Position Summary We are seeking a detail-oriented Laboratory & Production Technician to support both quality control and production operations at our waste recycling facility. This position combines laboratory analysis (approximately 50%) with production support (approximately 50%) to ensure incoming waste streams are properly characterized, recycling processes operate efficiently, and reclaimed salt products consistently meet quality specifications. The Laboratory & Production Technician will perform routine chemical analyses, operate and monitor production equipment, maintain accurate records, assist with process operations, and uphold safe laboratory and manufacturing practices while supporting continuous process improvement. This role will report to engineering. The ideal candidate has strong laboratory fundamentals, mechanical aptitude, excellent attention to detail, and a commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork. Key Responsibilities Laboratory Responsibilities (Approximately 50%) Sample Analysis - Receive, log, label, and prepare incoming waste and reclaimed product samples.
- Conduct quantitative analyses using standardized laboratory methods.
- Verify analytical results and identify any out-of-specification conditions.
- Communicate analytical findings to production and engineering personnel.
Laboratory Operations - Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory instrumentation.
- Prepare reagents, standards, and calibration solutions.
- Maintain laboratory cleanliness and organization.
- Ensure laboratory consumables and chemicals are adequately stocked.
- Dispose of laboratory waste in accordance with environmental and safety regulations.
Quality Assurance - Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and electronic records.
- Perform routine quality control checks and instrument verification.
- Follow written standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Assist in developing and improving laboratory procedures and documentation.
- Support internal audits and quality initiatives.
Production Responsibilities (Approximately 50%) Process Operations - Operate chemical recycling equipment according to established operating procedures.
- Receive, transfer, and process incoming waste materials.
- Monitor production equipment and process conditions including temperatures, levels, flow rates, and mixing operations.
- Collect in-process samples for laboratory analysis.
- Package reclaimed salt products for storage and shipment.
- Complete equipment startup, shutdown, and cleaning procedures.
Equipment & Facility Operations - Operate pumps, valves, transfer systems, and other production equipment.
- Perform routine equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance.
- Maintain production records and batch documentation.
- Report equipment malfunctions or process deviations promptly.
- Assist with inventory management of raw materials, chemicals, and production supplies.
- Maintain housekeeping standards throughout the production facility.
Safety - Work safely with highly alkaline and oxidizing chemical solutions.
- Properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Follow all chemical hygiene, hazardous material handling, and environmental procedures.
- Follow all production safety procedures while operating processing equipment.
- Report equipment issues, unsafe conditions, or process deviations promptly.
- Participate in safety meetings and continuous improvement initiatives.
Equipment The Laboratory & Production Technician will routinely operate equipment including: - Ion Chromatography Unit
- Automatic Titration Systems
- Analytical Scale
- Moisture Analyzer
The technician will also routinely operate production equipment including: - Pumps and transfer systems
- Mixing and processing equipment
- Filtration and material handling equipment
- Packaging equipment
Required Qualifications - Associate degree or technical diploma in Chemistry, Chemical Technology, Laboratory Science, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related science is an asset.
- Good computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and the ability to accurately enter, manage, and retrieve laboratory and production data.
- Experience with analytical instrumentation is desirable.
- Good mechanical aptitude and ability to operate industrial processing equipment.
- Ability to follow written procedures with a high level of accuracy.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within both laboratory and production environments.
Preferred Experience One to three years of laboratory, manufacturing, or industrial processing experience preferred. Experience with one or more of the following is considered an asset: - Ion chromatography
- Automatic titration
- Wet chemistry techniques
- Quality control laboratory operations
- Industrial chemical processing
- Chemical manufacturing or recycling
- Batch processing operations
- Pumps and fluid transfer systems
- Basic equipment troubleshooting
Desired Skills - Excellent attention to detail
- Strong organizational skills
- Good laboratory practices and housekeeping
- Accurate record keeping
- Ability to prioritize multiple tasks
- Mechanical aptitude for laboratory and production equipment
- Effective verbal and written communication
- Ability to work independently and as part of a production team
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Commitment to continuous improvement
Physical Requirements - Standing and walking for extended periods.
- Lifting laboratory supplies, sample containers, and production materials up to approximately 50 lb (23 kg).
- Working around laboratory and chemical processing equipment.
- Wearing required PPE including gloves, safety glasses, face shields, chemical-resistant clothing, and other protective equipment as required.
- Ability to climb stairs and safely work within an industrial production environment.
Working Environment This position supports both the laboratory and production operations of an industrial waste recycling facility. The Laboratory & Production Technician routinely works with chemical waste streams, reclaimed salt products, laboratory instrumentation, and industrial processing equipment. Success in this role requires safe work practices, precision, adaptability, and the ability to transition effectively between laboratory analysis and production operations while maintaining high standards of quality and environmental compliance.
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