Sterling Labs
TCLP & Product Ecology Lab Tech (Entry-Level, Sunday-Thursday)
Des Plaines, IL - Full Time
| Job Title: Laboratory Technician – TCLP & Product Ecology | FLSA Status: non-exempt |
| Reports to: Inorganics Manager | Department: Inorganics |
| Job Grade: Entry-level | Schedule: Sunday-Thursday 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
The Laboratory Technician in TCLP & Product Ecology will be responsible for conducting a variety of laboratory tests and analyses to support environmental and product testing. This role includes a significant focus on TCLP and product ecology analysis, following established lab methods and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Key Responsibilities:
- Set up, conduct, and document qualitative and quantitative analyses of solid and soil samples.
- Prepare, digest, and analyze samples, ensuring consistency with lab SOPs.
- Perform Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) (76.5%), Synthetic Precipitation Leaching Procedure (SPLP) (13.5%), and Zero-Headspace Extraction (ZHE) (10%) tests.
- Carry out wet chemistry procedures, including hexavalent chromium (CR6) preparation and soil pH measurement of soil samples.
- Perform product ecology testing, including sample preparation for phthalates analysis, X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry (XRF), and results reporting.
- Operate and maintain lab equipment (e.g., XRF, grinders, pH meters, scales, thermometers, auto titrators, tumblers, filters, and fume hoods) and troubleshoot as necessary.
- Calibrate XRF equipment before each use and create control chart validation (CCV) reports with high spike levels.
- Monitor process parameters, evaluate anomalies, and report results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS - Element 7).
- Ensure product quality compliance with lab standards and specifications.
- Complete required laboratory documentation in logbooks, maintenance books, standard books, bench sheets, etc.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment, following disposal procedures according to SOPs.
- Track and manage supplies needed for successful test runs.
- Conduct routine hazard assessments of materials and identify any potential risks or issues with equipment or materials.
- Other duties as assigned.
- Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, chemistry, or biology.
- Ability to learn laboratory information systems (LIMS), databases, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and form conclusions.
- Highly organized, with an ability to follow specific rules and patterns for analysis and equipment setup.
- Must be able to stand for a long periods of time
- Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds using correct and safe lifting techniques.
- Must be able to work in refrigerated storage areas for short periods of time.
- Must be able to wear all PPE required for the position.
XRF, grinder, pH meters, scales, thermometers, auto titrator, tumbler, filters, fume hoods.
Sterling Labs is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination or harassment. We expect every member of the Sterling Labs community to do their part to cultivate and maintain an environment where everyone has the opportunity to feel included, and is afforded the respect and dignity they deserve.
Decisions related to hiring, compensating, training, evaluating performance, or terminating are made fairly, and we provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified candidates and employees. We examine our unconscious biases and take responsibility for always striving to create an inclusive environment that makes every employee and candidate feel welcome.
