About Careertakes

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Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.

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Overview

Confidential Client is seeking a Lab Technician for a contract-to-hire, onsite role in Detroit, IL. This hands-on position supports analytical and environmental laboratory testing—primarily focused on materials and product failure analysis for paints and coatings. The role follows established lab procedures while also supporting investigative, project-based work that informs product quality and corrective actions.

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Key Details

• Location: Detroit, IL (onsite)
• Employment type: Contract to Hire (CONTRACTOR)
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• Pay range: $21.00 - $23.00 per hour
• No travel required

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Primary Responsibilities

• Perform quantitative and qualitative analyses across physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry.
• Run instrumental and wet chemistry tests following standard operating procedures.
• Test raw materials and finished products to verify quality and specification compliance.
• Conduct failure analysis on returned products to identify root causes.
• Operate and maintain instruments such as FTIR, GPC, ICP, GC-FID, and microscopes.
• Work in both analytical and environmental labs; learn and apply methods across areas.
• Design and set up experiments using the scientific method; ensure reproducible procedures.
• Accurately document procedures, observations, and data; prepare clear reports.
• Interpret results, identify trends/anomalies, and recommend corrective actions.
• Collaborate with the analytical team on forensic-style investigations of product performance.
• Present findings to leadership and participate in follow-up actions.
• Maintain lab safety, good housekeeping, and compliance with quality standards.

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Essential Skills & Qualifications

• Strong foundation in chemistry or biochemistry with hands-on lab skills.
• Proficiency in wet chemistry techniques and instrumental analysis.
• Experience or familiarity with FTIR, GPC, ICP, GC-FID, and microscopes.
• Ability to design controlled experiments and analyze data using the scientific method.
• Accurate sample preparation, measurement, and safe chemical handling.
• Strong attention to detail and excellent record-keeping habits.
• Critical thinking and investigative mindset for root-cause analysis.
• Clear written and verbal communication for report writing and presentations.
• Able to work independently on project-based assignments and within a small team.

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Preferred / Additional Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry strongly preferred (Biology considered less favorably).
• Associate degree or equivalent experience may be considered with relevant lab background.
• Experience in paints, coatings, or related materials—especially in failure analysis—is highly desirable.
• Prior research or internship experience in analytical or investigative laboratory work.
• Familiarity with failure analysis methodologies and product investigations.

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Work Environment & Culture

• State-of-the-art analytical lab environment with QC, R&D, and Analytical labs.
• Clean, organized facility with an atmosphere similar to pharmaceutical labs.
• Work is a mix of routine testing and investigative, project-driven analysis.
• Collaborative small-team setting with opportunities for cross-training (including environmental testing).
• Pace varies by project; role rewards curiosity, initiative, and methodical problem solving.

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Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly pay: $21.00 - $23.00/hr (range dependent on experience and qualifications).
• Eligible temporary-role benefits may include: medical, dental & vision; 401(k); HSA; voluntary life & AD&D; short- and long-term disability; transportation benefits; employee assistance program; paid time off (eligibility and availability vary by classification and tenure).
• Individual offers consider qualifications, experience, geographic location, and internal equity.

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Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency

Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.

If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.