What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chemistry Lab Technician position at Actalent?
Job Description
The Chemistry Lab Technician supports a high-volume contract testing laboratory by managing sample registration, preparation, and logistical coordination across multiple chemistry labs. This role focuses on accurately registering samples into the LIMS, organizing and labeling them, and ensuring they reach the appropriate laboratory for testing, while also performing routine wet chemistry preparation and general lab support to keep operations running smoothly and efficiently.
Responsibilities
- Register incoming samples into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) with a high level of accuracy and completeness.
- Print and apply labels to sets of samples and organize them for timely delivery to the appropriate laboratories for required testing.
- Deliver samples to relevant labs for testing and retrieve samples for preparation or retesting as needed.
- Prepare samples for HPLC testing and, after training, support running and processing HPLC at the Technician III level under supervision.
- Perform routine wet chemistry preparation, including weighing samples, titrations, fat testing, and solids testing.
- Carry out balance work to ensure accurate measurements and maintain equipment in good working order.
- Conduct pH testing and general sample preparation to support various analytical methods.
- Stock and order laboratory supplies to ensure all work areas remain adequately equipped.
- Sterilize and wash glassware to maintain a clean and compliant laboratory environment.
- Test fume hoods and other relevant equipment for proper airflow and safe operation.
- Open parcels containing samples and laboratory supplies, verify contents, and input them into appropriate systems for use.
- Register and deliver reagents and other laboratory supplies to the correct laboratories and storage areas.
- Complete Core Method Training and Sample Registration Training to understand laboratory process flow and accurately support it.
- Follow applicable standard operating procedures (SOPs) and adhere to GMP, GLP, USDA, and laboratory quality standards at all times.
- Apply 5S methodology to organize and maintain inventory, lab supplies, documents, forms, and items in work areas.
- Use and store laboratory equipment and chemicals safely in accordance with established guidelines.
- Participate in team meetings and communicate effectively regarding deadlines, testing schedules, and completion timelines.
- Perform any additional tasks required to ensure the laboratory operates efficiently and meets turnaround expectations.
- High school diploma with 1 or more years of laboratory or sample registration experience, OR a 2-year or 4-year degree in a scientific discipline with willingness to work as a Lab Assistant for 6 months.
- Foundational knowledge of chemistry and wet chemistry techniques.
- Experience with laboratory environments and basic analytical chemistry practices.
- Ability to perform titrations, fat testing, solids testing, and pH measurements after training.
- Strong organizational skills to manage high sample volumes and multiple workflows simultaneously.
- Ability to accurately register samples and supplies in electronic systems such as LIMS.
- Capability to follow SOPs and comply with GMP, GLP, USDA, and quality standards.
- Comfort with handling chemicals and operating standard laboratory equipment safely.
- Ability to work on your feet for extended periods and manage time effectively in a fast-paced setting.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills to coordinate with multiple labs and meet deadlines.
- Preference for a Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field for long-term advancement, though not required if equivalent laboratory or sample registration experience is present.
- Retail, customer service, or serving background is highly valued as it demonstrates comfort being on your feet, strong time management, and ability to work with others and learn new tasks quickly.
- Interest in advancing within a structured lab technician career path (Lab Assistant through Technician levels 1–4).
- Willingness to learn HPLC preparation and, over time, support HPLC operation at a more advanced level.
- Attention to detail and accuracy when labeling, organizing, and tracking samples and supplies.
- Commitment to continuous improvement and maintaining an organized workspace using 5S principles.
This role is based in a contract testing laboratory that primarily serves the milk and dairy industry and operates in a fast-paced, high-throughput environment. The position sits within the Chemistry Department, which includes three main laboratories, and this technician supports all of them through organizational and preparatory activities rather than direct testing. On average, the team processes about 200 samples per shift, with approximately 50 samples per person, requiring efficient work habits and strong organizational skills. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., for an 8.5-hour shift, with potential opportunities for overtime during the week and on weekends depending on workload. The lab follows GMP, GLP, USDA, and quality standards, and staff use typical chemistry lab equipment such as balances, pH meters, HPLC systems (for which training is provided), fume hoods, and various wet chemistry instruments. The environment involves regular handling of samples, reagents, and chemicals, as well as frequent movement between labs and storage areas. The culture supports growth and advancement within a defined lab technician structure, with opportunities to progress from Lab Assistant through Technician levels 1 to 4, taking on more responsibility, troubleshooting, and technical work over time, particularly for those who meet educational requirements for promotion. Standard laboratory attire and appropriate personal protective equipment are required to maintain safety and compliance.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Saint Paul, MN.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/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 Saint Paul,MN.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on May 26, 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.
Salary : $20