Laboratory Technician - Routine Fluids

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN I – ROUTINE FLUIDS

Summary

Performs routine laboratory tests under close supervision to determine chemical or physical characteristics designated by the client.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Read and understand all analysis and safety standards in English, including ASTM, GPA, API, UOP, IP and other well-defined analytical standards and procedures used in the laboratory.
• Assist senior laboratory personnel in setting up, adjusting and operating laboratory equipment for which the technician has been adequately trained and has been verified to operate correctly in accordance with applicable standards and sound laboratory practice.
• Assist in or perform basic analytical tests from well-defined standards and procedures as assigned by the Laboratory Manager. Laboratory technicians must be verified to be able to perform all tests in accordance with applicable standards and sound laboratory practice.
• Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting and address minor repairs to laboratory equipment as required.
• Maintain a safe, clean and efficient workplace adhering to all laboratory safety requirements. Ensuring that all safety infractions are addressed in a timely manner.
• Assist in calibrating laboratory instruments for which the technician has been adequately trained and has been verified to operate correctly in accordance with applicable standards and sound laboratory practice.
• Prepare chemical solutions according to standard formulas.
• Comply with all health, safety, and quality management system requirements.
• Understand theory and calculations associated with laboratory analyses performed.
• Complete laboratory raw data sheets and make accurate entries into laboratory computer programs.
  
  

Qualification Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with certain disabilities to perform the essential job functions when safety is not compromised. A 90-day initial review period applies to Laboratory Technicians, during which time the technician will be evaluated for suitability of the job.

Education And/Or Experience

• A high school diploma or equivalent required
• Bachelor of Science degree preferred
• Two years of related experience and/or training preferred
  
  

Language Skills

Ability to read, analyze and interpret instructional and technical materials relating to procedures and safety; and applicable government regulations. Ability to write applicable reports and correspondence clearly. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, schedulers and clients.

Mathematical Skills

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, percent, and quantities (linear, volumetric, or weight) and to read and interpolate applicable data and tables. Able to draw and interpret applicable graphs and control charts.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule formats.

Other Skills And Abilities

Familiarity with basic computer skills in word processing and spreadsheet programs is helpful but not required; however Laboratory Technicians must possess the capability to learn these applications through instruction.

Social Responsibilities

Laboratory Technicians are expected to exhibit professional appearance and attitude. They are also expected to act in harmony with fellow employees.

JOB ASSIGNMENTS

Laboratory technicians must be ready to accept job assignments at any time, including scheduled days off. Overtime must be worked as required. Attendance at monthly safety meetings is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative, but not necessarily all-inclusive, of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with certain disabilities to perform the essential functions when safety is not compromised.

Physical Qualifications For Petroleum Laboratory Technicians

• Laboratory Technicians must meet the following physical qualifications.
• Pass the drug and alcohol test specified for safety-sensitive employees.
• Be able to work in the presence of odors typical of petroleum or petrochemicals without allergic reactions or nausea. When such odors are within OSHA-designated permissible exposure limits (PELs).
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; talk or hear; and test or smell. The employee frequently is required to walk, sit, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  
  

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions when safety is not compromised.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to fumes, airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals. The department provides product information, training, engineering controls, and personal protective equipment in an effort to protect employees from exposure to potentially harmful levels of those materials. Employees are required to read product information, use available engineering controls, follow guidelines presented during training, and be able to wear and use appropriate protective equipment, including respiratory protective equipment, as may be required by the work environment.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.