Job Title: Lab Technician
Job Description
The Lab Technician tests production batches using defined methods, evaluates in-spec and out-of-spec results, and ensures products meet or exceed customer quality requirements. This role interprets test data and historical trends, provides clear adjustment instructions to production personnel, and supports the overall efficiency and safety of the laboratory. The technician maintains accurate electronic batch records, supports quality and safety systems, and contributes to continuous improvement of standard operating procedures.
Responsibilities
- Test production batches according to specific written testing methods and accurately document all results.
- Interpret test results and historical data to verify that products meet or exceed customer quality requirements.
- Approve batches only after confirming that all tests are complete and results meet specifications before the next production process.
- Enter all batch data into the electronic batch records system in a timely and accurate manner.
- Generate required paperwork and documentation in accordance with customer specifications.
- Gather and send customer samples as required, ensuring proper labeling and documentation.
- Follow all standard technical procedures while exercising sound judgment and initiative to complete work with minimal supervision.
- Perform raw material testing when necessary and complete associated documentation in accordance with test methods.
- Gather, stock, and manage the product retain area to ensure proper storage and traceability of retains.
- Use appropriate computer systems and laboratory software to support effective testing and data management.
- Determine disposition of non-compliant finished goods, including first case/last case evaluations, and document decisions.
- Place non-conforming materials on hold as needed and communicate status to relevant departments.
- Support quality management systems and safety systems by following established policies, procedures, and guidelines.
- Maintain inventory of laboratory supplies, restock items upon receipt, and request replenishment when levels are low.
- Maintain laboratory housekeeping standards and clean all test equipment regularly to ensure a safe and organized work area.
- Adhere to all safety requirements and practices associated with the job and laboratory environment.
- Identify and communicate product issues to other departments, including production and quality, as needed.
- Review batch slips for completeness and accuracy before processing or approval.
- Create, maintain, and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the Quality Department to meet internal and external requirements.
- Assist in training other lab technicians as needed by demonstrating procedures and sharing best practices.
- Perform wet chemistry tests, titrations, inspections, and other analytical procedures as required for quality control.
- Operate and maintain laboratory instruments such as viscometers, spectrometers, pH meters, and gas chromatography (GC) equipment.
- Contribute to a team-oriented environment by supporting colleagues, sharing workload, and being flexible in performing multiple tasks.
Essential Skills
- At least 1 year of laboratory-based experience performing material testing.
- High school diploma or GED.
- Ability to see color, with or without reasonable accommodation, to support accurate product evaluation.
- Ability and willingness to work overtime, with or without reasonable accommodation, based on production and testing needs.
- Experience in quality control testing within a laboratory setting.
- Familiarity with chemistry concepts and laboratory practices.
- Hands-on experience with laboratory testing methods, including material testing and inspection.
- Ability to follow written testing methods and standard operating procedures accurately.
- Proficiency in using laboratory instruments such as viscometers, spectrometers, pH meters, and other QC equipment.
- Experience performing wet chemistry techniques and titrations.
- Ability to utilize computer systems and electronic batch record systems for data entry and documentation.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in recording and interpreting test data.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision while exercising good judgment and initiative.
- Strong communication skills to effectively convey product issues and testing results to production and other departments.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience working in a paint, coatings, or chemical manufacturing environment.
- Familiarity with quality management systems and safety systems in a manufacturing or laboratory setting.
- Experience creating, maintaining, and updating standard operating procedures (SOPs) for quality departments.
- Expereince in GMP or other structured quality control environments.
- Experience using gas chromatography (GC) and related analytical techniques.
- Comfort working with multiple laboratory tools and technologies, including viscometers, spectrometers, and pH measurement equipment.
- Ability to train and mentor other lab technicians by sharing knowledge and best practices.
- Demonstrated ability to manage inventory of laboratory supplies and maintain organized retain areas.
- Interest in long-term career growth within a large national organization with opportunities to move between locations.
- Motivation to contribute to a collaborative, team-focused laboratory culture.
Work Environment
The laboratory operates within a paint manufacturing environment where you will work closely with production teams and another technician on your shift. The setting can be dusty and dirty at times, and you should be comfortable working around paint and related materials, including the possibility of getting paint on clothing or equipment. The lab team maintains a laid-back yet highly collaborative atmosphere, with a strong team mentality in which individuals wear multiple hats and support one another as needed. You will use a variety of laboratory instruments and technologies, such as viscometers, spectrometers, pH meters, gas chromatography equipment, and computer-based electronic batch record systems. The role may require overtime based on production demands, and you will be expected to follow all safety procedures and maintain high standards of housekeeping in the lab.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Baltimore, MD.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $27.30 - $27.30/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Baltimore,MD.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 11, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.