Job Title: Sample Preparation Technician
Job Description
The Sample Preparation Technician works in an environmental laboratory, preparing soil and water samples for chemical analysis and supporting broader environmental testing activities. This role helps ensure accurate analytical results that support compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations. The position offers a strong development path, with the opportunity to transition from sample receiving into a full laboratory technician role.
Responsibilities
Prepare soil and water samples for chemical analysis according to established laboratory methods and standard operating procedures.
Receive, log, and organize environmental samples, ensuring proper labeling, chain-of-custody documentation, and storage conditions.
Support environmental sample preparation activities for air, water, and soil testing, including aliquoting, preservation, and basic processing steps.
Assist in gathering and monitoring environmental samples to determine the presence of pollutants and other contaminants.
Use specialized laboratory equipment and techniques to support environmental testing and analysis under the guidance of Sr lab personnel.
Monitor environmental systems and related data, such as wastewater treatment, air pollution control, and waste management, as directed.
Collect and analyze basic environmental data to support assessment of environmental conditions, trends, and system performance.
Maintain accurate records, logs, and documentation related to sample receiving, preparation, and environmental compliance reporting.
Follow laboratory quality control procedures to help ensure the accuracy and reliability of test results.
Support environmental compliance efforts by adhering to relevant local, state, and federal regulations, permits, and standards.
Follow established emergency response procedures for environmental incidents, spills, and accidents within the lab setting.
Communicate effectively with laboratory staff and other team members regarding sample status, issues, and test requirements.
Handle, move, and organize supplies and samples, including lifting items up to 50 pounds without assistance.
Collaborate with colleagues and multidisciplinary teams to achieve environmental testing and compliance goals.
Contribute to a clean, safe, and organized laboratory work area by following all safety and environmental protocols.
Essential Skills
Experience with sample preparation for environmental testing, particularly soil and water sample prep.
Experience in an environmental laboratory setting, including sample receiving, processing, or analysis.
Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Environmental Sciences, or a related field, or an Associate's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, or Environmental Sciences.
Strong understanding of environmental monitoring and testing practices, including handling of air, water, and soil samples.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal environmental regulations, permits, and standards related to environmental compliance.
Proficiency with environmental monitoring equipment and basic laboratory instruments used for sample preparation and testing.
Ability to use data analysis tools to review and interpret environmental data and support environmental decision-making.
Effective written and verbal communication skills to convey technical information and compliance requirements.
Strong problem-solving skills to help address environmental challenges and support practical solutions.
Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in sample labeling, documentation, and regulatory compliance.
Strong analytical thinking skills to assess environmental data, identify trends, and make informed recommendations.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a collaborative laboratory environment.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds without assistance as part of routine laboratory and sample handling duties.
Willingness and ability to work fully on-site in the laboratory; this is not a hybrid role.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Degree in Chemistry or a closely related discipline is highly preferred for growth into a laboratory technician role.
Environmental laboratory experience is strongly desired, particularly in environmental sample receiving and processing.
Experience with sample collection in the field (air, water, or soil) is beneficial.
Familiarity with environmental modeling software or advanced data analysis tools is a plus.
Ability to understand and follow detailed laboratory protocols and quality control procedures.
Demonstrated ability to manage time effectively and handle multiple samples and tasks simultaneously.
Interest in developing a long-term career in environmental science, analytical chemistry, or laboratory operations.
Comfort working with environmental monitoring systems related to wastewater treatment, air pollution control, and waste management.
Knowledge of emergency response concepts related to environmental incidents, spills, and accidents is advantageous.
Work Environment
This is a fully on-site position working in an environmental laboratory, primarily in an upstairs lab area dedicated to sample receiving and sample preparation. The role involves handling soil, water, and other environmental samples using standard laboratory equipment, environmental monitoring instruments, and data analysis tools. Work is performed in a controlled lab setting that emphasizes safety, cleanliness, and adherence to environmental and quality standards. The position requires periods of standing, walking between lab areas, and lifting items up to 50 pounds, such as sample containers and laboratory supplies. Team members collaborate closely with other laboratory staff and environmental professionals in a structured, process-driven environment focused on accurate testing and regulatory compliance. Dress typically follows standard laboratory attire and safety requirements, which may include lab coats, appropriate footwear, and personal protective equipment as required by lab protocols.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Atlanta, GA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $27.00/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 Atlanta,GA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 17, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
Hiring diverse talent
Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC-with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.
