Lab Analyst - Nights

Gopher Resource•Eagan, MN

About The Position

The Lab Analyst collects and analyzes production-process data and samples to monitor production and ensure safety, quality, environmental, and production standards are met. The role includes timely sampling and analysis of materials, products, slag, and wastewater to monitor product and process quality, ensure waste is properly classified and treated for safe disposal or discharge, and identify when process adjustments are needed. The Lab Analyst advises and supports Shift Supervisors by troubleshooting laboratory instrumentation, conducting and communicating finished-product analyses, and helping resolve production-process and environmental concerns. The position works from 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. on a rotating 2/2/3/2 schedule. Starting pay for the Level I position is $32.31 per hour, with a $1.00-per-hour night shift differential, full benefits, and monthly bonus potential.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED from an accredited school.
At least 2 years of previous work experience in a laboratory or similar production operation.
Ability to read and write, with average math skills.
Strong interpersonal skills, including verbal and non-verbal communication and teamwork.
Self-motivation, initiative, ability to work well under pressure, and a sense of urgency.
Willingness and ability, with or without reasonable accommodation, to wear respiratory protection directly against the skin and other PPE, including a hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, boots, and hearing protection, in a hot work environment.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related field from an accredited college or university.
Previous experience in a manufacturing environment.
Previous experience in metals sample preparation.
Previous experience in ICP-OES and SS-OES analysis and maintenance.

Responsibilities

Monitor systems to identify and resolve developing problems as quickly as possible.
Test and analyze samples for sulfur content.
Collect, prepare, and analyze smelting-process samples.
Collect, crush, prepare, and analyze slag samples for TCLP analysis.
Conduct total-composition laboratory analyses on materials and chemicals, including slag, carbon, sulfur analyzer (DOCs), desulf filtercake furnace feed samples (ICP-OES), and gravimetric moisture analysis of reverb furnace feed samples.
Calibrate and perform control checks on refining analytical instruments (SS-OES) and pH and ORP probes.
Operate and check high-volume air monitors.
Assist in establishing operating procedures for the laboratory and other company areas as needed.
Advise shift managers on technical operating problems.
Assist shift supervisors and lead persons in training production staff on production, safety, and quality issues.
Take immediate action on life-threatening safety violations or those posing a risk of serious injury; otherwise, advise the shift supervisor of safety and procedural violations or variances.
Maintain laboratory cleanliness.
Participate in meetings, teams, and training seminars.
Complete inventory management and escalate inventory deficiencies as needed.
Troubleshoot ICP-OES and SS-OES issues with the team and manager, identify root causes, and resolve issues promptly and efficiently.
For Level II Lab Analysts: review and authorize data; train new employees in the Lab Analyst role as requested; support special laboratory projects; and learn and apply advanced technical and laboratory concepts relevant to the industry or organization.
Perform other related duties as assigned.