assist with treatability studies by performing laboratory tests and providing data to support process evaluations.
• Monitor adherence to safety regulations and proper use of laboratory equipment, reporting issues as needed.
• Initiate work orders for repair or maintenance of laboratory equipment when malfunctions or issues are identified.
• Communicate off-specification materials and test results promptly to management and relevant stakeholders.
• Conduct toolbox talks and area inspections to support a strong safety culture and regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate and communicate with the Lab QC team to accomplish daily goals and prioritize workload.
• Promptly report any incidents, injuries, or safety concerns to management.
• Follow and uphold all safety and security policies and procedures, including Cardinal Rules and Job Safety Analyses (JSAs).
• Perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by management to support laboratory and site operations.
• Adapt responsibilities as needed based on site level and location requirements.

Essential Skills

• At least 2 years of prior experience working in a laboratory environment.
• At least 3 years of experience as a Lab QC Technician.
• 40-hour HAZWOPER training.
• Experience with basic laboratory techniques and calculations, including wet chemistry and titration.
• Strong knowledge of chemical compatibilities to ensure safe handling and consolidation of materials.
• Proficiency with Windows-based computer programs.
• Ability to log and manage data in software systems such as waste management or laboratory information systems (e.g., CORE).
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability and willingness to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hard hat, steel-toed boots, gloves, Tyvek coveralls, and respirator, as needed.
• Ability to regularly access and use general office equipment such as phones, computers, and copiers.
• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds unassisted on an occasional basis.
• Ability to sit, stand, or walk for long periods of time as required by daily tasks.
• Ability to work overtime hours as needed based on business needs.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or an Environmental Sciences field preferred.
• Knowledge of gas chromatography and/or ICP-OES is highly beneficial.
• Experience monitoring safety regulations and ensuring proper use of laboratory equipment.
• Experience initiating work orders for equipment repairs and maintenance.
• Strong attention to detail in completing and reviewing QC/QA documents and production logs.
• Ability to work effectively in a busy environment and manage multiple tasks while maintaining accuracy.
• Strong organizational skills for maintaining electronic filing systems and documentation.

Work Environment

This is a full-time, on-site role with a typical schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Work takes place indoors in a generally climate-controlled laboratory environment with air conditioning. The Lab Technician works closely with a lab manager and one other lab technician in a busy, often distracting setting that requires sustained focus and attention to detail. The role involves regular use of computers, phones, and other standard office equipment, as well as laboratory instruments and waste management software. The position requires the ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods and to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally. Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, hard hat, steel-toed boots, gloves, Tyvek coveralls, and respirator, is provided and must be worn as needed to ensure a safe working environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Houston, TX.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $27.00/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 Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)