R&D Laboratory Technician I

The R&D laboratory technician will perform laboratory testing duties required to support Research and Development's support of manufacturing operations, formulation, product development/innovation, environmental social governance efforts and material testing. The technician will perform laboratory testing and possibly assist in plant trials to support projects assigned. The technician will work with electronic and mechanical equipment during performance of these duties. This includes tasks such as thermoplastics heat welding, two roll mill mixing and operating internal mixers and adhesive mixers. Once training has been conducted on test methods or equipment the technician is expected to work independently on testing projects and products with minimal supervision by the scientist or engineer who requested the work. The technician is expected to work in a flexible, team environment during performance of these duties. The Manager may assign other responsibilities and tasks as seen fit for this position.Typical R&D Laboratory Technician dutiesProduct TestingLaboratory Project mixing and testingParticipating in Laboratory TeamParticipating in cross-trainingOperating any necessary lab equipmentTroubleshooting test equipmentCalibration verifications & routine care of equipmentImproving method accuracyDeveloping new testsData Entry and ManagementEssential Full Performance KnowledgeTest method KnowledgeTest equipment knowledgeSafety procedures knowledgeMath/algebraLaboratory Information System knowledgeComputer knowledge of current software programsMembrane and Adhesive processing technologyMixingMillingExtrusionAging TestingElementary concepts in roofing system technologyDesignInstallationHeat weldingElementary knowledge of polymer materials and compoundsCompany rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.Internal processing and purchasing specifications.ASTM test methods and SOP proceduresHandling, storage safe handling of hazardous waste and materials.Essential Full Performance SkillsData AnalysisTest output interpretationData analysis (i.e. XR charts and histograms)Statistical calculationsAbility to use data to make decisions.Leadership skillsHelps solve problems.Ability to facilitate laboratory workload with good safety and practices.Ability to train others.Interpersonal skills-oral communication, written communicationCommunication with operators on the floorCommunication with management staffCommunication with departments outside R&D, the plants, Purchasing, outside auditors, vendors, suppliers, contractors, etc.Communication with other TechniciansComputer literacySkills with current business software employed by the CompanySkills with process control software employed by the CompanySkills with statistical software employed by the CompanySkills with lab equipment software employed by the CompanyOperation of all lab equipmentIndividual and group problem solving skillsMathematical reasoning and problem solvingEquipment OperatedPersonal computerFamiliar with all Laboratory and equipment such asViscometersInstronsDurometerLab millPress cure pressHot air heat welding machinesBalances and scalesFume hoodOther current laboratory equipmentAll lab safety equipment and procedures.B. MaterialsAll raw materials for CCM and Custom Mix CustomersExperimental raw materialsMixed stockWork-in-processFinished productsCompetitive productC. Data UsedCompound physical property statisticsSheeting physical property statisticsInsulation physical property statisticsAdhesives Physical property statisticsAccessory physical properties and statisticsDimensional analysis dataStatistical software informationRaw material test data and specificationsPlant processing specificationsSupplier certificates of analysisSDSD. Interactions with othersProduction and Maintenance hourly personnelProduction and Maintenance supervisionPlant Technical/QA personnelR&D technicians, scientists, and engineersSuppliers/VendorsPurchasing agentsV. Work EnvironmentFactory, office, and laboratory. Fast paced, task oriented. No direct supervision.Can be noisy and dirty.VI. Time WorkedHours worked-typically daylight 7am to 4pm, 7:30am to 4:30pm or 8am to 5 pm.Days worked-Monday through Friday with Saturday and/or Sunday overtime possible depending on specific CCM schedules and needs.Position is a support position for a 24 hour/day, five to seven-day operation.VII. Physical RequirementsSitting (at desk, PC, meetings, workstations)Ability to operate computers and data stationsStanding (evaluation/observation of processes, procedures, materials, etc.)WalkingSight (visual observation of all processes/products/materials is required)Hearing (listen to machinery, telephone, paging system)Hand-eye coordination, dexterity and strength to operate lab equipmentClimbing stairsOperating mechanical equipment such as mixers, welders, etcOther physical requirements required to acquire or locate material in the warehouse or on job sites. Ability to lift up to 40 lbs (1/2polymer bale or 5 gallon can of solvent or adhesive) is required.IX. Educational Requirements* Education-High school diploma or GED with industry coursework in mathematics, science and computers. Understanding of statistical methods required.X. Experience1-3 years of experience preferred working a lab environment.Familiar with lab equipment and/or equipment listed above.Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.Ability to work well within a team and as a self-led individual contributor.Strong organizational, communication and computer skills.Strong attention to detail and adherence to strict processing procedures.Strong problem-solving skills, self-motivated & a good work ethic.#LI-LT1