Lab Assistant

ArcWear Division - Louisville, KY

Join a Team That Helps Keep Workers Safe

ArcWear, a division of Kinectrics AES, is a leading provider of testing services for flame-resistant clothing, arc flash protective equipment, and other personal protective equipment (PPE) used by utility, industrial, and safety professionals. Our testing helps ensure that the products workers rely on every day perform as intended in demanding environments.

We are seeking a Lab Assistant to support our textile and PPE testing team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys hands-on work, pays close attention to detail, and wants to gain experience in a professional laboratory environment.

What You'll Do

As a Lab Assistant, you will help prepare, organize, track, and maintain textile and PPE samples prior to testing. Your work will play a critical role in ensuring testing accuracy, laboratory efficiency, and quality results for our clients.

Sample Preparation & Processing

• Receive, log, label, and track incoming textile and PPE samples.
• Prepare fabric and garment specimens for testing by cutting, measuring, labeling, and organizing samples according to established procedures.
• Condition samples under prescribed environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, and wash/dry cycles.
• Ensure samples are properly prepared and ready for testing.

Laboratory Support

• Verify sample quantities, configurations, and associated documentation before testing.
• Maintain an organized workflow and preparation area.
• Assist laboratory staff with special projects and research support activities as needed.
• Help maintain laboratory tools, equipment, and workspaces in a clean and organized condition.

Documentation & Tracking

• Maintain accurate records and specimen tracking documentation.
• Ensure sample identification aligns with testing plans and client requirements.
• Identify and communicate any discrepancies before testing begins.

Shipping & Logistics

• Prepare tested samples for return shipment to clients.
• Coordinate sample movement throughout the laboratory to prevent loss, damage, or contamination.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least one year of work experience in any professional environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to follow written procedures consistently.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Authorization to work permanently in the United States without current or future sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Coursework or experience in biology, chemistry, laboratory sciences, environmental sciences, engineering technology, quality control, manufacturing, textiles, or related fields.
• Experience working in a laboratory, quality inspection, manufacturing, production, or testing environment.
• Familiarity with good laboratory practices (GLP).
• Experience handling samples, materials, or product testing processes.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, reach, and perform hands-on sample preparation activities throughout the workday, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Why Join ArcWear?

• Monday-Friday schedule
• Day shift work
• Professional laboratory environment
• Paid training
• Hands-on technical experience
• Opportunity to learn specialized textile and PPE testing processes
• Collaborative, team-oriented culture
• Career growth opportunities within laboratory operations and testing functions

Benefits

We offer a competitive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and financial future, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Company-paid life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• 401(k) with 5% company match
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Optional benefits such as legal insurance, critical illness coverage, fertility benefits, and more

Compensation

The anticipated starting pay range for this position is $16-$18 per hour, based on qualifications, experience, and local market considerations.

Pre-employment background check and drug screening are required for selected candidates.

Career Growth

This position provides valuable experience in:

• Laboratory operations
• Textile and PPE testing
• Quality systems and sample management
• Research and testing support
• Materials evaluation processes

Successful employees may have opportunities to advance into Laboratory Technician, Testing Technician, or other technical laboratory roles.

Kinectrics AES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees and applicants.