Lab Technician

Role details

About Ceramic Color & Chemical

Ceramic Color & Chemical is a 97-year-old company primarily responsible for the production of inorganic color pigments and other inorganic chemical solutions. Our products serve markets including wall and floor coverings, sanitaryware, dishware, construction, brick, art and hobby, metallurgical coatings, refractories, and aerospace. We are an agile and adaptable company continually driving improvement and optimization.

Our purpose: Develop collaborative experiences for fueling progress and solutions.

Our core values: Integrity, Accountability, Continuous Improvement, Growth, Respect.

Position Summary

The Laboratory Technician is a hands-on, on-site member of the Technical team who supports the quality of what we make today and the development of what we make next. Reporting to the Director of Product Development, this person performs quality control testing on production, contributes to research and development and formula optimization, keeps the laboratory organized and safe, and helps modernize how the lab documents its work. The role offers significant room to take ownership of projects, learn independently, and grow with a company that values continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Quality Control

• Perform quality control testing on production batches and, as needed, raw materials and finished goods, following established methods and specifications.
• Record, analyze, and communicate results accurately and promptly to Product Development and production personnel.
• Help identify and troubleshoot out-of-specification product and support corrective action.

Research & Development and Formula Optimization

• Prepare, calcine, and evaluate laboratory samples and trials to support new product development and existing product improvement.
• Support formula optimization to improve performance, consistency, cost, and manufacturability.
• Own assigned projects from planning through execution, including documenting findings and presenting results and recommendations.

Laboratory Organization & Safety Ownership

• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked laboratory, including samples, retains, chemicals, and equipment.
• Take ownership of laboratory safety: promote safe work practices, maintain safety documentation and PPE, and complete required safety training.
• Report hazards and incidents, and recommend improvements to safety and compliance.

Digital Documentation

• Lead the conversion of paper-based laboratory records, procedures, and test methods to digital documentation using Microsoft tools.
• Maintain accurate, accessible, and well-organized electronic records and data.

Process Support & Continuous Improvement

• Assist with process changes, including trials, testing, and verification of results.
• Identify and propose opportunities to improve lab methods, efficiency, and product quality, consistent with our value of continuous improvement.

Technical Support & Professional Development

• Participate in technical site visits to customers or partner facilities when needed. Potential daytime and overnight travel.
• Pursue independent study of pigment, ceramic, and color science to grow technical depth.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree (4-year) in chemistry, materials science, or another science-related field, OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and related tools).

• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to follow procedures and keep accurate records.

• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and own projects through completion.

• Clear written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred

• Experience in color, ceramics, or pigments.

• Prior laboratory experience in a manufacturing or chemical environment, including quality control testing.

• Experience with formulation, sample preparation, or laboratory documentation systems.

Skills & Competencies

• Analytical and problem-solving mindset with curiosity and a drive to learn.

• Accountability and sound judgment, consistent with our core values.

• Collaborative approach when working with product development, production, and other teams.

• Adaptability and comfort with change in a continually improving organization.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, and to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods.

• Work is performed on-site in a laboratory and manufacturing setting; exposure to chemicals, powders, and equipment is part of the role.

• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, gloves, and lab coat, and, where applicable, respiratory protection.

• Occasional technical site visits; potential daytime and overnight travel.

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person