Job Title: Technical Lab AssociateJob Description The Technical Laboratory Associate plays a vital role in supporting laboratory-based research, process development, and manufacturing support functions. This position involves hands-on testing, analytical evaluation, and verification of materials to ensure they meet defined requirements. The role includes quality testing, investigation of process variations, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to maintain performance and compliance standards. The ideal candidate will be organized, analytical, and comfortable working in a dynamic lab setting, both independently and as part of a team. Responsibilities + Carry out laboratory testing to support research projects and manufacturing operations. + Execute quality verification and certification testing on internally produced and customer-provided materials. + Investigate and resolve process inconsistencies through bench-scale testing and data evaluation. + Work closely with production personnel and supervisory staff to evaluate and approve finished materials. + Communicate with external clients and suppliers regarding analytical results and material certifications. + Collect, document, and manage data generated from both in-house and third-party testing activities. + Generate and distribute technical summaries and test reports to internal teams and external partners. + Support internal audit activities and assist with adherence to laboratory quality systems and procedures. Essential Skills + Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related physical science discipline. + At least one year of hands-on laboratory experience in an educational, industrial, or research environment. + Demonstrated ability to plan, perform, and document experiments with minimal supervision. + Experience analyzing experimental data and preparing clear, well-organized technical reports. + Capable of interpreting written specifications and developing test plans to verify compliance. + Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly present technical information. + Proven ability to work effectively both independently and within cross-functional teams. + Professional communication style when working with leadership, colleagues, customers, and suppliers. + Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation such as FTIR, DSC, TGA, chromatography, or related techniques. + Familiarity with regulated quality systems such as ISO or GMP standards. + Previous involvement in materials testing, quality labs, or manufacturing support operations. Work Environment The position is primarily laboratory-based and involves routine interaction with chemicals, analytical equipment, and adherence to standard safety practices. The role may require standing for extended periods and occasional handling or lifting of materials (30-50 pounds). The work environment is a unionized setting within a foam manufacturing facility. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Jessup, MD. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $28.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Jessup,MD. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Feb 4, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com (%20actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com) for other accommodation options.