Lab Technician Level 1

Job Summary As a Lab Technician I, you are the foundation of our testing operation. You will receive and log incoming samples, prepare test specimens, run tests across our full test menu, and record the data that becomes our customers' deliverable. This is an entry-level position and we provide all required training. You are not expected to know laboratory testing on day one. You are expected to show up ready to work, take direction well, and build real skill with intention. Training and day-to-day direction come from our experienced technicians and the Quality team. As you demonstrate competency on a test or activity and a member of Quality signs you off, you take that work on independently. Sign-off is earned through demonstrated ability — not handed out with time served. Clear advancement exists for the right person. This seat leads to Lab Technician II or Quality Technician I. What Matters Most In This Role We can teach you how to run every test in the building. We cannot teach you these: Dedication. You show up, on time, every day, ready to goWork ethic. You take on the task in front of you, including the unglamorous ones, and you finish itAttention to detail. Accuracy in measurements, in documentation, in observations. A transposed digit or a blank field on a worksheet is a real problem for a real customerIntegrity. You record what actually happened, not what should have happened. You flag problems immediately instead of hoping nobody notices. Our accreditations depend on the honesty of every data point If those describe you, we will handle the rest. Sample Receipt & Order Entry Receive incoming samples and verify they match the accompanying work order documentationLog work order information into the laboratory management system: customer name, order number, sample count, required tests, and any special instructionsAssign unique identifiers to each sample and apply labels for full traceability through the testing processStage samples in designated receiving areas, organized by work order and priorityImmediately flag any discrepancy between sample condition and the work order — wrong quantity, damaged parts, missing specifications Sample Preparation Prepare test specimens by cutting, grinding, mounting, and polishing as required by the applicable test standardConfirm sample preparation meets specification requirements before handoff: no defects, correct dimensions, proper surface conditionPrepare test panels for process qualification work including anodize, plating (electroless nickel, zinc, cadmium, chrome), and chemical film tank qualificationsMaintain organized staging of prepared samples linked to their work orders throughout the prep processKeep prep areas, tools, and equipment clean and organized at all times Test Execution Perform tests according to industry standards (ASTM, AMS) and customer specificationsWork under direct guidance while learning each testOnce Quality has signed off on your competency for a specific test or activity, perform it independently going forwardFollow all specified conditions and parameters exactly, and flag deviations immediately Documentation & Data Recording Record all required data on the applicable test worksheet: sample ID, test parameters, equipment used, environmental conditions, start and stop times, and raw observationsKeep worksheets legible, complete, and accurate. No blank fields. No approximations without notationRecord data only — determinations are made by the Quality team, not at the Level I positionReport anomalies, parameter deviations, and unusual observations immediately, and document them on the worksheet Equipment Operation & Maintenance Operate all lab equipment according to established procedures and manufacturer instructionsClean and maintain assigned equipment after each useReport equipment malfunctions, abnormal readings, or damage immediatelyAssist with periodic function checks and support the calibration schedule as directed Safety & Lab Compliance Follow all safety protocols and PPE requirements without exceptionDispose of chemical waste according to established guidelines and applicable regulationsReport safety concerns, near misses, and incidents immediatelyMaintain a clean, organized, hazard-free work environment at all times Schedule Full-time, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. All testing technicians participate in a rotating weekend shift, distributed evenly across the technician group. Weekend coverage is scheduled in advance and coordinated by the General Manager. Requirements Required High school diploma or equivalentAbility to follow written and verbal instructions precisely and consistentlyStrong attention to detail — accuracy in measurements, documentation, and observationsReliable attendance and willingness to participate in the rotating weekend shiftAbility to stand for extended periods, lift samples and equipment, and work in a laboratory environmentBasic computer proficiency for data entry and work order system useWillingness to work with chemicals, acids, and laboratory solutions under proper PPE protocols Preferred Experience in a laboratory, manufacturing, or technical environmentFamiliarity with ASTM or AMS standards — general awareness is a plusExperience in metal finishing, plating, anodize, or aerospaceAny quality or laboratory certifications Skills Follow a written procedure exactly, every time, without shortcutsProduce complete, legible, accurate records under a normal production workloadRecognize when something looks wrong and speak up about it immediatelyKeep a workspace and equipment clean and organized without being askedAsk good questions and seek to understand why a procedure exists, not just what it saysWork as part of a small team where reliability is visible and matters Experience Laboratory, manufacturing, or technical environment: not required — full training providedMetal finishing, plating, anodize, or aerospace: preferredExposure to ASTM or AMS standards: preferred Benefits 401(k) with Company Match Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Health Savings Account (HSA) Company-Paid Life Insurance Paid Time Off (PTO)