Entry-Level VOA Prep Technician (Mon-Fri 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM) at Sterling Labs – Des Plaines, Illinois

The Environmental Laboratory Technician (ETL) prepares environmental samples to meet production and quality goals in the VOA department. The ETL is responsible for planning daily workflow, monitoring the quality of procedures and proper technique, and communicating issues and needs to the Team lead.

The ETL will perform tasks according to Sterling Labs SOPs and protocols in a safe manner, following honest and ethical behavior in all laboratory activities. The ETL will perform specific duties assigned by the VOA Team Lead to ensure that client service requests are met. The ETL must display motivation to see projects through completion to meet client expectations.

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.

PRIMARY DUTIES

VOA Prep

TASKS

• Perform routine operation, maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.
• Prepare samples, dilutions, and splits for analysis according to the SOP.
• Prepare and properly label reagents and standards
• Complete general laboratory paperwork in logbooks, maintenance books, standard books, bench sheets, etc.
• Properly dispose of samples in accordance with the SOP.
• Clean and maintain laboratory equipment in good working order.
• Communicate to your supervisor about the status of your workload as well as any data quality issues.
• Assist your supervisor with root cause investigations to determine the source of issues (Corrective Actions Reports) and implement corrective actions needed to resolve those issues.
• Other duties as determined by the department Team Lead.

PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS:

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related field preferred.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Word, Excel.
• Working knowledge of Element ™ LIMS or equivalent.
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
• Self-directed; goal and outcome driven.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE POSITION

• Must be able to stand for long periods of time.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds using correct and safe lifting techniques.
• Must be able to work in refrigerated storage areas for short periods of time.
• Must be able to wear all PPE required for the position.