What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Lab Specialist position at FTS Inc?
Overview
This is an entry-level position with full training provided. The role is split evenly between tracking responsibilities (50%) and hands-on lab work (50%). No previous experience is required, but a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in a technical field is necessary (Chemistry, Biology, or similar disciplines that include exposure to basic lab skills, mathematics, and measurements). Proficiency in Microsoft Office is required.
Key Soft Skills:
- Ability to analyze data
- Strong communication skills
- Team collaboration
- Organizational skills
- Multi-tasking and adaptability
Purpose & Scope
As a Lab Specialist, the primary responsibility is equipment scheduling and coordination with union process technicians (PTs) in the CSM Ion Exchange (IOX) labs. Responsibilities include:
- Tracking expenses and documenting system improvements
- Supporting project and internal customer demands
- Managing chemical usage in the labs and qualifying new chemicals
- Ensuring adherence to safety protocols
- Participating in medium-to-high-level projects while maintaining confidentiality
- Training new employees and educating internal customers on request system usage
- Troubleshooting material, process, and equipment issues
- Maintaining a safe and organized work environment
Major Responsibilities
- Scheduling & Coordination: Prioritize activities to ensure efficient delivery of customer samples, experiments, training, and maintenance. Provide daily direction to union process technicians.
- Logistics: Track expenses, develop training documents, train team members, and lead research for lab supplies.
- Data Analysis: Use PI Vision to monitor furnaces, analyze metrology results, and compare request inputs to IOX outcomes.
- 5S Compliance: Assist in maintaining compliance across all five labs with weekly 5S requirements.
- Documentation: Edit and manage Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) documents in Brady 360, participate in Process Hazard Review Board activities, and update job aides, SOPs, PPEHAs, and JSAs. Maintain logs for nitrate/salt transfers.
- Project Integration: Support development project teams with lab setup for DOEs and related activities. Act as a liaison between internal customers and PTs for timely and accurate results.
- Lab Coverage: Provide support for all IOX lab activities, metrology, and pH area as needed.
- Troubleshooting: Address challenges related to equipment, processes, and training.
- Process Improvement: Drive continuous improvement and cost reduction while maintaining compliance.
- Technical Review: Read and interpret technical documents, apply scientific methods to solve lab issues, and write/execute DOEs.
- Collaboration: Work with product teams to align with critical business priorities and maintain an understanding of products and objectives.
Minimum Requirements
- Education: Bachelor’s (preferred) or Associate’s degree in a technical field (A.S./A.A.S.).
- Experience: Development lab or process area experience preferred but not required.
Technical Skills:
- Strong proficiency in MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
- Data analysis and visualization skills.
- Ability to create effective presentations and spreadsheets.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Ability to work collaboratively across teams and cultures.
- Strong organizational and multi-tasking capabilities.
Job Types: Full-time, Contract
Pay: $22.67 - $26.67 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Referral program
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person
Salary : $23 - $27
