Lab Technician

Job Description

Department:
Lab

Job Title:

Lab Technician

Reports To:

Lab Manager
General Description

The organization formulates, tests, mixes, and develops rubber compounds to meet the needs of a diverse customer base. Once developed, certifications and specifications for these compounds must be maintained, along with robust quality control measures to ensure all rubber compounds meet required standards. These activities are managed through the Material Laboratory, with Lab Technicians playing a critical role in execution.

The Lab Technician is primarily responsible for performing pre-approval testing of incoming materials and milled rubber batches, as well as conducting periodic compound development testing. The role also supports the Lab Manager with maintaining material specifications, equipment calibration, and providing technical support to internal teams and customers.
Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Compound, mill, and test new rubber compounds for customer requirements
• Test and evaluate purchased polymers and master batches
• Perform lot and batch testing to verify compliance with specifications
• Operate and maintain rheometer equipment
• Maintain and update compound data in computerized systems
• Update and manage revisions to material specifications
• Document compliance with internal and external material specifications and certifications

Additional Duties & Responsibilities

• Investigate compound-related issues reported by milling and molding departments
• Support Quality Assurance with compound verification and identification
• Assist Engineering with customer validation testing
• Retest compounds per mill room requests and manage raw material testing
• Perform miscellaneous duties as assigned by the supervisor
• Maintain a clean, neat, and orderly work area

Prerequisite Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of material science and chemistry; rubber-specific knowledge preferred
• Proficiency with calibration, measurement, and test equipment
• Computer literacy in Microsoft Word and Excel
• Strong math aptitude
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work independently
• Team-oriented mindset
• Regular and reliable attendance

Education & Experience

Required:

• Associate's Degree in a science-related field with 3 years of relevant experience, OR
• 10 years of work experience with a focus on material sciences

Desired:

• Bachelor's Degree in a science-related field
• Manufacturing work experience
• Experience with material/product compliance (REACH, RoHS, FDA, 3A, NSF preferred)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
• Ability to perform typical office and laboratory activities, including computer use