Job Summary
The Chemistry Prep Technician is responsible for accurately preparing samples of construction materials such as concrete, rock and aggregate for the petrographic and chemical analysis under the guidance of senior laboratory staff. This role is essential for ensuring sample integrity, consistency, and safety in every test we perform. The Chemistry Prep Technician follows established protocols for sample handling and preparation, and quality control, which are foundational to delivering accurate and reliable test results.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Reasonable accommodations or workable solutions may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
- Cut, grind, and polish samples of concrete, rock, and other materials with high precision, following specific protocols to ensure samples are of optimal size, shape, and cleanliness for testing. in accordance with lab protocols. to support chemical testing and analysis.
- Accurately transport, measure, and safely prepare chemicals necessary for sample treatment, adhering to established handling procedures, including personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Operate, clean, and maintain laboratory equipment, such as saws, grinders, mixers, scales, and other preparation tools ensuring consistent quality and optimal equipment functionality.
- Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) for sample preparation and handling, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
- Record data meticulously at each preparation and testing stage, ensuring accurate and comprehensive documentation for lab records, quality control, and compliance.
- Work closely with the petrographic and chemistry teams providing prepared samples and promptly ensuring all processes are aligned with project timelines.
- Follow all federal, state, and local safety regulations and AET’s internal health and safety policies, including proper waste disposal and chemical handling procedures.
Other Areas of Accountability
- Adhere to all laboratory safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe chemical handling practices.
- Participate in team meetings and training sessions, and assist in onboarding new lab personnel as needed, enhancing knowledge of lab procedures and safety standards.
- Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to improve laboratory processes, actively organizing tools and materials for operational efficiency.
- Actively maintain the quality of work, including accurate documentation and reporting of laboratory findings.
- Uphold a high level of productivity and efficiency to meet project deadlines and departmental goals.
- Keep updated on advances in chemistry and materials science relevant to construction materials.
Supervisory Responsibility
Qualifications and Education Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Previous experience in sample preparation or a laboratory environment preferred but not required.
Preferred Skills
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to perform precise sample preparation and testing.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, supporting chemists, petrographers, and lab personnel in delivering high-quality results.
- Ability to follow detailed instructions, maintain accuracy, and work efficiently under time constraints.
Work Environment
This position is primarily based in a laboratory setting, with occasional fieldwork at construction sites or outdoor environments. Work may involve exposure to dust, chemicals, and noisy equipment, with safety protocols strictly followed. Standard office equipment, as well as specialized petrographic equipment and chemicals, will be used regularly.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands or fingers, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
AAP/EEO Statement
It is the policy of AET to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.