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 duties

• Product Testing
• Laboratory Project mixing and testing
• Participating in Laboratory Team
• Participating in cross-training
• Operating any necessary lab equipment
• Troubleshooting test equipment
• Calibration verifications & routine care of equipment
• Improving method accuracy
• Developing new tests
• Data Entry and Management

1. Essential Full Performance Knowledge
   1. Test method Knowledge
   2. Test equipment knowledge
   3. Safety procedures knowledge
   4. Math/algebra
   5. Laboratory Information System knowledge
   6. Computer knowledge of current software programs
2. Membrane and Adhesive processing technology
   1. Mixing
   2. Milling
   3. Extrusion
   4. Aging Testing
3. Elementary concepts in roofing system technology
   1. Design
   2. Installation
   3. Heat welding
4. Elementary knowledge of polymer materials and compounds
5. Company rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
6. Internal processing and purchasing specifications.
7. ASTM test methods and SOP procedures
8. Handling, storage safe handling of hazardous waste and materials.

 Essential Full Performance Skills

Data Analysis

1. Test output interpretation
2. Data analysis (i.e. XR charts and histograms)
3. Statistical calculations
4. Ability to use data to make decisions.

1. Leadership skills
   1. Helps solve problems.
   2. Ability to facilitate laboratory workload with good safety and practices.
   3. Ability to train others.
2. Interpersonal skills-oral communication, written communication
   1. Communication with operators on the floor
   2. Communication with management staff
   3. Communication with departments outside R&D, the plants, Purchasing, outside auditors, vendors, suppliers, contractors, etc.
   4. Communication with other Technicians
3. Computer literacy
   1. Skills with current business software employed by the Company
   2. Skills with process control software employed by the Company
   3. Skills with statistical software employed by the Company
   4. Skills with lab equipment software employed by the Company
4. Operation of all lab equipment
5. Individual and group problem solving skills
6. Mathematical reasoning and problem solving

 Equipment Operated

1. Personal computer
2. Familiar with all Laboratory and equipment such as
   1. Viscometers
   2. Instrons
   3. Durometer
   4. Lab mill
   5. Press cure press
   6. Hot air heat welding machines
   7. Balances and scales
   8. Fume hood
   9. Other current laboratory equipment
   10. All lab safety