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Assay Lab Technician
Career Insights for Laboratory Technician (General)
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Based on Minnesota data
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What they do
A Laboratory Technician performs routine tests on samples of body fluids, tissues, and other substances for diagnostic and research purposes. Works under the supervision of a medical laboratory technologist in a laboratory or healthcare facility.
$47,750 / year median in Minnesota
-1% projected decline
Job Description
ASSAY LAB TECHNICIAN
Owatonna, MN (Southtown Refinery) The Assay Lab Technician provides accurate quantitative analysis of precious metal alloys and scrap materials by utilizing fire assay process, with occasional Atomic Absorption analysis. This also includes laboratory preparation work, operation and maintenance of Atomic Absorption Spectrometer, use of microbalance, process and review of analytical data, preparing and presenting reports, charts, and graphs. The incumbent is also accountable for some research and development support tasks, outside vendor supply procurement, and preventative maintenance scheduling.
RESPONSIBILITIES/ ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
+ Perform entire fire assay process including preparation of samples and accurate weighing and recording.
+ Provide analysis and report on incoming samples from outside vendors.
+ Prepare assay samples for hot acid separation process utilizing good laboratory techniques.
+ Perform all calculations, reporting and record keeping of assays, or any other analytic testing processed or completed.
+ Accurately collects and reports data and inputs information into various databases.
+ Writes and updates SOP's, maintains a comprehensive record as required to support performance, follows up with management/teams requesting testing.
+ Perform preparation work for the assay process, including identification of samples and proper recording of information related to the samples.
+ Provide other accompanying department assistance, research and development testing or other support for internal company use.
+ Perform preventative maintenance and needed calibration, and support troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.
+ Participate in yearly ASTM testing.
+ Cross train to develop ability to update/adjust access database.
+ Order laboratory supplies.
+ Positively collaborate with Safety, Quality, and Manufacturing plants analysis.
REQUIRED
+ High School Diploma or GED required with lab technician experience
+ Training or working knowledge in chemistry and the associated formulas and calculations
+ General Knowledge of Metallurgical Analysis
+ Strong math and computer aptitude
+ Ability to perform accurate and complex operations without errors
+ Good understanding of Microsoft Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel and Access)
+ Ability to perform laboratory analysis using provided lab equipment in a timely manner
+ Good knowledge of all databases related to the area.
PREFERRED
+ Associate's or Bachelor's degree in chemistry, metallurgy, or a related science
LOVE WHERE YOU WORK
+ We care about your health. We offer competitive healthcare (health, dental, vision, coverage) in addition to voluntary benefits including home and car insurance, pet insurance, flexible spending account, amongst many more.
+ We invest in your future. Our 401K plan has immediate vesting, so you can start saving for retirement right away.
+ We want you to unplug when needed. We believe in taking your time off without guilt and offer accrued paid time off and company paid holidays.
•For Washington residents, you will receive 13 vacation days, 8 paid sick leave, 8 company paid holidays, and family paid leave.
+ We care about your development. We support tuition reimbursement after 6 months of service.
+ We believe in pay transparency. The salary range is $21.00/hour to $24.00/hour ($43,680 - $49,920 yearly).
APPLICATION DEADLINE
September 30, 2026
ABOUT US:
Jostens leads the student commemoration market and has been serving local communities for over 125 years. We work with thousands of K-12 schools, colleges and universities each year, and have the honor of partnering with beloved sports teams and esteemed organizations across the country. Our iconic products — like yearbooks, letter jackets, class jewelry and championship rings — keep meaningful traditions alive and inspire millions of people to celebrate their unique stories, milestone moments and biggest accomplishments every year. We have 13 first-class facilities across the globe, from North America to the Caribbean. Watch a short video about us here (https://f.io/HIAsH659) .
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
(ADA): Jostens is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. If reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, or to perform the essential functions of the position, please reach out to our HR team at recruiter@jostens.com or (952) 830-3399. Jostens is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with applicable employment laws. EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled are encouraged to apply.
California Privacy Policy:
https://www.jostens.com/about/california-employee-privacy-policy