Laboratory Technician Job Description

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN SUMMARY OF FUNCTIONS

The Laboratory Technician assists chemists and chemical engineers in the design, development, testing, and manufacture of the organization’s products.

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Helps create new chemical products and finds new ways to make chemicals from different starting materials. Sets up and conducts tests on chemical processes and products that are being developed or improved.
• Helps with experiments by taking measurements, making computations, and tabulating and analyzing the results. Uses computers to create reports portraying results of tests.
• Keeps a detailed laboratory log, dating, and recording all tests and results.
• Performs weekly safety-checks of fire-extinguishing equipment, eyewash stations, and shower stations. Attends safety meetings as required.
• Creates and sends out product samples as needed.
• Sets up ongoing quality-control testing of various samples and records test results for analysis by chemists and/or chemical engineers.

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

Reports to the Engineering Manager. Works with chemists, chemical engineers, and other laboratory technicians.

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN QUALIFICATIONS

A high school diploma plus two years of related college training is required. Both mental and manual skills are utilized, and patience and attention to detail are necessary.

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Ability to communicate orally with management and other co-workers is crucial. Regular use of the telephone and e-mail for communication may be required. Sitting or standing for extended periods are common. Hearing and vision within normal ranges is essential for normal conversations, to receive ordinary information and to prepare or inspect documents.

Heavy lifting is not expected. Exertion of up to 20 lbs. of force occasionally may be required.  Good manual dexterity for the use of common office and laboratory equipment.

Good reasoning ability is required to solve a wide range of scientific problems. Able to apply statistical calculations, analysis of variance, correlation techniques, and sampling theory as well as algebra, linear equations, and other analytics as required. Able to understand and utilize technical reports to conduct business.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The job is performed indoors in a traditional laboratory setting. Exposure to chemicals and laboratory agents is expected.  Protective safety clothing, goggles, gloves, facemasks, or hat are required as needed. Activities include extended periods of sitting or standing and extensive work mixing chemicals, conducting experiments, and using laboratory equipment.