Lab Technician Jobs in Illinois

The Lab Technician is responsible for assisting the Lab Manager with the analyzing and maintaining of all chemical baths to optimize performance as well as conducting various laboratory tests, experiments, and analyses to support research and development activities. This position’s precision and adherence to safety protocols will contribute to the accurate and reliable generation of data crucial to our product development and quality assurance processes. The hours for this position are Monday through Friday, 7:00am to 3:30pm with some overtime required. The salary range is $21 - $24 per hour depending on experience and education.

Who We Are

Since 1978, Bales Metal Surface Solutions has been providing high-quality polishing and plating services for the metalworking industry worldwide. We are a female family-owned company focused on helping people achieve success. Our team knows how to "Work, Win, Play, Repeat" and "Rise to the Challenge". We accomplish this by committing to supporting our teammates so together we can be successful, which is evidence of our tenure and low turnover. For more information, please visit our website at www.balesusa.com.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Assist in analyzing and maintaining chemical baths according to manufacturing specifications.
• Perform plating tank maintenance, additions and transfers.
• Update logbooks associated with chemicals used, stored, and waste.
• Maintain equipment used in the lab including but not limited to calibration, verify tank chemistry, etc.
• Participate in disposal of chemical and solid waste with outside vendors.
• Adhere to strict safety protocols and procedures in the handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals.
• Maintain zero discharge waste system.
• Drive forklift or use carts to distribute materials to proper departments.
• Provides overall leadership and support to the dept in the absence of the Lab Manager.
• Reads and accurately interprets shop paperwork; provides feedback on issues and changes.
• Maintain an organized and clean work area at all times including throughout the entire shop.
• Manage weekly chemicals.
• Maintain lab supplies inventory.

Position is very hands-on, work is performed primarily in a production/warehouse environment and involves being able to frequently lift, push, pull, carry and move up to 50 pounds.

Talents and Credentials:

• High school graduate or GED.
• Bachelor's Degree or higher in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related field strongly preferred.
• 1 to 2 years related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, preferably in metal coatings or related industry in a manufacturing environment.
• Certified Electro Finisher (CEF) and RCRA certification is a plus but not required.
• Must be able to speak, read and write in English.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• High level of work accuracy and attention to detail.
• Solid knowledge of chemistry.
• Solid knowledge in mathematics.
• Strong computer skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite & Google Suite; Epicor a plus.

Benefits And Perks:

• Eligible from the 1st day of the month following date of hire: Medical, Dental, Vision, LIFE & AD&D, STD, LTD and EAP.
• PTO, Holiday and Birthday Pay.
• Education, Training and Tuition Reimbursement.
• Eligibility to participate in our 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Employee Recognition Programs
• Fun events and activities.

At Bales we value people and are committed to the long-term success of every single team member. We offer a competitive salary, continuing education, and a substantial benefits package to show how much we appreciate our team.

Bales is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $21.00 - $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person