Wet Chem Lab Tech - Entry Level

WHY US?
Sterling Labs invests in the success of our team. We are looking for highly motivated people who want to invest in their skillsets and career, be rewarded for initiative, and thrive in a collaborative environment. Our analytical data has tremendous impact in protecting human health and the environment. We value teamwork, continuous improvement and growth, and empowered ethical decision-making.
We Preserve the Planet to Protect the Future.

Our Core Values:
We strive for Integrity in Everything We Do. We're honest and transparent in our actions and decisions.
We are Customer-Focused. We prioritize our customers' needs and value their feedback.
We are Never Satisfied and are dedicated to continuous improvement. We always seek ways to improve and adapt to changing needs.

Sterling Labs' growth has been directly tied to our client’s needs for 36 years. We are a growth-oriented organization that puts our clients first. We partner with manufacturers, engineering firms, and government agencies to provide environmental laboratory data that helps protect the environment. From wastewater sampling and analysis in greater Chicago and Milwaukee, to nationwide service with Department of Defense partners, our commitment to our clients drives our growth.

POSITION OVERVIEW
The Environmental Laboratory Technician conducts routine preparation, digestion, and sample analysis as needed following official methods and laboratory Standard Operation Procedures. This is an entry-level full-time role, located in Des Plaines, IL. 60016

OBJECTIVES OF POSITION

• The Environmental Laboratory Technician conducts routine preparation, digestion, and sample analysis as needed following official methods and laboratory Standard Operation Procedures (SOP).
• The ELT is responsible for managing their sample workload to meet reporting deadlines, performing tests according to appropriate quality parameters with proper technique, and communicating issues and needs to the department manager.
• The ELT performs specific duties assigned by the department manager to ensure client service requests are met.
• Must display motivation to see projects through to completion to meet client expectations.

DUTIES OF THE POSISTION

Primary tests:

• Reactive Cyanide
• Reactive Sulfide
• Bomb Prep, BTU
• NH3 by 4500
• TKN
• Sulfide by Methylene Blue, 4500, and 9030

Secondary Tests:

• Cyanide and Phenol Distillation
• Phosphorus
• pH
• Sample disposal/neutralization

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage sample workload to meet reporting deadlines.
• Upload and review results in EMT’s Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Quantify and qualify results based on analytical method and SOP.
• Report accurate and on-time data in Element
• Track and order supplies needed for your work in a timely fashion.
• Perform routine operation, maintenance, calibration, and trouble-shoot laboratory equipment.
• Prepare and properly label reagents and standards.
• Complete general laboratory paperwork in logbooks, maintenance books, standard books, bench sheets, etc.
• Properly dispose of samples according to the SOP.
• Clean and maintain laboratory equipment in good working order.
• Communicate to your manager the status of your workload as well as any data quality issues.
• Assist your manager with root cause investigations to determine the source of issues (Corrective Actions Reports) and implement corrective actions needed to resolve those issues.
• Other duties as determined by the department manager.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE POSITION

• Must be able to stand for 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.

PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related field preferred.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Word, Excel.
• Working knowledge of Element ™ LIMS or equivalent.
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
• Self-directed; goal and outcome driven.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to stand for 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

PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS:

• Bachelor’s degree in the sciences preferred. Coursework, particularly labs in chemistry, a strong benefit.
• Computer skills, including some proficiency in Excel preferred, and willingness to learn our Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Multi-tasking skills and enjoy a fast-paced work environment.

BENEFITS AND COMPENSATION
At Sterling Labs we value our employees and recognize them as the driving force behind our success. We strive to create a supporting and inclusive work environment. We know that well-being of our employees is directly related to their productivity, that is why we offer a comprehensive benefits packet for our full-time employees, that includes:

• Healthcare benefits: Medical, Dental and Vision insurances
• Financial planning: 401(k), Life insurance, Short-term and Long-term disability insurances.
• Work-Life Balance Benefits: Paid Time Off (including vacation, sick leave, and holidays).

$16.50 /hour to be paid biweekly with opportunity for overtime

EEO STATEMENT:
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Sterling Labs does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, citizenship, marital or domestic/civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or because of any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state or local law

Job Type: Full-time

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Safety equipment provided
• Vision insurance