Laboratory Technician

Texas Research Institute Austin, Inc.; Anaheim (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Texas Research Institute Austin, Inc. seeks a Direct Shear Technician in Anaheim, California. Your role involves preparing samples, conducting tests, and ensuring quality control. You will operate lab equipment and collaborate with team members while upholding safety protocols.

A High School Diploma or GED is required, alongside skills in laboratory operations and problem-solving. The company is committed to diversity in the workplace, providing equal opportunity for all applicants.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in operating laboratory equipment and performing basic calculations.
• The role may require physical exertion, such as lifting and moving heavy objects.
• Effective communication skills for documentation and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples for direct shear testing.
• Conduct direct shear tests following specified procedures.
• Document test procedures and results in a concise manner.

Skills

Operating laboratory equipment

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Mechanical Aptitude

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Key responsibilities

Test specimen preparation: Preparing samples for direct shear testing which may involve compacting of soil.

Operating and maintaining equipment: Setting up, calibrating, operating, and maintaining direct shear testing machines and other related lab equipment.

Performing tests: Conducting direct shear tests according to specified procedures and conditions (e.g., normal stress, conditions, and shearing rate).

Data collection and analysis: Monitoring and recording the shear force, vertical displacement, and horizontal displacement of the sample at regular intervals during the test.

Reporting: Documenting the test procedures, results, and observations in a clear and concise manner.

Quality control: Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of test results by following quality control procedures and adhering to industry standards.

Troubleshooting: Identifying and resolving any issues or malfunctions that may arise during the testing process or with the equipment.

Collaboration: Working effectively with team members to ensure the accuracy and timely completion of testing and reporting.

Safety: Following all safety protocols and maintaining a clean and organized work environment.

• Directly reporting to the Laboratory Supervisor.
• Performs quality analysis and control tests on incoming material samples, compares results against norms & standards, and assists in interpreting test results. Informs immediate supervisor and/or management of any discrepancy.
• Assists Laboratory or R&D Supervisor in performing necessary testing requirements.
• Maintains laboratory equipment to ensure the equipment is reliable.
• Cleans and maintains organized work area
• Assists in ensuring that control and instrumentation equipment are correctly and accurately calibrated.
• Provides administrative support for procurement activities.
• Performs other duties and functions assigned by the immediate supervisor from time to time.
• Must follow the QA and Safety Policy.

Requirements

Technical skills: Proficiency in operating laboratory equipment, using hand tools, and performing basic calculations.

Physical Stamina: The role may require physical exertion, such as lifting and moving heavy objects.

Attention to detail: Ensuring the accuracy of measurements, following procedures, and maintaining detailed records is crucial.

Reading and interpreting technical documents: Ability to read and understand specifications, test methods and safety guidelines.

Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills: Ability to diagnose and fix issues related to equipment or testing procedures.

Communication skills: Effective written and verbal communication skills for documentation, reporting, and collaborating with team members.

High School Diploma or GED: This is the minimum educational requirement for a direct shear technician.

Mechanical Aptitude: The ability to understand and work with machines and tools effectively.

Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Relevant to the Position

• The candidate shall have a minimum of secondary level education.
• Minimum of one year of work-related skill or experience in similar endeavor. Relevant experience in environmental projects is an advantage
• Attention to Detail: Performing tests requires exact measurements and a good eye for detail, or the results could be false.
• Dexterity: Lab techs work with their hands and will need dexterity to work with small samples and delicate lab equipment.
• Stamina: Lab technicians work long days on their feet, sometimes hunched over a workstation for long periods of time.
• Technical Skill: Lab techs need to understand complex lab machinery and computer programs used to conduct tests.
• Thoroughly knowledgeable in computer Microsoft applications, minimum of MS Excel
• Knowledgeable in physical and mechanical testing of Geosynthetic materials, in-plant sampling
• Able to lift up to 60 pounds of samples that requires tests
• Ability to follow instructions and laboratory procedures
• Ability to read and comprehend packaged instructions
• Passion and alignment with our mission, vision, values and operating principles
• Passion for working in a values based company in alignment with a learning organization
• Demonstrates a passion and responsibility for the consumer
• Exhibit a passion for the company’s Essence, Global Imperatives, and Corporate Direction
• Willingness to continually embrace personal and professional development

TRI Precision is an Equal Opportunity Employer and devoted to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status.