Entry-Level Laboratory Technician, TCLP (Tuesday - Saturday 6:00 AM - 2:00 PM)

Position Overview

The Laboratory Technician in TCLP will be responsible for conducting a variety of laboratory tests and analyses to support environmental testing. This role involves a significant focus on TCLP analysis, utilizing established laboratory 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.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment (e.g., pH meters, scales, thermometers, auto-titrators, tumblers, filters, and fume hoods), and troubleshoot as necessary.
• 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. 

Primary Tests: Drinking Water Screens, Metals Digestions, Turbidity

Secondary Tests: TCLP and pH  

Equipment and Instruments Used

XRF, grinder, pH meters, scales, thermometers, auto titrator, tumbler, filters, fume hoods.

Qualifications

• 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.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of standing while preparing, filtering, and analyzing solid and soil samples.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle glassware, pipettes, filters, and laboratory instruments with precision.
• Must be able to lift, carry, and move sample containers, reagents, and laboratory equipment weighing up to 25 pounds using proper and safe lifting techniques.
• Occasional bending, reaching, and stooping to access tumblers, fume hoods, and storage shelves.
• Must be able to visually inspect samples, measure meniscus levels, and read instrument displays accurately; specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Must be able to work safely around acids, solvents, and other hazardous laboratory chemicals while wearing required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coats, safety glasses, and hearing protection when working in high-noise areas or near operating tumblers.
• Ability to maintain focus and attention to detail during repetitive sample handling and data recording tasks.
• Must be able to communicate clearly and professionally with coworkers and supervisors regarding workload, safety, and data quality.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.