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Jobs · Analyst · Illinois

Entry-Level Laboratory Technician – BOD & COD (Sun-Thur 10 AM -6:30 PM)

Sterling Labs · Des Plaines, IL · 2 mo ago
On-siteAnalystFull-time

About Us

Sterling Labs (Environmental Monitoring & Technologies, LLC) is a DoD, NELAP, ANAB, and AIHA-accredited environmental laboratory providing high-integrity analytical data through state-of-the-art technology and validated testing methodologies. For more than 40 years, our work has supported initiatives that protect human health and the environment. Our success is built on client partnerships and scientific excellence. We collaborate with environmental consultants, engineering firms, and government agencies to deliver reliable, timely analytical results that support regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship.

When you join Sterling Labs, you become part of a team of scientists, professionals, and technical specialists who share one purpose: WE PRESERVE THE PLANET TO PROTECT THE FUTURE. This purpose shapes our culture, drives our decisions, and guides how we serve our clients and support one another. We believe that meaningful progress comes from integrity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improvement—principles reflected in our core values.

Core Values

  • Integrity in Everything We Do – We act with honesty, transparency, and accountability.
  • Customer Focused – We prioritize our clients’ needs and value their feedback.
  • We are never satisfied – We seek better ways to serve our clients and support our employees through innovation and growth.

Responsibilities

  • Monitor inventory and notify the supervisor of supply needs to ensure uninterrupted laboratory operations.
  • Perform routine operation, calibration, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting of laboratory instrumentation in accordance with SOPs.
  • Prepare, label, and document reagents, calibration standards, and quality control solutions.
  • Complete general laboratory paperwork in logbooks, maintenance books, standard books, bench sheets, etc.
  • Report results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
  • Properly dispose of samples according to the SOPs.
  • Maintain the cleanliness and functionality of laboratory equipment and workspaces to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
  • Proactively communicate workload status, data discrepancies, or potential issues to the department manager.
  • Participate in root cause investigations, including Corrective Action Reports (CARs), and assist with implementing corrective and preventive actions.
  • Communicate sample and work order status using the Work Status Report in Element 7.
  • Other duties as determined by the department manager.

Testing Responsibilities

  • Primary responsibilities: BOD, COD
  • Secondary Responsibilities: TDS, TSS, Paint filter, Alkalinity

Instrumentation

  • Auto-pipettes
  • Laboratory balances
  • Thermometers
  • Paint filter
  • YSI oxygen meters
  • SEAL segmented flow analyzer
  • HACH spectrophotometer
  • Automated flash point apparatus
  • BOD automated system

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or a related scientific discipline preferred.
  • Proficiency with standard office software, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
  • Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), such as Element™ or comparable platforms, is preferred.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Self-motivated and results-oriented, with the ability to manage tasks independently and meet deadlines.

Physical Requirements

  • Prolonged periods of standing while performing sample preparation, digestion, and instrumental analyses.
  • Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle pipettes, balances, glassware, and laboratory instrumentation with precision.
  • Must be able to lift, carry, and move reagent containers, sample batches, and laboratory equipment weighing up to 30 pounds using proper and safe lifting techniques.
  • Occasional bending, reaching, and stooping to set up instruments, retrieve supplies, or perform maintenance on laboratory equipment.
  • Must be able to visually read meniscus lines, color changes, and digital instrument readings accurately; specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Must be able to work safely around acids, bases, and other hazardous laboratory chemicals while wearing required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coats, and safety glasses.
  • Ability to maintain concentration and attention to detail during repetitive testing and data entry tasks.
  • Must be able to communicate clearly and professionally with supervisors and coworkers regarding data quality, workload, and safety issues.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Benefits

  • Healthcare Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, and short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)

Schedule

Monday-Friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

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