Entry-Level Laboratory Technician – BOD & COD (Sun-Thur 10 AM 630 PM)
Des Plaines, IL - USA
Job Summary
About Us
Sterling Labs (Environmental Monitoring & Technologies LLC) is a DoD NELAP ANAB and AIHA-accredited environmental laboratory providing high-integrity analytical data through state-of-the-art technology and validated testing methodologies. For more than 40 years our work has supported initiatives that protect human health and the environment.
Our success is built on client partnerships and scientific excellence. We collaborate with environmental consultants engineering firms and government agencies to deliver reliable timely analytical results that support regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship. From wastewater testing in the greater Chicago area to nationwide projects with Department of Defense partners our commitment to quality and innovation continues to drive our growth.
When you join Sterling Labs you become part of a team of scientists professionals and technical specialists who share one purpose:
WE PRESERVE THE PLANET TO PROTECT THE FUTURE
This purpose shapes our culture drives our decisions and guides how we serve our clients and support one another. We believe that meaningful progress comes from integrity collaboration and a shared commitment to improvementprinciples that are reflected in our core values.
Our Core Values
- Integrity in Everything We Do -We act with honesty transparency and accountability.
- Customer Focused - We prioritize our clients needs and value their feedback.
- We are never satisfied - We seek better ways to serve our clients and support our employees through innovation and growth.
At Sterling Labs we know our employees are the foundation of our success. We strive to provide a supportive inclusive and growth-oriented workplace where every individual is encouraged to learn innovate and advance.
Employee Benefits
Sterling Labs offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health financial security and well-being of our full-time employees:
- Healthcare Benefits: Medical dental and vision coverage
- Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
- Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off (vacation sick leave and holidays)
Equal Employment Opportunity
Sterling Labs is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion creed national origin citizenship ancestry sex age disability marital or family status pregnancy genetic information sexual orientation gender identity or expression veteran or military status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal state or local law.
Recruitment Notice
Sterling Labs does not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party agencies. Please do not forward resumes to company email addresses or employees. Sterling Labs is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited submissions.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Environmental Laboratory Technician conducts sample preparation digestion and analysis following standardized methods and SOPs. They maintain laboratory equipment document results in LIMS and support data quality.
SCHEDULE
Sunday-Thursday 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION
- Monitor inventory and notify the supervisor of supply needs to ensure uninterrupted laboratory operations.
- Perform routine operation calibration maintenance and basic troubleshooting of laboratory instrumentation in accordance with SOPs.
- Prepare label and document reagents calibration standards and quality control solutions.
- Complete general laboratory paperwork in logbooks maintenance books standard books bench sheets etc.
- Report results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
- Properly dispose of samples according to the SOPs.
- Maintain the cleanliness and functionality of laboratory equipment and workspaces to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
- Proactively communicate workload status data discrepancies or potential issues to the department manager.
- Participate in root cause investigations including Corrective Action Reports (CARs) and assist with implementing corrective and preventive actions.
- Communicate sample and work order status using the Work Status Report in Element 7.
- Other duties as determined by the department manager.
TESTING RESPONSIBILITIES:
Primary responsibilities
BOD and 4500 pH
Secondary responsibilities
COD & solids tests (p-moist paint filter TDS etc).
INSTRUMENTATION
Auto-pipettes laboratory balances thermometers paint filter YSI oxygen meters SEAL segmented flow analyzer HACH spectrophotometer automated flash point apparatus BOD automated system.
PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS
- Bachelors degree in Chemistry Environmental Science or a related scientific discipline preferred.
- Proficiency with standard office software including Microsoft Word Excel and Outlook.
- Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) such as Element or comparable platforms is preferred.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Self-motivated and results-oriented with the ability to manage tasks independently and meet deadlines.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE POSITION
- Prolonged periods of standing while performing sample preparation digestion and instrumental analyses.
- Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle pipettes balances glassware and laboratory instrumentation with precision.
- Must be able to lift carry and move reagent containers sample batches and laboratory equipment weighing up to 30 pounds using proper and safe lifting techniques.
- Occasional bending reaching and stooping to set up instruments retrieve supplies or perform maintenance on laboratory equipment.
- Must be able to visually read meniscus lines color changes and digital instrument readings 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 bases and other hazardous laboratory chemicals while wearing required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves lab coats and safety glasses.
- Ability to maintain concentration and attention to detail during repetitive testing and data entry tasks.
- Must be able to communicate clearly and professionally with supervisors and coworkers regarding data quality workload and safety issues.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Required Experience:
Junior IC
About Company
Sterling Labs is the leading environmental laboratory in the Chicago Loop. We offer nationwide availability, the most up-to-date accreditations and certifications, accurate results and unbeatable customer service.