Entrylevel Lab Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sterling Labs (Environmental Monitoring & Technologies, LLC) is a DoD, NELAP, ANAB, and AIHA-accredited environmental laboratory providing high-integrity analytical data through state-of-the-art technology and validated testing methodologies. For more than 40 years, our work has supported initiatives that protect human health and the environment.

Our success is built on client partnerships and scientific excellence. We collaborate with environmental consultants, engineering firms, and government agencies to deliver reliable, timely analytical results that support regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship. From wastewater testing in the greater Chicago area to nationwide projects with Department of Defense partners, our commitment to quality and innovation continues to drive our growth.

When you join Sterling Labs, you become part of a team of scientists, professionals, and technical specialists who share one purpose:

WE PRESERVE THE PLANET TO PROTECT THE FUTURE

This purpose shapes our culture, drives our decisions, and guides how we serve our clients and support one another. We believe that meaningful progress comes from integrity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improvement—principles that are reflected in our core values.

Our Core Values

• Integrity in Everything We Do - We act with honesty, transparency, and accountability.
• Customer Focused - We prioritize our clients’ needs and value their feedback.
• We are never satisfied - We seek better ways to serve our clients and support our employees through innovation and growth.

At Sterling Labs, we know our employees are the foundation of our success. We strive to provide a supportive, inclusive, and growth-oriented workplace where every individual is encouraged to learn, innovate, and advance.

Employee Benefits

Sterling Labs offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and well-being of our full-time employees:

• Healthcare Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, and short- and long-term disability coverage
• Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)

Equal Employment Opportunity

Sterling Labs is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, sex, age, disability, marital or family status, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Recruitment Notice

Sterling Labs does not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party agencies. Please do not forward resumes to company email addresses or employees. Sterling Labs is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited submissions.

Job Summary

The Environmental Laboratory Technician - Wet Chem is responsible for preparing, digesting, and analyzing samples in compliance with laboratory SOPs to deliver accurate and timely results to clients. This role involves managing sample workloads, calibrating instruments, and maintaining equipment to ensure high-quality data. Located in Des Plaines, IL, the position supports operational efficiency while ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Primary Tasks

• Reactive Cyanide
• Reactive Sulfide
• Sulfide by Methylene Blue
• Total Sulfide

Secondary Tasks

• Alkalinity,
• TSS
• TKN

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, analyze, and document samples to meet client deadlines, using calibrated equipment and following SOPs.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory instruments daily to ensure reliable data.
• Create and label reagents and standards for accurate testing.
• Input results into Sterling Labs’ LIMS and review data for quality and accuracy.
• Report findings in Element for client access and decision-making.
• Track inventory and order supplies to maintain uninterrupted operations.
• Dispose of samples safely per SOPs to comply with environmental standards.
• Clean and maintain equipment to ensure optimal performance and compliance.
• Communicate workload and data issues to the manager to resolve concerns efficiently.
• Support root cause investigations and corrective actions to uphold quality.
• Assist with other tasks as assigned to meet team goals.

Instruments Used

• pH Meters
• Laboratory Balances
• Bomb Calorimeters
• Pipettes
• Refrigerated Storage Units
• LIMS E7

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related field preferred. Coursework or lab experience in chemistry is beneficial.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel).
• Familiarity with Element™ LIMS or similar systems preferred.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Organized, self-motivated, and able to multitask in a dynamic environment.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of standing while performing wet chemistry analyses, sample preparation, and instrument calibration.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle pipettes, glassware, balances, and laboratory instruments with precision.
• Must be able to lift, carry, and move reagent containers, sample batches, and laboratory equipment weighing up to 25 pounds using proper and safe lifting techniques.
• Occasional bending, reaching, and stooping to access fume hoods, storage cabinets, or bench-level instruments.
• Must be able to visually inspect samples, color changes, and instrument readings accurately; specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Must be able to work safely around acids, bases, and other hazardous laboratory chemicals while wearing required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coats, and safety glasses.
• Ability to maintain concentration and attention to detail during repetitive analytical and data entry tasks.
• Must be able to communicate clearly and professionally with coworkers and supervisors regarding workload, data quality, and safety compliance.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.