Lab Technician

VALTO Inc•Channahon, IL

37d•$26 - $29•Onsite

About The Position

Valto is seeking a Lab Technician to perform laboratory testing, support technical and quality improvement projects, investigate product quality issues, and assist with process optimization. This role helps maintain product quality standards, supports corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives, and serves as a backup for QA Technicians as needed to ensure uninterrupted quality operations. The Lab Technician collaborates closely with the Quality Manager, Quality Coordinator, Technical Manager, and Plant Chemist, providing timely updates and reporting project results. This role also partners Operations and, when needed, communicates technical findings and quality-related information to customers to support product performance, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction.

Requirements

A self-starter mindset with the ability to work independently and effectively manage priorities.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including knowledge of statistical methods and their application in quality improvement.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments.
Proficiency with computers and data analysis tools.
Dependable attendance, a positive attitude, and a commitment to teamwork and continuous improvement.
Ability to safely perform job-related physical activities, including standing, walking, stooping, climbing, handling materials, and lifting up to 60 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a scientific discipline such as Chemistry, Biology, or Physics preferred; Associate's degree in Chemistry or a related field with relevant laboratory experience will also be considered.

Responsibilities

Champion a safe work environment by following all laboratory and manufacturing safety procedures and properly utilizing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Support product quality and process excellence through laboratory testing, analysis, and troubleshooting activities.
Develop and execute test plans for trial materials, alternative raw materials, product evaluations, and issue resolution.
Investigate customer complaints, product concerns, internal non-conformances, and process deviations to identify root causes and support corrective actions.
Analyze and summarize test results using tools such as Excel and Minitab, providing clear, data-driven recommendations to stakeholders.
Perform color matching, color control, slurry formulation, and specialized studies to ensure color consistency and product performance.
Utilize precision measuring, weighing, and color instrumentation to verify product specifications and quality standards.
Maintain a strong understanding of raw materials—including catalysts, promoters, resins, monomers, pigments, and fillers—and their impact on product quality and manufacturing processes.
Support and maintain the quality management system by assisting with controlled documents, forms, internal audits, and compliance activities.
Serve as a laboratory hygiene program administrator and help maintain an organized, clean, and safe work environment following 5S principles.
Partner closely with production, quality, and technical teams to implement continuous improvement initiatives that enhance product quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Provide backup support for QA Technicians to ensure uninterrupted quality operations and testing coverage.
Utilize business systems, including KBM, to accurately document and communicate quality-related information.
Demonstrate strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, collaboration, and communication skills while working independently and as part of a team.
Maintain flexibility to support varying shifts and business needs as required.