Entry-Level Laboratory Technician, Wet Chem - Solids, BTU & Flash Point (M-F 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM)

Sterling Labs; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare Benefits

Retirement & Insurance

PTO

Job summary

Sterling Labs in Des Plaines, IL is seeking an Environmental Laboratory Technician - Wet Chem (Solids, BTU & Flash Point) to prepare and analyze water, wastewater, soil, and waste samples in accordance with SOPs, delivering accurate results for clients.

You will perform gravimetric solids, ammonia and nitrite analyses, carbon fractions, BTU and closed-cup flash point tests, while maintaining instruments and inputting data into the LIMS for timely reporting.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, analyze, and document samples to meet client deadlines, using calibrated equipment and following SOPs.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory instruments daily to ensure reliable data.
• Create and label reagents and standards for accurate testing.
• Input results into Sterling Labs' LIMS and review data for quality and accuracy.
• Report findings in Element for client access and decision-making.
• Track inventory and order supplies to maintain uninterrupted operations.
• Dispose of samples safely per SOPs to comply with environmental standards.
• Clean and maintain equipment to ensure optimal performance and compliance.
• Communicate workload and data issues to the manager to resolve concerns efficiently.
• Support root cause investigations and corrective actions to uphold quality.
• Assist with other tasks as assigned to meet team goals.

Job description

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

• 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.

Job Summary

The Environmental Laboratory Technician - Wet Chem (Solids, BTU & Flash Point) is responsible for preparing and analyzing water, wastewater, soil, and waste samples in compliance with laboratory SOPs to deliver accurate and timely results to clients. This role performs gravimetric solids (TSS/VSS), colorimetric ammonia and nitrite, fraction of organic carbon, heat of combustion (BTU), and closed-cup flash point analyses, while managing sample workloads, calibrating instruments, and maintaining equipment to ensure high-quality data. Located in Des Plaines, IL, the position supports operational efficiency while ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Primary Tasks

• Bomb Prep and BTU (Heat of Combustion) by Oxygen Bomb Calorimetry, ASTM D240
• Total Suspended Solids (TSS) by SM 2540 D
• Volatile Suspended Solids (VSS) by SM 2540 E
• NH3 (Ammonia) by SM 4500-NH3
• NO2 (Nitrite) by Hach Method 8507 (Diazotization)
• Fraction of Organic Carbon (FOC) in Soils and Sediments
• Closed-Cup Flash Point (CCFP) by Pensky-Martens, EPA 1010 and ASTM D93

Secondary Tasks

• pH
• Sample Disposal/Neutralization

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, analyze, and document samples to meet client deadlines, using calibrated equipment and following SOPs.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory instruments daily to ensure reliable data.
• Create and label reagents and standards for accurate testing.
• Input results into Sterling Labs' LIMS and review data for quality and accuracy.
• Report findings in Element for client access and decision-making.
• Track inventory and order supplies to maintain uninterrupted operations.
• Dispose of samples safely per SOPs to comply with environmental standards.
• Clean and maintain equipment to ensure optimal performance and compliance.
• Communicate workload and data issues to the manager to resolve concerns efficiently.
• Support root cause investigations and corrective actions to uphold quality.
• Assist with other tasks as assigned to meet team goals.

Instruments Used

• Bomb Calorimeter
• Pensky-Martens Closed-Cup Flash Point Tester