A Manufacturing or Production Technician works with manufacturing equipment and machinery. Performs set up and tests, monitors, adjusts and repairs machines used to produce products or other machines. Inspects equipment, troubleshoots problems with machines or designs.
The Laboratory Technician plays a key role in supporting quality assurance and production activities at the talc and barite processing facility. Working under the direction of the EHS and Quality Manager, the Lab Technician performs routine and non-routine testing of raw materials and finished products, maintains laboratory equipment, and ensures testing protocols are in compliance with
ISO 9000
standards and internal quality control procedures. The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail, follow established procedures closely, and contribute to a culture of safety, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
Quality Testing & Analysis:
Perform daily laboratory analyses on talc and barite products to ensure compliance with internal specifications and customer requirements. Conduct standardized tests and measurements following
ISO 9000
procedures and quality standards. Record, analyze, and report test results accurately and promptly to the Quality and EHS Manager. Assist in investigations of non-conformances, performing root cause testing when needed.
Equipment Maintenance & Calibration:
Operate and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, including balances, sieves, moisture analyzers, pH meters, and other analytical tools. Perform regular calibration and preventative maintenance of lab equipment to ensure testing accuracy. Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate repairs with vendors when necessary.
Documentation & Compliance:
Accurately document all test procedures, results, and observations in compliance with ISO 9000 and company quality documentation protocols. Assist in internal and external audits by providing lab data, documentation, and insight into testing procedures. Maintain lab cleanliness, orderliness, and adherence to 5S standards. Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE)
Support:
Follow all MSHA and facility safety rules, including the use of required PPE and participation in safety meetings and drills. Handle, store, and dispose of laboratory chemicals and samples according to safety and environmental procedures. Support environmental and safety monitoring tasks as needed (e.g., sample collection, basic field measurements).
Team Collaboration & Communication:
Work closely with the Quality and EHS Manager to implement and improve quality control systems. Provide feedback on product quality trends and suggest process improvements. Assist in training new lab personnel or operators on sampling and testing methods.
Qualifications:
Education & Experience:
Associate degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Laboratory Science, Environmental Science, or related technical field. Bachelor's degree preferred. 1-3 years of laboratory experience, preferably in an industrial, mining, or mineral processing environment.
Technical Skills:
Proficiency with basic laboratory instruments and analytical procedures. Proficient in Microsoft Office - Excel and Word Understanding of
ISO 9000
Quality Management Systems is a plus. Familiarity with MSHA safety standards and EHS practices is a plus.
Other Skills:
Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing accurate results. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally and stand for extended periods. Comfortable working in a lab and production environment, including exposure to dust and varying temperatures. Use of appropriate PPE including respirators, hearing protection, gloves, and safety glasses.
Preferred Qualifications:
Previous experience testing talc, barite, or other industrial minerals. Familiarity with external lab coordination and third-party testing processes. Basic understanding of environmental compliance and safe chemical handling.
Job Type:
Full-time Pay:
$17.50 - $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
