Entry-Level Laboratory Technician – BOD & COD (Sun-Thur 10 AM -6:30 PM) at Sterling Labs – Des Plaines, Illinois

About Us

Sterling Labs (Environmental Monitoring & Technologies, LLC) is a DoD, NELAP, ANAB, and AIHA-accredited environmental laboratory providing high-integrity analytical data through state-of-the-art technology and validated testing methodologies. For more than 40 years, our work has supported initiatives that protect human health and the environment.

Our success is built on client partnerships and scientific excellence. We collaborate with environmental consultants, engineering firms, and government agencies to deliver reliable, timely analytical results that support regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship. From wastewater testing in the greater Chicago area to nationwide projects with Department of Defense partners, our commitment to quality and innovation continues to drive our growth.

When you join Sterling Labs, you become part of a team of scientists, professionals, and technical specialists who share one purpose:

WE PRESERVE THE PLANET TO PROTECT THE FUTURE

This purpose shapes our culture, drives our decisions, and guides how we serve our clients and support one another. We believe that meaningful progress comes from integrity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improvement—principles that are reflected in our core values.

Our Core Values

• Integrity in Everything We Do -We act with honesty, transparency, and accountability.
• Customer Focused - We prioritize our clients’ needs and value their feedback.
• We are never satisfied - We seek better ways to serve our clients and support our employees through innovation and growth.

At Sterling Labs, we know our employees are the foundation of our success. We strive to provide a supportive, inclusive, and growth-oriented workplace where every individual is encouraged to learn, innovate, and advance.

Employee Benefits

Sterling Labs offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and well-being of our full-time employees:

• Healthcare Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, and short- and long-term disability coverage
• Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)

Equal Employment Opportunity

Sterling Labs is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, sex, age, disability, marital or family status, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Recruitment Notice

Sterling Labs does not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party agencies. Please do not forward resumes to company email addresses or employees. Sterling Labs is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited submissions.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Environmental Laboratory Technician conducts sample preparation, digestion, and analysis following standardized methods and SOPs. They maintain laboratory equipment, document results in LIMS, and support data quality.

SCHEDULE

Sunday-Thursday 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION

• Monitor inventory and notify the supervisor of supply needs to ensure uninterrupted laboratory operations.
• Perform routine operation, calibration, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting of laboratory instrumentation in accordance with SOPs.
• Prepare, label, and document reagents, calibration standards, and quality control solutions.
• Complete general laboratory paperwork in logbooks, maintenance books, standard books, bench sheets, etc.
• Report results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Properly dispose of samples according to the SOPs.
• Maintain the cleanliness and functionality of laboratory equipment and workspaces to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
• Proactively communicate workload status, data discrepancies, or potential issues to the department manager.
• Participate in root cause investigations, including Corrective Action Reports (CARs), and assist with implementing corrective and preventive actions.
• Communicate sample and work order status using the Work Status Report in Element 7.
• Other duties as determined by the department manager.

TESTING RESPONSIBILITIES:

Primary responsibilities

BOD and 4500 pH

Secondary responsibilities

COD & solids tests (p-moist, paint filter, TDS, etc).

INSTRUMENTATION

Auto-pipettes, laboratory balances, thermometers, paint filter, YSI oxygen meters, SEAL segmented flow analyzer, HACH spectrophotometer, automated flash point apparatus, BOD automated system.

PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or a related scientific discipline preferred.
• Proficiency with standard office software, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), such as Element™ or comparable platforms, is preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivated and results-oriented, with the ability to manage tasks independently and meet deadlines.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE POSITION

• Prolonged periods of standing while performing sample preparation, digestion, and instrumental analyses.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle pipettes, balances, glassware, and laboratory instrumentation with precision.
• Must be able to lift, carry, and move reagent containers, sample batches, and laboratory equipment weighing up to 30 pounds using proper and safe lifting techniques.
• Occasional bending, reaching, and stooping to set up instruments, retrieve supplies, or perform maintenance on laboratory equipment.
• Must be able to visually read meniscus lines, color changes, and digital instrument readings accurately; specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Must be able to work safely around acids, bases, and other hazardous laboratory chemicals while wearing required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coats, and safety glasses.
• Ability to maintain concentration and attention to detail during repetitive testing and data entry tasks.
• Must be able to communicate clearly and professionally with supervisors and coworkers regarding data quality, workload, and safety issues.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.