Laboratory Technician - Organic Extractions (Sun-Thu 9:00 AM-5:30 PM)

Schedule: Sun-Thu 9:00 AM-5:30 PM

For the training period, the days and hours will be Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM -5:30 PM.

WHY US? 

Sterling Labs invests in the success of our team. We are seeking highly motivated individuals who want to invest in their skill sets and careers, be rewarded for their initiative, and thrive in a collaborative environment. Our analytical data has a tremendous impact on protecting human health and the environment. We value teamwork, continuous improvement, 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 clients’ needs for 36 years. We are a growth-oriented organization that prioritizes our clients. 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 Laboratory Technician for Organic Extractions is responsible for performing a range of laboratory tasks, including preparation, analysis, and testing of soil and water samples, following standard operating procedures (SOPs) and laboratory methods. 

Key Responsibilities

• Track laboratory supplies needed for successful test runs.
• Adhere to safety protocols to maintain a safe working environment.
• Maintain and clean laboratory instruments, equipment, and glassware following SOPs.
• Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of lab equipment.
• Maintain process parameters, identify anomalies, and troubleshoot equipment as needed.
• Record data in Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) – Element 7.
• Complete and maintain laboratory records, including logbooks, maintenance books, and bench sheets.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative analyses of water and soil samples for environmental testing (e.g., Semi-Volatiles, TPH, PCBs, Pesticides, and Herbicides).
• Collaborate with lab analysts for further organics analysis.
• Safely dispose of samples according to SOPs. 
• Perform additional duties as assigned.
• Specific Duties

General Extractions Duties

• Prepare, digest, and analyze soil and water samples, ensuring consistency with Sterling Labs’ SOPs.
• Use laboratory scales and manual pipettes for sample weighing and liquid transfer.
• Read meniscus lines on glassware and perform accurate spiking of samples using wire trawls. 
• Utilize various equipment such as turbovaps, burners, nitrogen evaporation to concentrate and extract samples from soil and water.

Soil (58%)

• Utilize sonicators for soil extractions for SVOC and TPH
• Utilize lab microwaves for extracting herbicides, pesticides, and PCBs

Waters (42%)

• Operate separatory funnel shakers for water sample extraction for further SVOC, TPH, PCBs, Pesticides and Herbicides analysis 
• Operate centrifuges for emulsion separation

Equipment and Instruments Used

Lab Scales, Fume hoods, Centrifuge, Funnel shakers, Wire trawl, Turbovaps, Burners, Nitrogen evaporation, Pipettes

 
BENEFITS & COMPENSATION Understanding that employee well-being is essential to performance, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees, including:

• Healthcare Coverage – Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Financial Protection – 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Work-Life Balance – Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays 

Compensation: This is an entry-level role, compensated at $17.25 per hour, paid biweekly, with opportunities for overtime. 

Requirements:

• 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:

• 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.