1

Oil Analysis Lab Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Sr Technician Specialist

Columbia, MD · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Performs chemical and/or physical analyses or scientific tests using both routine and special ... Experience with edible oils, catalysis, design and operation of lab-scale catalytic reactors.

Sr Technician Specialist

Columbia, MD · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Performs chemical and/or physical analyses or scientific tests using both routine and special ... Experience with edible oils, catalysis, design and operation of lab-scale catalytic reactors.

Oil Analysis Lab information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Oil Analysis Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To excel as an Oil Analysis Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of chemistry, laboratory procedures, and sample analysis, generally supported by a relevant science degree or diploma. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), spectrometers, viscometers, and certification such as ASTM or ISO lab standards is important. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set outstanding technicians apart. These abilities are crucial for ensuring accurate test results, maintaining equipment reliability, and supporting effective decision-making in industrial environments.

What is the difference between Oil Analysis Lab vs Oil Technician?

AspectOil Analysis LabOil Technician
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications or training in lab analysisRequires mechanical or technical certifications, often with hands-on training
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting with focus on sample testing and analysisIndustrial or maintenance environment performing oil sampling and equipment checks
Industry UsageUsed by companies to analyze oil samples for wear and contaminationInvolved in collecting samples and maintaining equipment in industrial settings

In summary, an Oil Analysis Lab specializes in testing and analyzing oil samples in a lab environment, while an Oil Technician focuses on sampling, maintenance, and operational tasks on-site. Both roles are essential in oil management but differ in their primary functions and work settings.

What is an Oil Analysis Lab?

An Oil Analysis Lab is a specialized laboratory that tests and analyzes samples of lubricating oils used in machinery and vehicles. The purpose of these tests is to assess the condition of the oil and detect any contaminants, wear metals, or degradation. This information helps organizations monitor equipment health, schedule maintenance, and prevent costly breakdowns. Oil analysis can extend equipment life, improve reliability, and reduce maintenance costs.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in an oil analysis laboratory, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in an oil analysis lab often encounter challenges such as handling a high volume of samples, ensuring precise and accurate test results, and maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols when dealing with potentially hazardous materials. To address these challenges, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, follow standardized lab procedures, and stay up-to-date with the latest laboratory technologies. Team collaboration and clear communication are essential, as lab staff frequently work together to interpret results and troubleshoot equipment issues. Continuous training and attention to detail help maintain quality and efficiency in this fast-paced environment.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Oil Analysis Lab jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Oil Analysis Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Oil Analysis Lab job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.
Sr Technician Specialist

Sr Technician Specialist

W. R. Grace & Co.

Columbia, MD • On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Annual Wage Range: $66,744.00  - $91,773.00 
Other Compensation:  Eligibility for the Short-Term Incentive program and other applicable bonuses 
Benefits: U.S. Employee Benefits Summary (grace.com)

Grace, a Standard Industries company, is a leading global supplier of catalysts, engineered materials and fine chemicals. We provide innovative products, technologies and services which our customers use to manufacture everyday products like renewable fuels, pharmaceuticals, toothpaste, cosmetics, food packaging, beer, edible oils and more. Our thousands of employees help shape a better future at our global headquarters in Columbia, MD and locations worldwide.

Job Description

The Sr Technician Specialist will support the Materials Technologies business in various Research and Development (R&D) projects. This role involves performing laboratory work on Grace Silica products which are used in a wide range of applications including coatings, electronics, renewable diesel, edible oil, renewable diesel, oil and gas, catalysis, metal processing, and many more. This role will report to the Sr. Lab Supervisor and is based on-site in Columbia, MD.

Responsibilities
  • Manages day-to-day tasks and operations across multiple laboratories.
  • Assists engineers and scientists with a variety of laboratory tasks.
  • Performs chemical and/or physical analyses or scientific tests using both routine and special techniques in compliance with all safety standards.
  • Collects, analyzes, and processes laboratory samples.
  • Records results of tests, organizes data, performs basic computations, and prepares reports and analyses using standard procedures and guidelines.
  • Provides technical support to Sales, Marketing, Technical Service and Manufacturing organizations as needed.
  • Actively participates in required local safety program, along with the ability to work safely and maintain a clean and orderly lab environment. 
  • Installs, operates, maintains, troubleshoots and repairs laboratory test equipment, apparatus, systems and supplies.
  • Travel less than 10%
Physical Requirements and Environment
  • Must be able to stand, walk, sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, and climb stairs.
  • Must be willing to wear PPE (Personal Protective equipment) including but not limited to laboratory gloves, lab coat, protective eyewear, hard hat, steel-toed boots, hearing protection, Level A suit, full face respirator.
  • Ability to work in a high hazard environment, including elevated spaces, confined spaces, extreme temperatures, and noisy surroundings.
  • Ability to follow safety protocols and standards working in a laboratory environment with highly hazardous materials.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or related technical field
  • Or Associates Degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or related technical field and 2+ years related technical experience will also be considered.
  • Knowledge of basic chemical and engineering principles. 
  • Familiarity with computer programs such as MS Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS).
  • Experience with edible oils, catalysis, design and operation of lab-scale catalytic reactors.
  • Proficient with operation of typical computer-controlled laboratory instrumentation.
  • Diligent at keeping written and/or electronic records.
  • Some prior knowledge of inorganic chemistry.
  • Good manual dexterity and mechanical aptitude.
  • Strong knowledge of basic wet-chemistry laboratory techniques.
  • Ability to work well in a team setting.
  • Good interpersonal skills and exceptional oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work with minimum supervision.
  • Ability to communicate with other functions, including sales and marketing on regular basis.
  • English language proficiency.
  • Commitment to maintaining a safe and organized laboratory environment.
Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance and Disability
  • Grace Wellness Program
  • Flexible Workplace with maximum overlap with the core hours
  • Retirement Plans 
  • 401(k) Company Match
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • Parental Leave
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Company Donation Match Program

Grace is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. Please, no phone calls or emails. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Grace via email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of Grace. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Grace as a result of the referral or through other means.