Compostability Laboratory Technician

Universities of Wisconsin•Stevens Point, WI

23d•Onsite

About The Position

This position provides assistance in the WIST Compostability Testing Laboratory. Duties include monitoring testing processes from start-up to completion, which involves taking and recording daily incubator temperatures, weighing and mixing compost vessels, adjusting moisture content, and preparing incubators. The role also involves performing laboratory work, routine analyses, and procedures according to standard specifications like ASTMD6400 or ASTM D6868, and adhering to the Quality Management System of the WIST Compostability Testing Laboratory.

Requirements

Natural Resources or Paper Science & Chemical Engineering Major
Ability to work and learn independently and with team members
Ability to perform repetitive tasks accurately and regularly during the work week
Must be detailed oriented
Knowledge and efficient use of Microsoft Office and Adobe Reader are a must
Maintain a GPA of at least 3.0

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of pH, volatile solids, moisture content, and general lab safety procedures is a bonus
Occasional weekend work may be required

Responsibilities

Taking and recording daily incubator temperatures
Weighing/mixing compost vessels, writing descriptions of each vessel, and adjusting moisture content if necessary
Assisting in starting a trial by mixing compost feedstock, taking moisture content, pH, volatile solids, cutting up the sample, and preparing incubators
Assisting in ending a trial by taking pH, moisture content, volatile solids, sieving and cleaning product
Performing laboratory work, routine analyses, and procedures in accordance with test methods described in standard specifications ASTMD6400 or ASTM D6868
Reading, understanding, and complying with the contents of the WIST Compostability Testing Laboratory Quality Management System
Actively monitoring and obtaining data for analysis
Maintaining equipment as necessary