Materials Lab Assistant

Role details

Date: Oct 21, 2026

Location: Rochester Hills, MI, US, 48309

Company: Gates Corporation

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.

Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.

Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?

Position Summary

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This is an entry level position. This position’s primary responsibilities are the daily sample preparation in support of data collection and analysis. Additionally, this position is responsible for maintaining lab equipment and supplies in a state of readiness. This position is also responsible for completing daily, weekly and monthly regular tasks in support of the lab. This includes but is not limited to maintaining and ordering general supplies; finding alternative suppliers to improve costs or performance; maintaining the organization and cleanliness of the lab. This position is responsible for the safe operation of all instruments, equipment and procedures within the ACML.

This position reports to the manager of ACML but takes directions from all ACML personnel.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

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• Responsible for performing day-to-day operations, including preparing samples and maintaining the lab in a state of readiness
• Supports maintenance, repair, and scheduling of laboratory equipment for optimum efficiency and uptime.

Requirements and Preferred Skills

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• High school diploma or equivalent is required, associate degree in chemistry or other science field preferred
• High school classes must include basic chemistry, physics and algebra 2 with a B or better
• No practical experience required
• Mechanical experience or inclination is a plus
• Understanding of lab best practices for safety

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Must be able to learn all sample preparation equipment in the lab including but not limited to wet saw, hot press, polisher, various cutters and other techniques as required
• The ability to learn the safe handling and disposal of chemicals
• The ability to learn the fundamentals of knowledge of polymers or rubber
• The ability to learn the fundamentals of metallurgical sciences and other material sciences as needed.
• Ability to develop a broad knowledge about the practical application of technologies available in the lab along with other relevant analytical technologies
• Must be able to learn maintenance of sample preparation equipment as needed and the development of new methods to meet internal and external customer needs
• Strong verbal and interpersonal communication skills in order to communicate with highly skilled and advanced degreed personnel
• Participates in the planning and completion of activities, queues and priorities in a team environment
• Understanding and ability to apply concepts of testing and measurements is support of sample preparation duties
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to learn other ERP systems, such as Oracle and other programs used within Gates

Pay & Benefits

• Full-Time
• Hourly Rate: $25.00-$29.00
• Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options: benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire
• Eligible for 3 weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days. All vacation days are accrued
• 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match
• Tuition Reimbursement

Why Gates?

Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.

Work Environment

Gates is an Equal Opportunity and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands and fingers to work with objects, tools, or controls; and use office equipment including computers, telephones, and/or copiers/scanners. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.

For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in Colorado, Gates is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. This compensation range is specific to the State of Colorado and takes into account various factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role.

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Nearest Major Market: Detroit