Company Description

Harken Research is an ISO17025 accredited testing laboratory located in Los Angeles with two core business units: consumer product testing and pharmaceutical contract research. Within the consumer product testing unit dietary supplements, food, and cosmetics are the focus – with additional testing services catering to other industries. Our strengths are our ability to offer customized testing and problem solving to address client needs; excellent customer service; and quick turnaround times.

Summary

Harken Research is seeking a Metals Chemistry Technician to support heavy metals and elemental analysis of dietary supplements, foods, and other consumer products. This role will focus primarily on sample preparation and analysis for ICP-MS testing, including digestion, sample handling, and data review.

The ideal candidate has 1–2 years of laboratory experience and strong attention to detail. Experience with ICP-MS instrumentation is highly preferred.

This is a hands-on laboratory role in a fast-paced testing environment where accuracy, organization, and efficiency are essential.

Duties

Perform sample preparation and digestion for heavy metals and elemental analysis
Operate and maintain ICP-MS instrumentation (training provided if needed)
Prepare calibration standards, QC samples, and blanks
Assist with instrument runs, sample sequences, and data processing
Review analytical results for accuracy and completeness
Maintain organized sample tracking and labeling to prevent mix-ups
Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and laboratory quality systems
Maintain a clean and organized work area
Assist with troubleshooting basic analytical issues when they arise
Communicate with scientists and supervisors regarding sample status or potential issues
Perform extractions of a wide variety of matrices including dietary supplements, beverages, and food samples and troubleshoot any solubility issues encountered.
Help accessioning team weigh out, photograph, and homogenize samples as needed.
Take inventory of lab supplies
Help with lab waste disposal
Additional duties may include: performing sample extractions and wet chemistry assays

Essential Functions

Working in a stationary position for extended periods of time
Working on a computer for extended periods of time
Working in a laboratory for extended periods of time
Maneuvering objects weighing up to 25 pounds in the course of routine laboratory work
Communication with employees including laboratory, administrative, and sales personnel; ownership; vendors; contractors; and clients

Qualifications

Associate’s or Bachelors degree in relevant field (such as Chemistry or Chemical Engineering)
Experience working in an analytical testing laboratory is preferred
Experience with wet chemistry is preferred
Technical proficiency with pipetting and using an analytical balance
Experience with HPLC is a plus
Accuracy and attention to detail
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong computer skills including email, Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in a regulated environment (ISO 17025, GLP, or GMP)

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $23.00 - $28.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Experience:

Laboratory: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

Pasadena, CA 91105 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

Pasadena, CA 91105: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Harken Research

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