Lab Technician - Liquid R&D: M-F: 1st Shift (7 AM - 3:30 PM)

Job Description

Job Description

Lab Technician – Liquid R&D

(Batavia, IL Plant)

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 1st shift, (7:00 AM - 3:30 PM)

Pay Range: $22.00 - $27.00 per hour (based on experience and qualifications)

Since 1923, Hentzen Coatings, Inc. has remained an independent, privately held company dedicated to excellence in the development and manufacture of advanced coatings. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and service has earned us recognition as a trusted partner and technology leader in the aerospace, defense, and industrial markets. With nearly a century of experience, we’ve mastered the art of custom-engineering coatings to meet the unique and demanding requirements of our customers. This innovation comes to life in our state-of-the-art facilities, where talented teams collaborate to solve complex challenges and deliver cutting-edge solutions.

Position Summary

The Lab Technician – Liquid R&D performs small production and lab sample batch-making tasks in the production of industrial coatings products to meet customer specifications in accordance with established Hentzen Coatings health, safety, and environmental procedures.

Successful candidates must achieve acceptable scores on both the color matching and math assessments.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Weighs, gathers, and prepares raw materials to assemble product batches in accordance with established formulations. 
• Performs batch processing activities including dispersion, letdown, color matching, quality control testing, and filling, particularly for liquid batches of 10 gallons or less. 
• Evaluates completed batches to ensure conformance with product specifications and quality standards. 
• Adjusts batch properties within approved formulation guidelines to achieve required performance characteristics. 
• Conducts routine and performance-related testing to verify product quality. 
• Prepare customer samples and panels as requested. 
• Accurately documents all production, testing, and adjustment activities, maintaining complete and compliant records. 
• Enters batch data, test results, and related information into designated computer systems. 
• Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with housekeeping and safety standards. 
• Participates in hazardous waste disposal activities as part of housekeeping responsibilities, following all training and procedures provided by the Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Department. 
• Comply with all applicable quality, safety, and work rules, policies, and procedures. 
• Cleans, maintains, and properly stores production and testing equipment. 
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualification Requirements

• Preferred education level: Associate’s or two-year college degree or equivalent.
• Preferred experience level: One to three years’ experience in a laboratory setting preferred and preferably in coatings.

Skills and Abilities

• Working knowledge of basic algebra, percentages, and mathematical calculations, including metric‑to‑standard conversions. 
• Proficiency in the use of laboratory and production measuring and testing equipment, such as Karl Fischer titration, scales, grind gauges, and KU viscometers. 
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and experience using ERP systems and standard office equipment. 
• Effective written and verbal communication skills. 
• Ability to accurately distinguish colors and color variations. 
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and communicate effectively with colleagues. 
• Strong interpersonal and team‑oriented skills.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to communicate verbally and audibly in a manufacturing or operational setting.
• Frequently required to stand, walk, and move throughout the work area.
• Regular use of hands and fingers to handle, manipulate, and control objects, tools, or equipment.
• Required to sit, balance, stoop, and occasionally reach above shoulder level.
• Occasional operation of machinery using foot controls
• May be required to climb, balance, and reach overhead as part of job duties.
• Ability to regularly lift and/or move up to 65 lbs.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Safety shoes, safety glasses, and flame-retardant uniforms or lab coats are required in production areas.
• Respirators and ear plugs are required for specific production processes.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package.
• Generous PTO policy
• 401(k) Employer Match: We match employee contributions up to 8% of eligible compensation.
• Profit Sharing: Discretionary annual contribution based on company performance.
• Employee referral bonus program
• Monthly employee food trucks
• …and much more!

At Hentzen, you’ll find more than a job—you’ll discover an opportunity to learn, grow, and make an impact. If you’re ready to join a company known for its heritage of innovation and dedication to its people, we invite you to explore a rewarding career with us.

Please send your resume to:

Hentzen Coatings, Inc.

Attn: Human Resources

6937 W. Mill Road

Milwaukee, WI 53218

or

APPLY ONLINE AT:

Hentzen Career Center

Hentzen Coatings, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.

All candidates are subject to post-offer testing: including a job-related pre-employment physical, drug screen, and background check.