Laboratory Technician

Location: Chicagoland/NW Indiana
Duration: 6 months, possible extension
Shift Schedule: 12‑hour rotating schedule (7 days on / 3 days off / 7 nights on / 4 days off)
Level I Pay Rate: $45-50/hr
Level II Pay Rate: $50-58/hr

Position Summary
The Refinery Laboratory Technician Level 1 and Level 2 are responsible for supporting laboratory operations by performing routine analyses and tests on refinery samples. This entry/mid-level role ensures the quality and safety of products through accurate testing, documentation, and adherence to laboratory protocols.
This proposal recommends staffing contracting for the Whiting Refinery Laboratory to support operations for a period of up to six months. The staffing plan is designed to ensure continuous coverage and maintain exacting standards of laboratory performance during this period.
Proposed Staffing Requirements:
Seeking five (5) to six (6) Level 1 Laboratory Technicians and four (4) to five (5) Level 2
Laboratory Technicians to perform the following roles: (3) Data Control Technicians, (3) Fuels Technicians,(1) Knock Lab Technician, (1) Asphalt Technician, (1) Analytical Technician
 
Key Responsibilities

• Collect, prepare, and analyze samples from various refinery units according to established procedures.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, such as spectrometers,
• chromatographs, and balances.
• Record test results accurately and maintain proper documentation for quality assurance and regulatory compliance.
• Assist in calibration and routine maintenance of laboratory instruments.
• Follow safety guidelines and maintain a clean, organized work environment.
• Communicate findings and report anomalies to senior technicians or supervisors.
• Level 2 Responsibilities:
  • Coordinate daily activities and ensure timely completion of project.
  • Communicate effectively with team members, stakeholders, and external partners.
  • Prepare reports, presentations, and documentation as required.
  • Identify areas for improvement and recommend solutions to optimize workflows.
  • Participate in meetings and contribute to decision-making processes.

 
Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree in chemistry or a related field preferred.
• Basic understanding of laboratory safety protocols and chemical handling procedures.
• Strong mindfulness and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Level 2 Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a challenging environment.

 
Role‑Specific Responsibilities
Data Control

• Program and manage samples in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
• Conduct appearance, haze, gravity, and pH testing
• Collect samples throughout the refinery
• Operate and drive the sample truck

Knock Lab

• Operate Motor Octane Number (MON) and Research Octane Number (RON) engines
• Perform octane testing and document results

Fuels Laboratory
Perform testing including:

• Automated OptiPMD Microdistillation
• Automated D86 Distillation
• Reid Vapor Pressure
• Fast Simulated Distillation
• Existent Gum (Jet Evaporation)
• FTIR analysis of gasoline and diesel
• Copper corrosion (liquid petroleum products and LPG)
• Silver corrosion
• D525 and Rapid Oxidation Stability testing
• Automated Saybolt color determination

Asphalt Laboratory
Perform asphalt and binder testing including:

• PAV BBR
• Original, RTFO, and PAV DSR
• RTFO mass change
• Flash point (COC and PM)
• API gravity (D4)
• Penetration testing at 77°F
• Specific gravity, viscosity, cloud point, freeze point, pour point
• Brookfield viscosity at 135°C
• Operation of PAV ovens

Analytical Laboratory
Perform advanced analytical testing including:

• ASTM color
• Smoke point
• Flash point
• JFTOT
• Acid gas and mercaptans
• MSEP
• LPG residue
• MCRT
• NACE
• TAN and jet fuel acidity
• NIR analysis
• Bromine, amines
• Viscosity
• Water & sediment
• Ash

 
Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to work in an industrial refinery environment
• Ability to stand for long periods and handle laboratory equipment
• Use of required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.