Laboratory Technician 1

alsglobal; Valparaiso (IN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

ALS is seeking an entry-level Laboratory Technician I to support inorganic environmental testing across soil, water, wastewater, and related matrices. You will perform routine preparation, testing, and data documentation, following SOPs and QA/QC guidelines, while ensuring data integrity and timely results.

The role emphasizes adherence to safety protocols and accurate record-keeping, with growth opportunities into higher technician levels as you gain experience in an ISO 17025 environment.

Qualifications

• Associate degree preferred; equivalent laboratory experience considered.
• Basic understanding of chemistry laboratory techniques and principles.
• Ability to follow written procedures and work instructions accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and organization.
• Proficiency with basic computer applications and data entry.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced lab environment.

Responsibilities

• Receive, log, label, and organize environmental samples for processing and analysis.
• Perform routine inorganic sample preparation procedures (digestion, extraction, filtration, drying, weighing, preservation).
• Prepare samples for analysis using EPA, ASTM, Standard Methods, and SOPs.
• Conduct routine inorganic analyses under supervision.
• Prepare reagents, standards, calibration solutions, and QC samples.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation per SOPs.
• Document analytical activities, observations, and results in LIMS and logbooks.
• Review QC data to ensure compliance with acceptance criteria.
• Maintain chain-of-custody and proper sample custody.
• Dispose of laboratory waste per regulations and keep the lab organized.

Skills

Attention to detail

Data entry

Teamwork

SOP compliance

Lab safety

Education

Associate degree in Chemistry or related

Tools

LIMS

Job description

At ALS, we encourage you to dream big.

When you join us, you'll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future.

The Laboratory Technician I is responsible for performing routine sample preparation, analytical testing, data documentation, and laboratory support functions in accordance with established standard operating procedures (SOPs), quality assurance requirements, and safety protocols. This position primarily supports inorganic environmental testing and provides accurate and timely analytical results for soil, water, wastewater, sludge, and other environmental matrices.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Receive, log, label, and organize environmental samples for processing and analysis.
• Perform routine inorganic sample preparation procedures, including digestion, extraction, filtration, drying, homogenization, weighing, and preservation.
• Prepare samples for analysis using EPA, ASTM, Standard Methods, and laboratory SOPs.
• Conduct routine inorganic analyses under supervision.
• Prepare reagents, standards, calibration solutions, and quality control samples.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation and equipment according to established procedures.
• Perform daily instrument checks, calibrations, and routine maintenance activities.
• Accurately document analytical activities, observations, and results in laboratory information management systems (LIMS), bench sheets, and logbooks.
• Review quality control data to ensure compliance with laboratory acceptance criteria.
• Maintain sample custody and chain-of-custody documentation throughout the analytical process.
• Dispose of laboratory waste in accordance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, and inventory of supplies and consumables.
• Assist senior analysts and laboratory management with method implementation, troubleshooting, and process improvements.
• Meet productivity, quality, and turnaround time expectations while maintaining data integrity.

Quality and Compliance Responsibilities

• Follow all laboratory SOPs, QA/QC requirements, and accreditation standards.
• Adhere to EPA, state regulatory, and client-specific analytical requirements.
• Participate in proficiency testing, corrective actions, and internal quality initiatives as assigned.

  Qualifications

  • Associate degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, or related scientific field preferred; equivalent laboratory experience may be considered.
  • Basic understanding of chemistry laboratory techniques and scientific principles.
  • Ability to follow written procedures and work instructions accurately.
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Proficiency with basic computer applications and data entry.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced laboratory environment.

  Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
  • Ability to perform repetitive motions including pipetting, weighing, and sample handling.
  • Ability to work safely with acids, bases, and other laboratory chemicals.
  • Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, gloves, and laboratory coats.

  Preferred Skills

  • Previous environmental laboratory experience.
  • Familiarity with inorganic analytical methods and environmental regulations.
  • Experience using LIMS software.
  • Knowledge of ISO 17025 quality requirements and laboratory accreditation programs.

  Career Progression

  This position serves as an entry-level laboratory role designed to develop technical competency in environmental inorganic testing and provide advancement opportunities to Laboratory Technician II, Analyst, or specialized technical positions.

  Working at ALS

  The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world.

  Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognise excellence.

  At ALS, you'll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential. We invest in our people with programs and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us.

  We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.

  Everyone Matters

  ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued.

  Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, military or veteran status, gender, age, disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information and any o