Lab Technician

Lab Technician

All work will be performed at BCP Ingredients, Balchem's subsidiary location in Verona, MO. This is an hourly union position within the testing laboratory at BCP Ingredients' manufacturing facility. This position will perform chemical and physical testing on raw materials, in-process and finished products to determine adherence to prescribed specifications. Prepare laboratory reagents and clean analytical glassware. Maintain accurate record of all analyses performed, documenting test results in laboratory notebooks and/or electronically. Keeps work area and equipment safe, clean and in good working order. Orders and maintains the necessary chemicals and supplies to ensure efficient operation of the Quality Control (QC) laboratory.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• AAS or BS degree in science or a minimum of one year experience in an analytical lab is preferred.
• Ability to interpret, analyze, reason and plan
• Ability to read, write, and perform mathematical calculations, follow oral and written instructions, and effectively communicate with all levels of employees.
• Experience and knowledge of Microsoft Office Applications (especially Excel, Access and Word)
• Strong commitment to safety is required.
• Must pass pre-employment drug test and physical.
• Ideal candidate will possess a positive attitude and strong work ethic.
• Ability to work varied shifts on a regular basis

Essential Functions:

• Analyze incoming raw materials, comparing results with supplier's Certificate of Analysis to ascertain conformance against Balchem's purchase specifications
• Issue the appropriate labels to material handlers documenting the QC status of material (i.e. approved, quarantined or rejected)
• Analyze Work in Progress (WIP) and finished products for activity, release and particle size using acid - base or redox titrations, particle size analyzers, gravimetric analysis, melt point, color comparison, etc.
• Record all results in laboratory notebook and/or electronic files following the appropriate Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's)
• Record, report and investigate non-conforming material results to supervisor in a timely manner; notify appropriate plant personnel of current production material failing its release/activity specification OR outside its prescribed action limits/target values
• Prepare and standardize laboratory reagents according to written procedures
• Ensure that all analytical glassware is clean and defect-free and that all equipment is calibrated and maintained as prescribed prior to use
• Perform, record and plot daily QC checks to ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of data being reported from the QC laboratory
• Collect and prepare samples for submission to outside laboratories utilizing the appropriate chain-of-custody and shipping requirements
• Work with Customer Service and Research & Development teams to prepare samples for shipment to potential customers; Support efforts regarding "continuous improvement" by being an active participant on various site teams or initiatives
• Follow all safety policies and procedures including use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and equipment safeguards
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory instruments daily. Instruments include, but not limited to balances, auto titrators, pH meters, refractometers, and microscopes

Working Conditions:

• Periods of standing, walking, and repetitive motion with occasional lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Operate various laboratory equipment such as burettes, balances and microscopes etc.
• Works inside a laboratory, subject to fumes, odors, gases; Safety Data Sheets describe hazardous materials

We offer:

• Starting Salary $26.51/hour
• Plus – Shift Premium $.40/hr, 2nd Shift & $.60/hr, 3rd Shift
• Medical/Dental Insurance
• Company paid pension through Central States
• Paid Vacation after 1 year
• Uniforms Provided
• Safety Equipment including safety shoes provided

Balchem is committed to a workplace culture that values and promotes diversity, inclusion, equal employment opportunities, and a work environment free of harassment and hostility.