Quality Lab Technician

About the role

The Quality Lab Technician works in a fast‑paced laboratory environment performing a wide range of analytical tests to ensure product quality, with a strong focus on gas chromatography (GC). This role involves testing liquid contents used in aerosol products, occasionally testing aerosolized products, and accurately documenting all test results. The technician spends most of the day conducting product testing in the lab, preparing and blending samples, supporting production filling operations, and maintaining thorough records of all analyses.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and non‑routine analytical testing using GC, HPLC, pH measurement, FTIR, percent solids, viscosity, color, odor, appearance assessments, titrations, and other wet‑chemistry techniques.
• Conduct product testing primarily on liquid contents destined for aerosol products, with occasional testing of aerosolized products.
• Blend and prepare samples for analysis, including samples pulled from production filling lines.
• Document all test results accurately in laboratory notebooks, forms, and electronic systems, ensuring complete and compliant records.
• Allocate daily time effectively: ~80% in the laboratory, ~10% on production lines, and ~10% on paperwork, documentation, and data entry.
• Support quality‑assurance activities on the production floor by testing in‑process materials and finished products as needed.
• Follow established laboratory procedures, test methods, and safety protocols at all times.
• Maintain laboratory equipment in good working order by using instruments properly and reporting issues promptly.
• Collaborate with quality and laboratory team members to resolve testing questions and ensure consistent results.
• Adhere to all safety requirements, including proper use of personal protective equipment, and contribute to a safe and clean laboratory environment.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma.
• 1–2+ years of experience with gas chromatography (GC) or liquid chromatography (LC) in any industry.
• Demonstrated experience with GC (the most critical skill for this role).
• Experience performing analytical tests such as HPLC, GC, pH, FTIR, and other wet‑chemistry techniques.
• Ability to perform wet‑chemistry methods including titrations, percent solids, viscosity, color, odor, and appearance testing.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in recording and documenting test results.
• Comfort working in a fast‑paced laboratory environment and on production lines as needed.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 lb as required.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field (preferred).
• Experience working in a quality‑assurance or quality‑control laboratory environment.
• Familiarity with aerosol or liquid product testing (beneficial).
• Strong organizational skills for managing laboratory notebooks, paperwork, and data entry.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with laboratory managers, quality managers, QC chemists, and other QA technicians.

Work Environment & Schedule

This permanent position is based in Janesville, WI, in a laboratory setting with significant interaction with production areas. The typical schedule is a first shift, approximately 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend work or overtime as needed. Training may occur on different shifts depending on operational needs. Proper personal protective equipment (safety glasses, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs) is provided and must be worn. Physical demands include standing ~75% of the time, sitting ~25%, and occasionally lifting up to 25 lb.

Pay

$52,000 – $58,240 per year (range depends on qualifications, experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent factors).

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 401(k) match
• PTO
• Holiday