Lab Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Lab Technician

Job Description

This role performs chemical and instrumental analyses on fuels, oils, and other lubricants in an industrial laboratory setting focused on research for automotive products. The Lab Technician follows established ASTM testing standards and internal procedures to prepare solutions and solvents, handle samples safely, and maintain accurate records. This position offers hands-on analytical lab experience, supported by structured training and shadowing, to help you build a strong foundation for a career in laboratory science.

Responsibilities

• Perform chemical and instrumental analyses on fuels, oils, and other lubricants using standard testing methods as prescribed by ASTM testing standards.
• Conduct analyses on any new sample introduced into the laboratory, following established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and test instructions.
• Prepare solutions and solvents for various laboratory tests, ensuring accuracy in measurements and calculations.
• Transfer samples safely and efficiently from one area of the laboratory to another while maintaining proper labeling and chain of custody.
• Maintain laboratory workbooks and documentation on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis in accordance with SOP and test procedures.
• Clean and wash laboratory glassware regularly to ensure a safe and contamination-free work environment.
• Use basic math calculations to support test preparation, solution making, and data analysis.
• Utilize MS Office applications to enter, organize, and report test data and maintain digital records.
• Follow basic laboratory safety practices at all times, including proper handling of fuels, oils, lubricants, and chemicals.
• Wear and correctly use provided personal protective equipment (PPE) while working with samples that may emit fuel or oil odors.
• Support general lab operations by assisting with sample preparation, equipment upkeep, and routine housekeeping tasks.
• Participate in hands-on training and shadowing to learn test methods, equipment operation, and internal quality procedures.
• Lift, move, and transport containers, samples, or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds as needed for laboratory activities.
• Collaborate with team members and follow instructions from lab lead to ensure consistent and reliable test results.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma.
• At least one year of college-level chemistry and math or one year of related laboratory experience.
• Ability to perform basic math calculations accurately for solution preparation and data work.
• Familiarity with basic laboratory safety practices and procedures.
• Experience or comfort working in a laboratory environment with sample preparation responsibilities.
• Ability to wash and maintain laboratory glassware in a clean and organized manner.
• Proficiency with MS Office applications for data entry and documentation.
• Capability to lift and transport up to 50 pounds safely.
• Willingness to work with fuels, oils, lubricants, and other samples that may have noticeable fuel or oil odors.
• Ability to follow detailed SOPs, testing methods, and written instructions consistently.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in recording and maintaining test results and lab records.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Recent associate degree in a science-related field is highly desirable.
• Recent laboratory experience gained through school coursework or academic labs is preferred.
• Comfort working in an industrial lab setting focused on automotive-related products.
• Openness to hands-on training, shadowing, and continuous learning in analytical laboratory techniques.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple samples, tests, and documentation requirements.
• Effective communication skills to interact with team members and report findings clearly.

Work Environment

The position is based in an industrial laboratory setting that supports research on automotive products, including fuels, oils, and lubricants. The lab environment involves regular handling of samples that may have a noticeable fuel or oil smell. Work is scheduled Monday through Friday with shifts typically running from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., with occasional weekend work as needed. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and must be worn as required to ensure safety when working with chemicals and samples. The role involves standing for portions of the shift, performing sample preparation, washing glassware, and using laboratory equipment and computers. Training is hands-on and delivered through shadowing experienced staff, creating a supportive learning environment where you can develop practical analytical lab skills.

This is a Contract position based out of San Antonio, TX.

The pay range for this position is $15.50 - $15.50/hr.

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)

This is a fully onsite position in San Antonio,TX.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 4, 2026.

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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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 ziprecruiter.com 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.