R&D Support Technician, Materials (Part-time)

Mori is focused on innovations in the food, agriculture, and packaging industries. We leverage the unique properties of a natural protein discovered in silk that protects food, creates an edible barrier, and slows down spoilage. Our products can be integrated at any time from farm to shelf, allowing food producers, processors, and retailers to deliver more and better-quality food to consumers. Our mission statement “More Food, Less Waste” embodies our companies’ commitment to improving supply chain inefficiencies and reducing food and packaging waste. We abide by the following values to make our mission possible:

• Think big, start small
• Embrace complexity
• See it through
• Operate with care
• Keep perspective

Job Description

Hours: Part Time, 20-28 hours/week

Schedule: Monday-Friday, exact hours to be determined during the interview process based on candidate availability

Mori is seeking a part-time R&D Technician to support the Mori Materials R&D team. Our Materials team characterizes silk and unlocks its potential for a variety of applications across the food supply chain. Technicians who join us will have the following responsibilities (which are subject to change):

• Assist with the preparation of samples, including film casting, for R&D experiments
• Assist with experiments designed to assess silk's effectiveness in extending the shelf life and enhancing the quality of food products
• Conduct experiments under the guidance of Research Associates and Scientists
• Collect, input, and organize experimental data into databases or spreadsheets
• Support lab operations through the execution of routine laboratory tasks

Compensation

• Base salary of $25.00 to $30.00 per hour depending on experience.

Requirements

Ideal candidates will have the following qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Currently pursuing a B.S. / B.A. degree in biological engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or related discipline
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when conducting experiments, recording data, and following protocols
• Ability to maintain a well-organized and clean workspace
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office suite

Working conditions and physical requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Sitting/Standing/Walking/Lifting/Carrying: The operator stands throughout their shift and walks on uneven concrete and tile surfaces. The operator lifts up to 25 pounds on an occasional basis.
• Pushing/Pulling/Bending/Stooping: The operator occasionally pushes/pulls a variety of objects which may include empty pallets, and brooms during clean-up activities. The operator will push/pull pipefittings during hook up. The operator bends and stoops occasionally throughout the workday, when servicing equipment, picking supplies or waste product off the floor.
• Squatting/Kneeling/Crawling/Twisting/Turning: The operator may squat when picking up supplies and during clean-up duties, including kneeling on the floor and crawling under equipment. Occasional twisting and turning at the waist while connecting process pipes or making CIP connections.
• Climbing/Balancing/Reaching: The operator occasionally climbs approved stairs or ladders. The operator reaches below shoulder level to pick up pipefittings from the floor or while servicing product pumps and related equipment. The operator may reach at or above shoulder level when making equipment adjustments, or during clean-up duties.
• Grasping/Manipulation: Frequent use of the hands and fingers is required of the Operator when servicing pumps, using scrub brushes, and connecting pipefittings.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

The job is performed indoors on a manufacturing floor. Exposure to loud noises, dust, dirt, sparks, oil, and smoke may occur. Protective safety equipment may be required including, but not limited to: hearing protection, bump caps, hair and beard nets, shoes, gloves, and safety eyewear. Activities may include extended periods of standing.

Benefits

Mori provides the following benefits for eligible Part Time empl