Quality and Continuous Improvement Lab Tech

Position Title: Quality and Continuous Improvement Lab Tech

Objective: Perform routine and non‑routine quality control testing on finished goods, in‑process materials, and environmental/EHS samples. Support continuous improvement activities within the QA Lab and ensure all analytical work meets Quality Management System (QMS) standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform QC testing on all products produced at the BASF Freeport Dispersions site following established analytical procedures.
• Set up, calibrate, and operate laboratory instruments, including analytical balances, pH/ion meters, solids ovens, TOC, HPLC, viscometers, GC, particle size analyzers, and biocide testing equipment.
• Run computer‑controlled instruments, store and retrieve analytical data, and generate accurate documentation.
• Prepare analytical solutions, standards, buffers, and production samples (latex, wastewater, alumina).
• Prepare environmental effluent samples and final product samples for shipment release.
• Supporting continuous improvement of lab and plant processes through QA/QC activities and ensuring we consistently meet or exceed customer expectations.

• Record and document all test results per QMS requirements.
• Perform data entry, interpret control charts/graphs, and report out‑of‑spec or out‑of‑trend results.
• Maintain organized digital spaces (shared folders, MS Teams).

• Conduct in‑process testing and advise production teams on any adjustments needed to bring materials within specification.
• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and perform routine maintenance on lab instruments.
• Participate in NCM (Nonconformance Management) investigations and tracking.
• Assist with reviewing and improving laboratory procedures.
• Ensure all lab instruments remain within calibration and comply with QMS procedures.
• Support environmental and safety monitoring tests as required.
• Maintain laboratory consumable inventory and ensure strong housekeeping standards.

• Collaborating with Supply Chain and Operations to expedite customer shipments using SAP.
• Participate in site activities such as safety meetings, housekeeping, training, and HR initiatives.
• Follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements.
• Support overtime needs and manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced production environment.

Qualifications

Required

• Associate degree or technical degree in Chemistry/Analytical Testing OR High School Diploma/GED with 2 years of relevant industrial lab experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and computer‑controlled analytical instruments.
• Basic understanding of chemistry, quality assurance/quality control, analytical methodology, and statistics.
• Strong math skills (ratios, percentages, fractions, graph interpretation).
• Ability to read and interpret lab procedures, operating instructions, and written/oral directions.
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. occasionally.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work efficiently in a fast‑paced team environment.

Preferred

• Experience in ISO or GMP‑regulated laboratory environments.
• Familiarity with emulsion polymerization chemistry and testing.
• 2 years of laboratory experience with increasing responsibility.

Knowledge of common laboratory testing equipment (GC, HPLC, FTIR, viscometers).