Laboratory Technician
Lhoist · Calera
At Lhoist North America, our core values of Respect, Courage, and Integrity are more than words. We respect people, encourage courageous innovation, and uphold integrity in everything we do. If these principles resonate with you, you may find your next great opportunity with us.
We believe our people make the difference. That’s why we invest in talent by offering meaningful opportunities to grow your skills, expand your knowledge, and pursue your interests. Our work environment prioritizes safety, fosters collaboration across teams, and embraces inclusion. Here, you’ll be challenged to grow, and you’ll be supported throughout your career journey. Join us and help shape the future of Lhoist North America.
POSITION SUMMARY: The Lab/QC Technician is responsible for supporting plant operations through accurate quality control testing, sample analysis, and compliance with established quality and safety standards. This role performs routine laboratory testing of raw materials, finished products, environmental systems, and fuels; maintains laboratory equipment, supplies, and records; and ensures adherence to quality system requirements and regulatory standards. The technician interprets and communicates test results to support product quality, process control, and continuous improvement initiatives. Working in a manufacturing environment, the position requires a strong commitment to safety, attention to detail, analytical problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with plant and laboratory teams.
RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS:
1. Quality Control & Laboratory Operations
- Conduct chemical, physical, and environmental testing of raw materials, in-process materials, finished products, fuels, and environmental systems in accordance with established laboratory procedures and quality standards.
- Accurately collect, prepare, analyze, and document samples to ensure timely and reliable test results.
- Interpret laboratory data and effectively communicate results to operations and management to support product quality, process performance, and customer requirements.
- Maintain retained samples and laboratory records in accordance with quality system requirements.
2. Quality Systems & Compliance
- Support the implementation and continuous improvement of the site quality management system.
- Maintain accurate, current, and compliant laboratory procedures, work instructions, records, and documentation.
- Assist in monitoring product specifications, supplier quality, and customer requirements to ensure compliance and identify improvement opportunities.
- Support investigations related to product quality issues, nonconformances, and customer complaints and provide data-driven recommendations for corrective actions.
- Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, local, company, and regulatory requirements.
3. Laboratory Equipment & Inventory Management
- Maintain laboratory instruments, testing equipment, chemical solutions, and calibration standards to ensure accuracy, reliability, and compliance with established procedures.
- Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, minor repairs, and preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment.
- Manage laboratory inventories, including testing supplies, shipping materials, chemicals, and consumables, to support uninterrupted operations.
4. Safety & Environmental Stewardship
- Demonstrate an uncompromising commitment to safety by complying with all company safety, environmental, and housekeeping standards.
- Maintain a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment and promptly identify and address potential hazards.
- Participate in required safety meetings, training activities, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Support alignment between quality systems and site safety and environmental programs.
5. Training & Continuous Improvement
- Support the training and development of employees on laboratory procedures, testing methods, quality systems, and data management processes.
- Assist with on-the-job training verification and knowledge transfer activities as assigned.
- Promote quality awareness and understanding throughout the operation while supporting continuous improvement efforts.
- Contribute to the development and enhancement of corporate quality and data management systems.
6. Perform other duties as assigned.
REQUIRED ATTRIBUTES:
- Demonstrates a strong commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence.
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to accurately analyze, interpret, and communicate technical information.
- Effective organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and make sound decisions within established guidelines.
- Demonstrates strong teamwork, communication, and interpersonal skills across all levels of the organization.
- Proficient in basic computer applications, including Microsoft Office programs and laboratory data management systems.
- Ability to learn and apply new technologies, processes, and work methods.
- Dependable with a commitment to attendance, accountability, and professional conduct.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:
- Maintain regular, reliable attendance and punctuality; work rotating shifts, overtime, weekends, holidays, or be on-call as business needs require.
- Perform work in both laboratory and industrial manufacturing environments while adhering to all safety policies, procedures, and site requirements.
- Perform physical activities including standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, climbing, and lifting throughout the workday.
- Frequently handle laboratory samples, testing equipment, tools, and materials while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
- Access all areas of the plant, including climbing stairs and ladders, working at heights up to approximately 120 feet, entering confined spaces and accessing tunnels.
- Work safely around moving equipment, conveyors, mobile equipment, and high-temperature process systems.
- Tolerate exposure to varying environmental conditions, including heat, cold, dust, noise, vibration, fumes, and mineral based materials commonly found in industrial operations.
- Utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow all safety and environmental requirements.
- Communicate effectively and maintain situational awareness in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
- The essential functions and physical demands described above are representative of those required to successfully perform this role, with or without reasonable accommodation.
REQUIRED EDUCATION:
- High School Diploma or GED.
PREFERRED EDUCATION:
- Associate degree in Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, or a related technical field preferred; equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience will be considered.
REQUIRED WORK EXPERIENCE:
- One (1) year of laboratory, manufacturing, mining, industrial, or related experience preferred. Equivalent education, internships, or technical training may be considered.
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
- Previous quality control laboratory experience in a manufacturing or industrial setting preferred.
Lhoist North America is proud to offer a highly competitive compensation package designed to support your well-being and future.
Our benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, along with paid vacation and sick time. We also offer an attractive 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with a generous Employer Match as well as a Supplemental Contribution based on your Years of Service to help you plan confidently for the future. We recognize that growth doesn’t stop at the workplace. That’s why we provide educational assistance to encourage continued learning and professional development, empowering our employees to reach their full potential.
At Lhoist North America, your success is our investment.
Lhoist North America is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We are committed to fostering a workplace that values inclusion, respect, and diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. We believe that a diverse and inclusive environment strengthens our teams and drives innovation. That’s why we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply and strive to ensure every employee feels respected, supported, and empowered to succeed.
At Lhoist North America, inclusion isn’t just a policy, it’s a core part of who we are.
If you need assistance completing the application process, please contact lna.accommodations@lhoist.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.