Laboratory Technician

Key responsibilities

• Test specimen preparation: Preparing samples for direct shear testing which may involve compacting of soil.
• Operating and maintaining equipment: Setting up, calibrating, operating, and maintaining direct shear testing machines and other related lab equipment.
• Performing tests: Conducting direct shear tests according to specified procedures and conditions (e.g., normal stress, conditions, and shearing rate).
• Data collection and analysis: Monitoring and recording the shear force, vertical displacement, and horizontal displacement of the sample at regular intervals during the test.
• Reporting: Documenting the test procedures, results, and observations in a clear and concise manner.
• Quality control: Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of test results by following quality control procedures and adhering to industry standards.
• Troubleshooting: Identifying and resolving any issues or malfunctions that may arise during the testing process or with the equipment.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with team members to ensure the accuracy and timely completion of testing and reporting.
• Safety: Following all safety protocols and maintaining a clean and organized work environment.

Requirements

• Technical skills: Proficiency in operating laboratory equipment, using hand tools, and performing basic calculations.
• Physical Stamina: The role may require physical exertion, such as lifting and moving heavy objects.
• Attention to detail: Ensuring the accuracy of measurements, following procedures, and maintaining detailed records is crucial.
• Reading and interpreting technical documents: Ability to read and understand specifications, test methods and safety guidelines.
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills: Ability to diagnose and fix issues related to equipment or testing procedures.
• Communication skills: Effective written and verbal communication skills for documentation, reporting, and collaborating with team members.
• High School Diploma or GED: This is the minimum educational requirement for a direct shear technician.
• Mechanical Aptitude: The ability to understand and work with machines and tools effectively.

Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Relevant to the Position

• The candidate shall have a minimum of secondary level education.
• Minimum of one year of work-related skill or experience in similar endeavor. Relevant experience in environmental projects is an advantage.
• Attention to Detail: Performing tests requires exact measurements and a good eye for detail, or the results could be false.
• Dexterity: Lab techs work with their hands and will need dexterity to work with small samples and delicate lab equipment.
• Stamina: Lab technicians work long days on their feet, sometimes hunched over a workstation for long periods of time.
• Technical Skill: Lab techs need to understand complex lab machinery and computer programs used to conduct tests.
• Thoroughly knowledgeable in computer Microsoft applications, minimum of MS Excel.
• Knowledgeable in physical and mechanical testing of Geosynthetic materials, in-plant sampling.
• Able to lift up to 60 pounds of samples that requires tests.
• Ability to follow instructions and laboratory procedures.
• Ability to read and comprehend packaged instructions.

Salary Description

• $22.00 - $26.00 per hour