Chemistry Lab Technician Job DescriptionThis Chemistry Lab Technician role focuses on supporting a high-volume contract testing laboratory that primarily serves the milk and dairy industry. The core function of the position is to register samples into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), print and label sample sets, and organize them for timely delivery to the appropriate chemistry laboratories for testing. The technician plays a key role in maintaining efficient sample flow, supporting wet chemistry preparation, and ensuring that laboratory supplies, equipment, and work areas remain organized, compliant, and safe. This is a Level 2 role within a structured lab technician career ladder that offers clear opportunities for advancement, additional responsibilities, and skill development, including training on HPLC at the Tech III level.Responsibilities
- Register incoming samples into the LIMS accurately and efficiently, ensuring all required information is captured.
- Print and label sets of samples and organize them for delivery to the appropriate laboratories based on required testing.
- Deliver samples to the relevant laboratories for testing and retrieve samples for preparation or retesting as needed.
- Prepare samples for HPLC testing and train to run and process HPLC analyses at the Tech III level under guidance.
- Perform balance work, including weighing samples accurately for various analytical tests.
- Conduct wet chemistry procedures such as titrations, fat testing, and solids testing in accordance with established methods.
- Perform general sample preparation, including pH testing and other routine pre-analysis tasks.
- Stock and order laboratory supplies to ensure adequate inventory and minimize interruptions to testing activities.
- Sterilize and wash glassware to maintain clean and ready-to-use equipment for laboratory staff.
- Test fume hoods and other ventilation systems for appropriate airflow to support a safe working environment.
- Open parcels of samples and laboratory supplies, verify contents, and input them into appropriate systems for tracking and use.
- Register and deliver reagents and other laboratory supplies to the correct laboratories and storage areas.
- Complete core method training and sample registration training to fully understand laboratory process flow and support it accurately.
- Follow applicable standard operating procedures (SOPs) and adhere to GMP, GLP, USDA, and quality standards for laboratory environments.
- Apply 5S methodology to organize and maintain inventory, laboratory supplies, documents, and work areas in a clean and efficient manner.
- Use and store laboratory equipment and chemicals safely, following all safety guidelines and best practices.
- Participate in team meetings and communicate effectively about deadlines, testing schedules, and completion timelines.
- Perform any additional tasks required to support efficient laboratory operations and maintain a smooth workflow across multiple labs.
Essential Skills
- High school diploma with 1 year or more of laboratory or sample registration experience, OR a 2-year or 4-year degree in a scientific discipline with willingness to work as a Lab Assistant for 6 or more months.
- Foundational knowledge of chemistry and wet chemistry techniques, including titration and basic analytical procedures.
- Experience in a laboratory environment performing tasks such as sample handling, preparation, and basic testing.
- Ability to perform sample registration accurately in systems such as LIMS or similar data management tools.
- Strong organizational skills to manage high sample volumes and maintain orderly workflows and inventories.
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures and adhere to GMP, GLP, USDA, and quality standards.
- Capability to safely handle laboratory equipment and chemicals, including proper storage and usage.
- Comfort working in a fast-paced environment with high throughput, handling approximately 50 samples per shift.
- Effective communication skills to coordinate with team members on testing deadlines and priorities.
- Physical ability to be on ones feet for extended periods and manage multiple tasks throughout the shift.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Bachelors degree in a scientific field is preferred for long-term advancement, as progression beyond certain technician levels requires a BA/BS.
- Experience with analytical chemistry techniques and titration is beneficial.
- Exposure to sample registration systems and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is advantageous.
- Interest in developing skills in HPLC, with the opportunity to train and grow toward Tech III-level responsibilities.
- Familiarity with 5S or other continuous improvement and organizational methodologies is a plus.
- Motivation to progress within a structured lab technician career ladder (Lab Assistant, Tech 1, 2, 3, 4) and take on increased responsibility and troubleshooting over time.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in labeling, documentation, and sample handling.
Work EnvironmentThe role is based in a contract testing laboratory that primarily supports the milk and dairy industry and operates at a high throughput, averaging approximately 200 samples per shift (around 50 samples per person). The position is situated within the Chemistry Department, which consists of three main laboratories, and this role focuses on supporting organizational and preparatory activities across all of them rather than performing the primary testing. The environment is fast-paced and highly process-driven, with a strong emphasis on quality, compliance with GMP, GLP, and USDA standards, and adherence to SOPs. The work involves regular use of laboratory equipment such as balances, HPLC instruments (for training and support), pH meters, and fume hoods, as well as routine handling of chemicals and glassware. The standard shift runs from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with potential opportunities for overtime during the week and on weekends depending on sample volume and operational needs. Team members regularly participate in meetings to coordinate testing schedules, discuss deadlines, and ensure smooth workflow across the labs. The culture supports growth and advancement within a defined lab technician structure, offering opportunities for increased responsibility and career development for those who meet educational and performance expectations. Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Saint Paul, MN. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Saint Paul, MN. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 27, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Saint Paul,MN.About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
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