Sample Handler

JOB DESCRIPTION
As a Sample Handler, you will play a key role in supporting lab operations by managing the post-receiving flow of samples throughout the facility. This position is highly hands-on and operational, focused on organizing, moving, storing, and tracking materials to ensure they are ready for testing.
You will work closely with laboratory, engineering, and operations teams to maintain efficiency, accuracy, and compliance in all sample handling processes. This is an onsite role based at our Northbrook laboratory.
RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage the post-receiving lifecycle of samples, including verification, labeling, data entry, storage, internal movement, and final disposition
• Physically move samples from receiving areas to storage locations, including cages, racks, and shelving units
• Operate material handling equipment such as pallet jacks and forklifts to transport samples across the facility
• Ensure samples are properly stored, organized, and accessible to support testing timelines
• Perform high-volume data entry and maintain accurate records in tracking systems
• Communicate regularly via email and phone with internal teams and customers regarding sample status, returns, and pickups
• Verify samples against project requirements and escalate discrepancies to the appropriate team
• Support tracking and reporting of operational metrics and sample activity
• Maintain compliance with UL quality standards, accreditation requirements, and internal procedures
• Keep storage and warehouse areas clean, organized, and safe
• Conduct periodic inventory checks and report missing or damaged samples
• Provide general material handling support to lab, engineering, and shipping/receiving teams
• Assist with onboarding and training of new team members as needed
• Identify opportunities to improve workflows and efficiency

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED required
• Experience in material handling, warehouse operations, logistics, or laboratory support preferred
• Ability to operate or willingness to learn material handling equipment (e.g., pallet jacks, forklifts)
• Basic working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel, with the ability to perform data entry and learn internal systems
• Comfortable using computers for data entry, emails, and tracking activities
• Ability to safely use basic hand tools when required
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Good communication skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Physical ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift/carry items up to 60 lbs unassisted

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in laboratory environments, shipping/receiving, or warehouse logistics
• Familiarity with inventory systems or LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems)
• Exposure to continuous improvement practices (Lean, 5S, etc.)

Total Rewards: We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. The estimated salary range for this position is $39,100 and $52,100 and is based on multiple factors, including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, as well as other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 5% of the base salary. This position also provides health benefits such as medical, dental and vision; wellness benefits such as mental and financial health; and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with the standard rewards offered in each individual location or country. We also provide full-time employees with paid time off including vacation (15 days), holiday including floating holidays (12 days) and sick time off (72 hours).
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ABOUT US
A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS) transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings, that support our customers' product innovation and business growth. The UL Mark serves as a recognized symbol of trust in our customers' products and reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing our safety mission. We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and complex supply chains, and grow sustainably and responsibly into the future. Our science is your advantage.
ABOUT THE TEAM
Our global network of 80+ laboratories is constantly evolving, because the world around us is always changing. We embrace this - we invest in improving our equipment and our skills so we're one step ahead of the market. One day we could be setting up a burn test and the next, simulating a tornado. And because we're always evolving, your career will evolve alongside us, whether you're working on brand new technology or connecting with experts around the globe. Join our team, drive the growth of our organization and deliver real change - in a changing world.