Lab Technician

Job Title: Lab Technician - Color MatcherJob DescriptionWe're looking for a skilled Lab Technician - Color Matcher to join a small, collaborative laboratory team where expertise is valued and precision matters. In this hands‐on role, you'll be trusted to develop, fine‐tune, and perfect color formulations that meet exact customer specifications. You'll work with modern color‐matching systems, software, and spectrophotometers while playing a vital role in quality control and production support.This position is ideal for someone with proven experience in paints, coatings, inks, or pigments who enjoys problem‐solving, takes pride in craftsmanship, and thrives in a close‐knit, team‐oriented environmentWhat You'll DoDevelop, refine, and adjust color formulations to meet customer standards and performance requirementsCreate color chips, drawdowns, and spray samples as visual references for production and quality controlOperate color‐matching software and spectrophotometers to verify, document, and optimize color accuracyIdentify and leverage existing color matches using digital tools to improve efficiency and consistencyCalculate sample sizes accurately based on customer ratios, ensuring 100% formula accuracyConvert formulas between weight and volume, including wet and dry film thickness calculationsCompare pigment loadings across batches to ensure consistent color across production runsPrepare, spray, and evaluate samples to assess finish, appearance, and coverageApply standard color‐coding, labeling, and traceability practices for samples and batchesFinalize experimental formulas in laboratory systems and maintain accurate digital documentationPerform physical property testing, including weight per gallon, specific gravity, pH, and viscosityPrepare and evaluate tint and mass‐tone drawdowns for epoxy, silicone, plastisol, and water‐based systemsLabel raw materials, samples, and batches in accordance with lab proceduresMaintain a clean, organized, and safe lab using 5S and good housekeeping practicesAssemble, disassemble, and clean lab equipment following established safety protocolsFollow all laboratory safety requirements, including the use of PPE such as respirators and safety glassesPartner with production and quality teams to troubleshoot and resolve color‐related challengesSupport continuous improvement initiatives focused on color accuracy, repeatability, and efficiencyCommunicate clearly and professionally with teammates, bringing a positive and adaptable mindsetWhat We're Looking For5-8 years of color‐matching experience in paints, coatings, inks, or pigments(Candidates with as little as 2 years of strong, relevant experience will be considered)Demonstrated experience in R&D color formulation and formula adjustmentHands‐on proficiency with color‐matching systems, color software, and spectrophotometersSolid laboratory experience working with wet chemistry and coating systemsStrong attention to detail, organization, and documentation skillsAbility to work independently while contributing effectively to a small teamWhy This RoleWork in a specialized, close‐knit lab where your expertise directly impacts product qualityBlend hands‐on lab work with problem‐solving and collaborationInfluence both R&D and production outcomes in a visible, meaningful wayJoin a team that values precision, continuous improvement, and shared successJob Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Schaumburg, IL.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $28.00 - $34.00/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 & visionCritical Illness, Accident, and Hospital401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions availableLife Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)Short and long-term disabilityHealth Spending Account (HSA)Transportation benefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramTime Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Schaumburg,IL.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on May 8, 2026.Diversity, Equity & InclusionAt 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 talentMaintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflectionBuilding a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomesEnsuring growth opportunities for our peopleActalent is an equal opportunity employer.About ActalentActalent 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.