Sr. Lab Technician

Laboratory Scientist

Schedule - Mon to Fri 7am to 3pm. There is some flexibility with start and end times. Additionally, depending on project work hours may be heavier Mon to Thurs with a shorter day on Friday The position exists to support lab experimentation associated with the development and transfer of technology from lab scale to commercialization. The incumbent will be involved in lab operations including chemical synthesis, purification and analysis. The candidate will be required to function effectively independently and in work teams. The position is responsible for safe operation of their lab unit and thorough documentation of observations and results.

Responsibilities

Laboratory synthesis in support of new product development, cost reduction and optimization projects. Able to work with a lead researcher to design and execute experimental programs. Skilled in the operation of a variety of types of equipment and has understanding of the critical aspects of each type of experiment to ensure meaningful results. Work focuses on reaction fundamentals, operating limit determinations and separations. Analysis of laboratory and plant samples using various techniques including but not limited to chromatography, spectroscopy, rheology and titrations. Shares knowledge of specific expertise with other colleagues to advance overall competency of the technology team. Design and mechanical construction of complex or non-standard types of laboratory setups and equipment. Can also include specification and procurement of components such as flow controllers, pumps, thermostats, etc. May have responsibility for maintenance and operation of multiple pieces of equipment or lab systems.; Interfaces with vendors and contractors to execute lab projects. Assisting with plant trials at manufacturing locations to help with technology transfer Effective communication and documentation of laboratory results, collection of lab data, some basic calculations and interpretation of results from technical experimentation; Preparation of summary reports Active participation in lab safety program including training, laboratory inspections, job safety analysis, identification of hazard potentials and task observations. Lead or participate in a the site safety subcommittees or assume responsibility for a specific safety program or task. Writes safe work practices and participates in or leads design hazard reviews and management of change reviews. Follows site safety policies scrupulously and maintains an accurate chemical inventory. Owns the lab safety documentation and management of one or more process research laboratory units

Requirements

Experience with blending or reactor operations (autoclaves or fixed beds) with feed systems at the lab or pilot scale - Separation experience (distillation, filtration, rotary evaporation) at lab or pilot scale preferred - Participated in hazard reviews and incident investigations - Analytical measurement, troubleshooting, and maintenance experience, preferably gas chromatography & titrations. Method development is a plus - Experience with organic or polymer reactions preferred - Experience handling, building, and maintaining high pressure reactor systems preferred

Education & Experience

- High School Diploma with 15+ years of relevant industry experience - Associate Degree with 10+ years of relevant industry experience - Bachelor's Degree with 5+ years of relevant industry experience

ADDITIONAL SKILLS - Good verbal and written communication skills - Proficiency with standard software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) - Ability to lift up to 50 pounds of lab equipment or materials