Please send a cover letter explaining why you want to work at Vanguard Laboratory.
Who We Are
Vanguard Laboratory is a small, family-owned, analytical laboratory located in Olympia, WA. We analyze peptides, supplements, raw materials, food, agricultural products, drinking water, and environmental samples. We are accredited by the Washington State Department of Ecology and A2LA ISO/IEC 17025.
We are a tight-knit, high-pe
Job Overview
We are seeking an entry-level Laboratory Technician (0–2 years experience) with a strong interest in wet chemistry and water testing. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build a career in an analytical laboratory environment.
This role will focus primarily on wet bench water analysis, including routine environmental testing, with opportunities to expand into advanced instrumentation such as HPLC, icp-ms, lcmsms, GCMS and other analytical platforms.
You will be expected to take initiative, adapt quickly, and contribute to multiple areas of the lab as needed.
Schedule
- Full-time (40 hours/week)
- M-F occasional weekends
Responsibilities
- Perform wet chemistry analyses on water samples, including:
- pH
- Turbidity
- Conductivity
- Nitrates
- Tannins
- Water activity
- Conduct sample preparation for a variety of matrices
- Perform basic data analysis and ensure accurate documentation
- Maintain compliance with ISO 17025, NELAC, and USP standards
- Support and eventually operate analytical instrumentation such as:
HPLC
GC-FID
IC
ICP-MS
UV/VIS
- Learn and follow laboratory SOPs and quality systems
What We’re Looking For
- 0–2 years of laboratory experience (academic or professional)
- Degree (or near completion) in:
- Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Microbiology
- Physics
- Or related field
- Strong attention to detail and data integrity
- Ability to multitask and adapt in a fast-paced startup environment
- Highly motivated, proactive, and eager to learn
What You Bring
- A genuine passion for science and analytical work
- A growth mindset and commitment to continuous improvement
- Willingness to take ownership and contribute to a small team environment
What We Offer
- A collaborative, growth-focused company culture
- Hands-on experience across multiple analytical techniques
- Cross-training on advanced instrumentation (including HPLC)
- Opportunities to develop and validate new methods under ISO 17025
Benefits:
- 401(k) with employer match
- Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- Paid Time Off
- Professional development support (conferences, training, etc.)
- Flexible scheduling options
Performance Incentives:
- Bonus program: $500–$2,000 per successfully added method to our scope
- Merit-based raises tied to company and individual performance
Pay: $18.00 - $23.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Safety equipment provided
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Did you include a cover letter? Resumes without them are discarded without being reviewed.
Ability to Commute:
- Olympia, WA 98502 (Required)
Work Location: In person
