Laboratory Technician I - Chattanooga, TN

We are a cotton pulp processing plant located in Chattanooga, TN. We take raw cotton linters and process them into bleached pulp sheets used as an additive for food and pharmaceutical applications. Our lab tests finished pulp sheets and in-process samples, requiring flexibility due to reanalysis needs, plant issues, or equipment delays.

About the role

In this position, you will prepare in-process and finished product samples, perform analytical testing using instrumental and wet chemistry procedures, and record results using computerized data systems. Key responsibilities include:

• Performing daily process monitoring tests throughout the plant as assigned.
• Maintaining samples of tested product to confirm results if necessary.
• Documenting results of all testing procedures and promptly notifying operations of required adjustments.
• Entering and reporting data using a Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Understanding production processes and making recommendations to operators to achieve product quality.
• Performing light maintenance and calibration on laboratory equipment.
• Maintaining ongoing records of testing results and inputting data into computers daily.
• Managing adequate supplies for testing procedures and notifying the manager when reordering is needed.
• Comparing equipment readouts with standard samples to ensure system accuracy.
• Maintaining a neat and clean work area, washing equipment, and storing it properly.
• Working safely, using approved safety equipment, and completing safety certification requirements.
• Adhering to FDA, GMP, BATF, EPA, OSHA, and employer standards and guidelines.

Requirements

• Willingness and ability to work off-shifts, including weekends and holidays.
• Active participation in training efforts and safety initiatives.
• Attention to detail in following procedures, analytical techniques, and computer entry.
• Timely communication of results, problems, and priorities to supervisors and production departments.
• Ability to use mathematics and troubleshoot lab equipment.
• Flexibility in accepting change and an attitude of continuous improvement.
• Maintaining proper housekeeping and cleanliness in all work areas.

Qualifications

• Two-year science-related degree and/or two years of lab experience.
• Familiarity with operating standard lab equipment (e.g., pH meter, balances, extractions, GC, ICP).
• Science background and previous experience with analytical testing.
• Familiarity with GMP/GLP (Good Manufacturing/Laboratory Practices).

Skills

• Attention to detail
• Commitment, dependability, and ownership
• Composure under pressure and professionalism
• Team focus
• Openness in communicating and listening
• Results orientation

Pay

$24/hr. Base pay offered may vary depending on market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The pay range for this position is expected to be between $41,600.00 and $71,000.00 annually.

Schedule

40–44 hours per week. Weekend work will be mandatory after training.

Benefits

In addition to competitive pay, we offer a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance well-being, including:

• Physical wellness: Medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage; on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
• Financial wellness: Flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions, cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers’ compensation, legal assistance, and identity theft protection.
• Mental and social wellness: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).
• Additional benefits: Paid time off including holidays, adoption assistance, paid maternity and parental leave, tuition assistance, company-sponsored training and development resources (e.g., LinkedIn Learning, language training, mentoring programs).

*Benefits may vary for bargained locations.