LABORATORY TECHNICIAN (Part-Time, Entry Level)
Position Type: Part-Time, Permanent
Hours: Approx 30 hrs / week
Education Level: High School Diploma/GED
Pay: Competitive hourly rate, based on experience
This is a permanent position and is not intended as a temporary job, seasonal position, or internship. Because this position requires a year of extensive on-the-job training, we are seeking someone who is genuinely interested in learning the role and building long-term experience with our company.
Apex Oil Lab is a locally owned oil analysis laboratory offering testing for new and used lubricants for maintenance and reliability purposes. We assist companies in industries such as Automotive, Manufacturing, Transportation, Oil & Gas, Construction, and Power Generation. We provide exceptional service and accurate results for customers with high value and highly critical equipment. This is accomplished by a highly collaborative and supportive team focused on efficiency and quality.
WHY JOIN APEX OIL LAB?
- Established local company
- No nights/weekends
- Structured training
- Stable permanent employment
- Supportive team
JOB DESCRIPTION
This is a dynamic, dual-responsibility role split between hands-on laboratory testing and high-precision data management. You will be responsible for the full lifecycle of the sample: receiving and logging industrial oil samples into our database, preparing and running them on specialized analytical instruments, and accurately transcribing the results into our laboratory information management system. The ideal candidate possesses the meticulous focus needed for error-free data entry and the technical aptitude required to operate specialized laboratory equipment, while adhering to protocols to ensure the highest accuracy and reliability.
Facility hours are Mon - Fri, 9-5. This a permanent position, offering part-time shifts (approx 30 hrs/week). Our team members must be flexible to accommodate staffing needs.
**NOTE: We are NOT seeking students as class schedules will interfere with our staff scheduling. We are also NOT seeking applicants on the medical/healthcare/bio track.**
All work is performed onsite. Applicants are strongly recommended to live within short commute of our location in Kentwood (49512).
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Data Entry & Administrative Responsibilities (50%):
- Organize, clean, and prepare sample bottles for processing.
- Transcribe details from information forms accurately
- Organize and route samples to the laboratory for processing.
- Identify missing information or discrepancies and follow up with customers as needed.
- Accurately transcribe raw laboratory test results into the LIS.
- Complete database tasks, including data entry, record updates, and maintaining accurate documentation.
- Handle inbound and outbound phone calls and emails.
- Provide professional and helpful customer support.
- Assist with inventory management and prepare outgoing shipments.
- Communicate issues, discrepancies, and workflow concerns to management.
- Perform additional administrative duties as assigned.
Laboratory Responsibilities (50%):
- Follow established operating procedures, SOPs, and instructions precisely and consistently.
- Operate, clean, and maintain fluid testing instruments as trained.
- Process test samples efficiently and accurately to meet daily deadlines.
- Follow established protocols for sample handling, testing, documentation, and quality control.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
- Accurately record and review laboratory test results.
- Identify and communicate testing irregularities or issues requiring attention.
- Work collaboratively with team members to maintain efficient laboratory operations and manage workflow.
- Perform additional laboratory duties as assigned by management.
QUALIFICATIONS & KEY QUALITIES
We are looking for someone who is eager to learn, takes pride in accurate work, and is committed to developing long-term experience with our company.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy: Carefully reviews information, identifies discrepancies, and takes pride in doing things correctly. We are a lab. Accuracy is paramount!
- Excellent data entry, typing, and math skills: Typing speed of 50-60wpm and 10-key proficiency required.
- Ability to learn and retain instructions: Listens carefully, takes notes or develops personal reference methods, and performs all tasks correctly.
- Consistent adherence to procedures: Follows verbal and written instructions, SOPs, and detailed multi-step procedures accurately and without unauthorized deviations.
- Independent and dependable: Demonstrates the ability to apply training, complete assigned responsibilities accurately, and work independently as proficiency develops.
- Organized and adaptable: Manages multiple tasks, maintains an orderly workflow, and prioritizes accuracy while meeting deadlines.
- Strong communication and teamwork: Communicates professionally, asks questions when clarification is needed, and contributes positively to a collaborative team.
- Prior laboratory or production experience preferred.
Physical & Environmental Requirements
- Willingness to work in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to petroleum products, fumes, odors, mists, and dusts.
- Ability to wear required PPE.
- Ability to move or lift up to 50 lbs.
- Visual acuity and ability to distinguish colors.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and perform bending, stretching, kneeling, and lifting as required.
Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Apex Oil Lab is an independent oil analysis lab focused on speed, accuracy and superior customer service. We provide fast, reliable, and actionable oil and fluid analysis to commercial clients in a wide range of industries, throughout the country.
