Position Title:

Lab/Quality Technician Department:

Quality Control /

Laboratory Work Schedule:

Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:30

PM Employment Status:

Full-Time Location:

Wallace, SC Position Summary Palmetto Brick Company is seeking a dependable, detail-oriented Lab Technician to support our quality control and manufacturing operations. This position is responsible for conducting laboratory testing, evaluating raw materials, monitoring finished brick products, and performing quality audits to ensure products consistently meet company standards and applicable ASTM specifications. The ideal candidate will possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, a commitment to accuracy, and the ability to work independently while supporting production operations at both manufacturing plants. Ability to continuously grasp and retain new information quickly. Essential Duties and Responsibilities 1. Laboratory Testing and ASTM Compliance Perform laboratory testing in accordance with established ASTM standards and company quality requirements, including: 24-Hour Water Absorption Testing 5-Hour Boil Testing Loss on Ignition (LOI) Testing Void Testing Initial Rate of Absorption (IRA) Testing Shrinkage Testing Accurately document, maintain, and communicate testing results. Identify and report test results that do not meet established quality specifications. 2. Raw Material Testing and Evaluation Conduct hydrometer testing on raw materials from stockpiles and mine sites. Assist with drilling and collecting core samples of raw materials. Perform moisture testing to monitor raw material consistency. Prepare and run laboratory test bars for research and development, material evaluation, and other testing requirements. Maintain accurate testing records and communicate findings to appropriate management personnel. Assist in identifying raw material variations that may affect production quality. 3. Fired Product Quality Evaluation Conduct color analysis of finished brick products using a color spectrograph. Maintain panel wall documentation, including photographs for quality comparisons. Prepare and maintain six-brick comparison photographs to monitor product color and appearance. Inspect and evaluate kiln car samples at both manufacturing plants. Monitor finished products for color consistency, appearance, and overall quality. Report quality concerns or inconsistencies to management in a timely manner. 4. Production Quality Audits Conduct routine quality audits throughout manufacturing facility. Inspect production processes and products at the following locations: Feeder Room Mill Setting Machine Dehacker Kiln Identify potential quality issues and communicate findings to area management. Verify that established quality standards and procedures are being followed. Maintain accurate audit documentation and assist with corrective action follow-up when necessary. Required Qualifications and Skills High school diploma or GED required. Previous laboratory, manufacturing, or quality control experience preferred. Ability to follow detailed testing procedures and written instructions. Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and consistency. Basic math, measurement, and computer skills. Ability to maintain organized and accurate testing records. Strong communication and problem-solving skills. Ability to work independently and manage multiple responsibilities. Willingness to learn ASTM testing procedures, laboratory equipment, and brick manufacturing processes. Ability to work cooperatively with production personnel and management. Dependable attendance and a strong commitment to workplace safety. Physical and Work Environment Requirements Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform repetitive tasks throughout the workday. Ability to handle brick samples, raw materials, and laboratory testing equipment. Ability to work in both laboratory and manufacturing environments. Exposure to dust, noise, heat, and other conditions associated with brick manufacturing. Required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working in designated areas. Ability to safely perform assigned lifting and material-handling duties. Performance Expectations The successful Lab Technician will be expected to:

Accuracy:

Produce reliable, consistent, and properly documented laboratory results.

Quality:

Recognize and communicate product or raw material concerns before they become larger production issues.

Organization:

Maintain a clean, safe, and organized laboratory and testing environment.

Accountability:

Complete assigned testing and quality audits in a timely manner.

Communication:

Effectively communicate findings and concerns to management and production personnel.

Teamwork:

Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to assist other departments when needed.

Safety:

Follow all company safety policies, testing procedures, and equipment operating requirements. Any other duties assigned by

Lead/Manager Pay:

From $22.66 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Opportunities for advancement Paid time off Vision insurance

Education:

High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

Quality Control:

2 years (Preferred)

Location:

Wallace, SC 29596 (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person