Lab Technician

About the role

The Lab Technician supports laboratory operations by caring for and maintaining all laboratory glassware, managing supplies and chemical inventory levels, and performing performance qualifications, verifications, and routine calibrations on assigned instruments. This role also assists with general lab upkeep, chemical and sample disposal, and special projects to ensure a safe, organized, and efficient laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

• Collect dirty glassware from chemists and carts throughout the day and ensure timely cleaning and return.
• Operate laboratory glassware washers and dryers, and hand-wash glassware as needed to support Research and Development and the Pilot Plant.
• Return clean glassware to appropriate shelves and/or directly to analysts in an organized manner.
• Maintain adequate stocks of glassware and place orders for new glassware as needed.
• Cook up coordination of the removal and proper disposal of old or broken glassware in accordance with safety procedures.
• Perform daily balance checks and water quality checks to ensure proper functioning of laboratory equipment.
• Perform routine performance qualifications and calibrations on select laboratory instrumentation.
• Assist with instrumentation decommissioning following established protocols.
• Support general lab cleaning to maintain a clean, safe, and compliant laboratory environment.
• Assist with chemical and sample disposal in accordance with laboratory safety policies and procedures.
• Assist the team lead with special projects and tasks as assigned.
• Adhere to all laboratory and facility safety policies and procedures at all times.
• Follow written procedures and instructions accurately to complete assigned tasks.
• Perform basic troubleshooting on laboratory equipment and processes as needed.
• Communicate effectively with team members and other laboratory personnel to coordinate work and resolve issues.
• Handle multiple tasks concurrently and complete work in a timely and organized manner.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic knowledge of laboratory safety and good laboratory practices.
• Experience or familiarity with laboratory, chemistry, quality control, or lab testing environments.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently and complete them in a timely fashion.
• Strong attention to detail with an organized, clean, and conscientious work style.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and tasks.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to follow written procedures and instructions accurately.
• Basic troubleshooting skills for laboratory equipment or processes.
• Computer skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications such as Excel, Outlook, and Word.
• Ability to stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to work flexible hours and overtime on short notice, as required.
• Ability to work in or with hazardous environments or conditions while following safety protocols.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associate degree in the sciences preferred.
• Experience operating laboratory glassware washers and dryers.
• Experience working in Research and Development or Pilot Plant laboratory environments.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain inventory levels and manage supplies.
• Experience performing routine performance qualifications and calibrations on laboratory instrumentation.
• Demonstrated ability to assist with instrumentation decommissioning.