R&D Lab Technician III

Role details

Position Summary

Performs laboratory testing, sample preparation, adhesive compounding, and coated product fabrication in support of research, product development, manufacturing support, and claims investigations. Produces laboratory-scale adhesive formulations; prepares coated, laminated, and cured constructions; and conducts physical performance testing, including peel, tack, shear, release, and mechanical evaluations of raw materials and finished products. Assists with basic rheological testing and other routine laboratory analyses as needed. Operates, maintains, troubleshoots, and performs minor repairs on laboratory equipment while ensuring calibration records and testing documentation are maintained.

Demonstrates mechanical aptitude in equipment operation, maintenance, and sourcing replacement parts and supplies. Supports laboratory operations through inventory management, ordering laboratory materials and compressed gases, sample preparation, and safe operation of material handling equipment. Works closely with scientists to execute laboratory studies, prepare test samples, collect data, and support day-to-day laboratory activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Conducts standard laboratory and industry tests to determine nature and physical properties of various raw materials, compounds, and coated products. Prepares and compounds lab batches to support R&D studies or product development activities.
• Utilizes laboratory test equipment and methods sometimes modifying the equipment to meet special test requirements. Records test results in laboratory record book or electronic database, provides basic interpretation for data gathered, and prepares reports of data for further interpretation by R&D personnel.
• Fabricates laboratory samples for R&D personnel or customers using standard or experimentally prepared compounds with web stocks as prescribed.
• Collect and document experimental data; maintain accurate laboratory records and communicate results to technical teams.
• Maintain laboratory equipment calibration records and coordinate routine maintenance and calibration activities.
• Order and manage laboratory supplies, specialty materials, and compressed gases needed for testing and development activities.
• Apply a working knowledge of adhesive technologies, substrates, and test methods to support product development and problem-solving efforts.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures and maintain an organized, efficient work environment.
• Occasionally assists in oversight of plant trial runs with R&D personnel.
• Assists process and product improvement efforts through the application of designed experimentation.
• Maintains clean equipment and work area and routinely assists in cleaning or servicing the laboratory.
• Adheres to the Laboratory Chemical Hygiene plan during all phases of work in the lab/plant.
• Reports on experimental results for internal personnel.
• Works primarily on assigned shift but may be required to work alternate shifts as needed to support the business needs.
• Performs other duties as needed and assigned by supervisor.

Scope

Direct Reports: No

Physical Requirements: Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, bend and reach. Must be able to utilize all laboratory equipment (rheometer, lab coaters, lab mixers, UV curing units, adhesion and shear testers) to determine performance of PSAs. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Safety PPE is mandatory in all laboratory and manufacturing environments in accordance with plant policy.

Management Responsibilities Level: Individual Contributor / Advanced Technician

Reports to: R&D Analytical Scientist

Location: Stow, OH

Travel: Up to 10% of travel with an R&D professional

Selection Criteria

• Education: Associate or bachelor's degree in a scientific or technical field preferred.
• Minimum of 3 to 7 years of relevant laboratory experience required; an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to interact will all levels of personnel within Mactac.
• Working knowledge of personal computers (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Math skills with emphasis on statistical interpretation of data
• Ability to work independently
• 3 – 7 years of lab experience. Industry related experience (i.e., coatings, structural adhesives, packaging adhesives, hot melt adhesives, plastics compounding) may be acceptable.
• Valid driver's license.
• Experience operating material handling equipment, including forklifts or tow motors, is a plus.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to assemble, adjust, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment.

Disclaimers

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

It is the policy of Mactac that all employees are employed at the will of Mactac for an indefinite period and are subject to termination at any time, for any reason, with or without cause or notice. At the same time, employees may terminate their employment at any time and for any reason.

Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, pregnancy, genetic information, creed, citizenship status, marital status or any other consideration prohibited by law or contract.