Job Title: Chemical Lab Technician - First Shift
Job Description
The Chemical Lab Technician works hands-on in an industrial metallurgical laboratory, preparing metal samples and performing a variety of chemical and physical tests to certify metal products. This role combines mechanical sample preparation with analytical testing methods such as ICP, OES, LECO, and density analysis, supporting a wide range of industries including transportation, medical devices, aerospace, defense, rockets, and satellites. The position offers strong opportunities for skill development and long-term growth across multiple technical disciplines.
Responsibilities
Prepare metal samples for testing by cutting, grinding, sanding, and polishing surfaces using power and industrial tools such as saws, grinders, polishers, drills, and furnaces.
Perform chemical and physical tests on metal products using methods including ICP, OES, LECO, density testing, and other spectrometry techniques to certify various @types of metal products.
Work under the direct supervision of senior chemistry staff to perform analyses of client samples according to established procedures and laboratory standards.
Carry out routine operation, maintenance, calibration, and qualification of laboratory equipment and instruments, and assist in basic troubleshooting when issues arise.
Ensure that test machines and instruments are properly calibrated and verified before use to maintain accuracy and reliability of test results.
Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and records, documenting sample preparation steps, test procedures, results, and observations in a clear and organized manner.
Prepare reports and summarize test results and findings in a format suitable for internal review and client communication.
Follow detailed written and verbal procedures precisely to ensure tests are performed to required specifications and accreditations.
Support day-to-day operational activities of the chemistry lab, including housekeeping, organization of tools and materials, and general lab upkeep.
Handle furnaces, saws, and other industrial equipment safely while working on the metal sample preparation and industrial floor of the lab.
Apply basic mathematical concepts to calculations required in testing, data analysis, and equipment calibration.
Collaborate with team members while also managing individual tasks independently, contributing to a productive and safe laboratory environment.
Demonstrate a willingness to learn new methods and cross-train in other departments over time, such as Safety, Quality, Engineering, and Chemistry.
Essential Skills
Hands-on laboratory experience with basic lab skills, including sample preparation and handling.
Industrial laboratory experience, preferably in metals testing, with familiarity working in an active production or industrial environment.
Experience using power tools such as grinders, saws, polishers, drills, and similar equipment for mechanical or sample preparation work.
Ability to follow detailed written and verbal procedures accurately and consistently.
Ability to understand and apply basic mathematical concepts in testing and data recording.
Strong communication skills for documenting results and collaborating with laboratory staff.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Willingness to learn new techniques, equipment, and processes in the lab.
High school diploma with 1-2 years of lab experience, preferably in a metals lab, or equivalent combination of education and hands-on lab experience.
Work Environment
The position is first shift, Monday through Friday, with a 40-hour workweek plus a 30-minute lunch (approximately 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), and offers a flexible schedule after training, including optional overtime that is only mandatory occasionally. The laboratory is part of a large global network with thousands of labs and tens of thousands of employees worldwide, providing exposure to diverse testing services such as chemical analysis, mechanical testing, metallographic examination, failure analysis, and engineering consultation. The environment is highly hands-on and well-suited to individuals who enjoy working with tools, machinery, and practical, real-world applications of laboratory science.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Northlake, IL.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $27.00/hr.
Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.
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 Northlake,IL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Sep 4, 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.
