Lab Technician

Job Title: Lab Technician

Location: Durham, NC

About the Company:

IPS Adhesives (IPSA) is a global supplier of adhesives and related solutions to a wide variety of markets. For over 65 years, IPS Adhesives has invested in product innovation, that provides specialized bonding solutions that are shaping the future of leading-edge assembly and construction design. Our brands are trusted worldwide by kitchen, bedroom and bathroom fitters, sign and display assembly operations, structural partners working in transportation, construction, boat building and more. Through these innovative performance and environmentally conscious-led solutions, we believe we can also help improve the lives of people working in these industries for generations to come.

IPS Adhesives wants to Inspire its People to Succeed by engaging dynamic, collaborative and safety conscious team members to join our growing business. We are looking for a talented, "act-like-an-owner" team member to help drive our business, starting with the voice of the customer and closing with extraordinary service and value.

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Job Description:

Under general supervision, develops conducts product testing of both solid surface & structural products. Determines batch adjustments utilizing lab blends, accepted guidelines and/or using batch adjustment history. Evaluates performance results against required performance criteria.

The work involves the execution of specific instructions or procedures and typically comprises a complete segment of work, i.e., production batch testing and documentation, product testing for customers, adhesive formulation testing against criteria. At times it can include experimental projects of broader scope. The work product or service affects the accuracy, reliability or acceptability of further processes or services.


Job Description:

Role accountabilities, expectations, and responsibilities

• Testing of all manufactured batches according to quality control test sheet. Both bulk and down packed product.
• Monitoring the production process and carrying out in-process QC checks.
• Testing and inspection of in-coming raw materials including use of FTIR.
• Making adjustments on out of spec batches and following escalation processes when necessary
• Root cause analysis on out of spec batches.
• Production batch supervisions.
• Follow current QC laboratory systems and procedures as well as implementation of new systems and procedures when needed.
• Strictly follow standard methods of test, including safety, 5S procedures.
• Accurately completing all relevant paperwork.
• Assist when required for quality investigations.
• Make recommendations for improvements to facilities or processes when needed. Maintain an efficient practical working environment.
• Assessing tasks for risks and implementing control measures.
• Reporting any problems during the shift to supervisors including any maintenance issues.
• Disposal of hazardous waste in appropriate waste container and transport to central accumulation area

The duties and responsibilities highlighted in this job description are indicative and may vary over time. Post holders are expected to undertake other duties and responsibilities relevant to the nature, level and extent of the post.

Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Preferred two - five years experience in working good manufacturing or laboratory experience.
• Experience using collaborative improvement tools such as lean tools or problem solving tools
• An awareness of environment, health and safety issues.
• A strong understanding of chemistry and the relevant technologies.
• A good level of IT literacy including Microsoft Office packages and databases.
• Good organizational skills and a methodical approach to work.
• Good verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to effectively communicate with internal customers.
• Must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Able to test to a 30 or below in the Farnsworth Munsell 100 hue test.

Key Competencies:

• Self-motivation and initiative.
• Attention to detail.
• Communication skills - verbal and written.
• Data collection, management and analysis.
• Problem analysis and problem solving.
• Planning and organizing.
• Judgment.
• Decision making.
• Teamwork.