Lab Technician

The Laboratory Technician’s job is technical in nature. The technician must have a working knowledge of chemistry, statistics and mathematics as well as 12 hours of college chemistry. A good knowledge of the operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment is also required.

The technician must also be familiar with OSHA, EPA, and DEQ regulations as they apply to laboratory safety and waste management. Some knowledge of plant processes and sample recognition is required.

Certification by the state of Louisiana as a First Responder, continuing education, and emergency response training is also a requirement.

Laboratory Technicians are encouraged to expand their job knowledge by attending continuing educational programs and training in “best practices”.

Accountability:

• Accept personal responsibility as a safety conscious worker, not only working safely, but looking out for the safety of fellow workers. Recognize and report hazards. Wear proper PPE and follow all safety practices and policies. Participate in quarterly plant wide as well as monthly laboratory safety meetings.
• Follow ISO 9000 standards as required.
• Follow accepted methodology to analyze samples as required in a timely manner utilizing available resources and training.
• Maintain training proficiency.
• Participate in First Responder drills and respond to emergency events.
• Communicate variances to Production, Shift Leader and Safety, when and where appropriate.
• Make prompt and accurate shift relief.
• Work overtime as required.
• Maintain work area and laboratory space in a clean and organized manner.
• Present solutions for eliminating obstacles to the safe, efficient, and effective operation of the laboratory.
• Use existing databases and laboratory systems to recommend innovative proposals for continuous laboratory improvements.
• Use proper reporting systems for the tracking of unusual or unscheduled analyses.
• Follow laboratory procedures for the proper segregation and disposal of laboratory waste.
• Work in harmony with others.

Physical Requirements:

The Lab Technician must be able to do the following:

• Work 12-hour rotating shifts.
• Employ visual-perception and fine-motor skills for typical laboratory activities.
• Stand/walk for 2 hour periods without sitting and commonly for longer periods as the work load requires.
• Frequently lift 25 pounds when handling waste containers.
• Occasionally move a 55-gallon drum using a drum handler.
• Infrequently climb 1 flight of stairs for building maintenance.
• Drive a forklift on infrequent occasions.
• Visually determine color differences, particularly in colorimetric titrations.