At least 2 years
This role is STARs-friendly: Skilled Through Alternative Routes.
73% STARs in role.
Job Description
The Quality Lab Technician performs routine and specialized quality control testing on production batches to ensure all products meet established specifications before and during filling. This role focuses heavily on wet chemistry and physical testing in a QC laboratory, with occasional work on the production floor. The technician adjusts batches as needed, documents all test results and adjustments, supports short-term quality improvement projects, and helps maintain a safe, organized, and compliant laboratory environment.
Responsibilities
- Conduct all prescribed testing of production batches in accordance with established test methods and quality control procedures.
- Verify that all production batches meet established specifications for color, gloss, viscosity, and physical properties before release.
- Ascertain that each batch meets required color limits and that all products meet specifications prior to filling.
- Confirm that product remains within specification at the time of filling and approve final fill check panels for production.
- Perform various quality tests, including but not limited to color, gloss, viscosity, and physical property measurements, using appropriate laboratory equipment and methods.
- Determine and recommend adjustments required to bring products into quality specifications based on test results.
- Record batch adjustments, fill checks, and related information accurately on batch tickets and other quality documentation.
- Prepare fill check panels and provide timely approvals for filling operations to support production schedules.
- Follow all ISO procedures and quality system requirements in daily laboratory activities.
- Consult with the Quality Manager on testing issues, product quality concerns, and approval decisions as needed.
- Participate in various short-term projects aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the Quality Department as assigned by the Quality Manager.
- Transfer hazardous wastes such as filters, rags, scrap paint, and solvents to the satellite hazardous waste area in accordance with safety and regulatory requirements.
- Apply correct labeling to hazardous waste containers and ensure compliance with all hazardous waste handling procedures.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work station and retain storage area to support efficient laboratory operations and regulatory compliance.
- Collaborate with production personnel, including pulling and testing samples from the production floor when required.
- Use basic math skills, including percentages and fractions, to calculate adjustments and interpret test results.
- Ask questions, seek clarification, and communicate proactively with team members to ensure accurate testing and continuous quality improvement.
- 1–2 years of experience in a quality control laboratory environment, preferably with wet chemistry or similar testing.
- Hands-on quality control or quality assurance experience, including routine testing and documentation.
- Experience performing wet chemistry tests and evaluating color, gloss, viscosity, and physical properties.
- Basic math skills, including working confidently with percentages and fractions.
- Ability to work safely with hazardous materials and follow established safety protocols.
- Familiarity with ISO procedures and willingness to follow documented quality processes.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy when performing tests, recording data, and making batch adjustments.
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high quality standards.
- Effective communication skills to ask questions, clarify requirements, and collaborate with quality and production teams.
- Capability to work both in the lab and on the production floor as needed.
- Ability to complete and maintain required annual RCRA training for hazardous waste handling.
- Previous QC lab experience in an industry where color, gloss, viscosity, and physical properties are critical is preferred but not required.
- Experience in production environments and familiarity with pulling and handling samples from manufacturing lines.
- Knowledge of colors and ability to evaluate color differences accurately.
- Outgoing, curious, and engaged work style, with a willingness to ask questions and learn.
- Demonstrated ability to organize work, maintain clean work areas, and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
- Comfort working within a structured quality system and following written test methods and procedures.
The Quality Lab Technician spends approximately 90% of the time in the QC laboratory and about 10% on the production floor. The role involves regular handling of hazardous materials, including paints, solvents, and related substances, in a controlled lab setting. The position follows a second-shift schedule of 2:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, with occasional optional weekend work during busy periods. The laboratory operates under ISO procedures and requires adherence to safety, hazardous waste handling, and RCRA training requirements. The work environment emphasizes teamwork, an approachable and supportive culture, and opportunities to participate in quality improvement projects. Appropriate lab attire is required, including lab glasses and clothing such as button-up shirts and pants, to support safety and professionalism.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Elk Grove Village, IL.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $22.00 - $22.00/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)
This is a fully onsite position in Elk Grove Village,IL.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on May 31, 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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
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.
Posting ID: JP-006044901
