The Research & Development Lab Technician will support material testing, analytical characterization, process development, and product evaluation activities within the R&D materials laboratory. This role requires strong hands-on laboratory skills, attention to detail, safe work practices, and the ability to follow established test methods and documentation procedures.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform routine and non-routine material testing with minimal supervision using established laboratory procedures, ASTM methods, and other industry standards
- Prepare material and packaging product samples, including plastic- and paper-based packaging, as well as test specimens for laboratory, pilot, and process development evaluations
- Conduct physical, mechanical, thermal, and performance testing to support product development, quality improvement, and troubleshooting activities
- Operate and support analytical and mechanical testing equipment such as Instron, DSC, TGA, FTIR, and related laboratory instruments
- Document experiments, test conditions, observations, and results accurately with full traceability in laboratory notebooks, reports, or data systems
- Assist scientists and engineers with new product development, pilot trials, material evaluations, and process improvement activities
- Maintain laboratory equipment, chemicals, materials, and work areas in a clean, organized, and safe condition
- Follow all safety procedures and support continuous improvement of laboratory practices, test methods, and documentation
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in materials testing, analytical, product development, or laboratory environment preferred
- Working knowledge of common laboratory concepts, practices, procedures, and safe chemical/material handling requirements
- Experience with mechanical, thermal, physical, and analytical testing methods; familiarity with Instron, DSC, TGA, FTIR, and similar equipment is preferred
- Ability to follow standard test protocols, including ASTM and other industry-recognized methods
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to accurately record, organize, and communicate technical data
- Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional team members
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook
- Ability to lift bags, pails, samples, and materials as part of routine laboratory work
Other
Work in accordance with all company policies and procedures regarding employment, safety, quality, product safety and legality, security, and regulatory compliance as applicable
Qualifications
Education:
- Required: Associate’s degree
- Preferred: Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, materials science, polymer science, engineering technology, or a related technical field
Experience:
- Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in materials testing, analytical, product development, or laboratory environment preferred
- Working knowledge of common laboratory concepts, practices, procedures, and safe chemical/material handling requirements
- Experience with mechanical, thermal, physical, and analytical testing methods; familiarity with Instron, DSC, TGA, FTIR, and similar equipment is preferred
