R&d Lab Technician

Job Title: R&D Lab TechnicianJob DescriptionThis role focuses on supporting research and development activities by performing laboratory testing on adhesive finished goods and materials. The R&D Lab Technician conducts a variety of chemistry and materials tests, records accurate data, and helps ensure products meet performance and quality standards. This position is ideal for someone with a strong foundation in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science who enjoys hands-on lab work and learning new testing methods.ResponsibilitiesPerform chemistry-based tests on finished adhesive products to evaluate performance and quality.Conduct adhesion testing to assess how well materials bond under various conditions.Carry out materials testing, including destructive testing, to determine strength, durability, and performance characteristics.Measure and analyze viscosity of materials to ensure they meet specified parameters.Support formulation activities by preparing, handling, and testing chemical and material samples as directed.Accurately enter test results and observations into laboratory systems or data logs in a timely manner.Follow established test methods, standard operating procedures, and safety guidelines while working in the lab.Assist in troubleshooting test results and communicate findings clearly to the R&D team.Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory workspace, including proper labeling and storage of materials.Collaborate with other team members to support ongoing R&D projects and continuous improvement efforts. Essential SkillsBachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science.Foundational knowledge of chemistry principles applied in a laboratory setting.Hands-on experience or academic exposure to materials testing and material science.Ability to perform and interpret adhesion testing and destructive testing procedures.Experience measuring and evaluating viscosity of materials.Comfort working with chemical formulations and understanding basic formulation concepts.Strong attention to detail and accuracy when performing tests and entering data.Ability to follow written procedures, test methods, and safety protocols consistently.Good organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tests or tasks simultaneously.Willingness and ability to learn new test methods, equipment, and processes quickly. Additional Skills & QualificationsInternship experience or significant school project work in materials science or related laboratory work.Exposure to adhesive materials, polymers, or related products in an academic or industrial setting.Familiarity with R&D environments and working with finished goods testing.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret test results and identify anomalies.Effective communication skills to document findings and collaborate with R&D team members.Motivation to grow within an R&D organization, with potential for conversion to a longer-term role based on performance and learning agility. Work EnvironmentThe R&D Lab Technician works in a laboratory setting focused on testing finished adhesive products and related materials. The environment involves regular use of lab equipment for chemistry, adhesion, viscosity, and materials testing, including destructive testing methods. Work is hands-on and detail-oriented, with a strong emphasis on safety, organization, and adherence to established procedures. The role requires handling chemical materials, preparing samples, and recording data in a structured and methodical manner. The lab culture values continuous learning, and individuals who quickly understand new methods and processes may have opportunities for long-term growth and conversion.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Wilmington, CA.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $24.00 - $26.00/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 TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Wilmington,CA.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on May 20, 2026.About ActalentActalent 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 process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.