Lab Technician

Job DescriptionThe position involves optimizing cost-effective manufacturing processes in line with product specifications and quality standards, recommending enhancements to production processes, and assisting in the manufacturing launch of new or revised products. This role also supports R&D and product development through analysis, testing, and documenting material performance, transitioning product development projects from lab to manufacturing.ResponsibilitiesPrepare laboratory batches, test samples, and prototypes according to established formulations and instructions.Accurately weigh, measure, and mix raw materials following standard procedures and safety protocols.Operate and maintain laboratory equipment such as mixers, ovens, coating machines, viscometers, tensile testers, or analytical instruments.Conduct routine physical and chemical testing to evaluate product properties, performance, and quality.Record and summarize test results in laboratory notebooks, spreadsheets, or electronic systems.Communicate irregularities or unexpected results to supervising chemists or engineejrs.Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records, batch sheets, and test data in accordance with company and regulatory requirements.Assist in preparing samples, reports, and documentation for product reviews or customer evaluations.Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.Calibrate and perform routine maintenance on laboratory instruments and equipment.Manage inventory of laboratory supplies and raw materials, notifying supervisors of shortages.Follow all safety policies, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.Support environmental, health, and safety (EHS) initiatives, including proper waste disposal and labeling of chemicals.Participate in regular safety training and contribute to maintaining compliance with OSHA, EPA, and other applicable regulations.Work collaboratively with product development, quality, and production teams to support trials and scale-up activities.Suggest improvements to testing methods, documentation practices, or laboratory organization.Assist in troubleshooting formulation or process issues under the direction of technical staff.Essential SkillsMinimum 2 years of technical experience in a Quality role within a laboratory, chemical, converting, or pressure-sensitive tape environment.Experience with product evaluation, following written protocols, and excellent documentation and organizational skills.Experience working in an ISO 9001 certified manufacturing environment is preferred.Additional Skills & QualificationsBachelor's degree in math, science, or engineering is a plus.Experience in quality control, ISO standards, quality lab, and quality documentation.Quality assurance, inspection, and quality check experience.Work EnvironmentThe work takes place in a lab environment, with a first shift from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The lab environment is well-maintained. The role involves close collaboration with other in the research lab. The team culture is supportive, with a current team of five members looking to expand. Regular team-building events such as summer picnics and monthly celebrations are conducted to foster team spirit.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lake Forest, IL.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $21.00 - $24.00/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 TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Lake Forest,IL.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Apr 6, 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.