Chemical Lab Technician, ICP & OES Metal Testing
Overview
You will own chemical analysis of metal products in an industrial lab, running ICP, OES, LECO, and density tests to certify materials. You will spend 90% of your day on instrumentation and 10% on sample prep, working alongside a senior chemist. The lab sits within a larger metals testing facility in Bellwood, IL, with a team that values precision and growth. You will take charge of instrument calibration, troubleshooting, and data accuracy from day one. This contract-to-hire role offers a clear path to permanent employment.
What You'll Do9
- 1Perform routine and specialized chemical tests on metal products using ICP, OES, LECO, and density equipment to certify material composition.
- 2Prepare metal samples for analysis by cutting, grinding, sanding, and polishing surfaces using industrial tools like saws and furnaces.
- 3Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot lab instruments, ensuring ICP and OES systems meet accuracy standards before each run.
- 4Follow written SOPs for every test method, documenting results in lab notebooks with full traceability.
- 5Calculate concentrations and interpret data to verify product compliance, flagging anomalies for senior review.
- 6Maintain lab cleanliness and organize work areas to keep the facility audit-ready and safe.
- 7Collaborate with team members on daily testing schedules while handling independent assignments.
- 8Adhere to all safety protocols when working with metal prep equipment, furnaces, and chemical reagents.
- 9Drive personal growth by seeking feedback and applying lessons to improve testing efficiency.
Requirements9
- 11+ years hands-on lab experience from academic or professional settings
- 2Basic proficiency with ICP or OES instrumentation
- 3Ability to follow detailed written and verbal test procedures without deviation
- 4Comfort operating mechanical tools like saws, grinders, and furnaces in an industrial environment
- 5Working knowledge of mathematical calculations for concentration and data verification
- 6Strong attention to detail with zero tolerance for documentation errors
- 7Demonstrated safety awareness in lab or industrial settings
- 8Bachelor’s degree in a science discipline preferred but not required
- 9Mechanical aptitude from shop, automotive, or construction hobbies is a plus
Salary Insight
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