R&D and QC Lab Technician

Job Description

**WHY DO WE NEED YOU?**

This position is primarily responsible for supporting the Product Development/R&D department and the QC lab. The incumbent will be responsible to manage a shared workload between departments, which will fluctuate on an ongoing basis. In addition, the incumbent in this role may be required to support production in a utility role as well, based upon business needs.

Within R&D, the incumbent will perform specialized technical functions involving materials synthesizing, processing and testing in the lab, conducting hands-on pilot and production trials, analyzing, improving, installing, operating, and/or solving problems concerning complex processes, equipment and products for assigned areas in the field of boron nitride. Areas of operation to include product development lab, the production facility/equipment, and occasionally commuting to SG’s regional labs for materials characterization. In conjunction with the Product Development Manager, the individual will be responsible for data compilation, report preparation, and project analysis.

In the QC lab, the purpose of the position is to perform appropriate lab tests to validate raw or purchased materials, as well as validate that WIP and FG materials meet product specifications and expectations. This individual is responsible for monitoring the quality of manufactured product by routine testing, observing and evaluating product at all phases of the production process from beginning raw material to final shipment.

The incumbent must interact with product development, production, engineering, sales, production planning, shipping, and maintenance to achieve goals and objectives.

This position works within a variety of areas in the manufacturing facility and safety is a critical facet of this role.

* Must work in a manner that is safe while continuously ensuring quality, production and performance expectations are met.
* Must follow all safety policies and procedures, for example: safe lab procedures, safe operation of equipment, proper use of lockout/tagout procedures, proper use of all safety devices, proper use of machine guarding, wears required personal protective equipment (PPE), etc.
* Must comply with ISO9001 & ISO140001 directives and principles, as well as policies and procedures related to health and the environment.
* Must participate in required plant EHS activities


Supports and participates in various plantwide activities, such as ISO activity, EHS programs, WCM, 5S, LiveWell, or Recognition programs. Understands Lean Manufacturing Principles (Kaizen, 5S, Pilot Projects) and participates and supports initiatives. Performs other duties as assigned.

**IS THIS JOB FOR YOU?**

QUALIFICATIONS:

* High School Diploma/Equivalent
* Associate's of Science Degree in a technical, materials science, chemistry, or related field preferred
* 3 to 5 years of experience in manufacturing boron nitride (or similar) required
* 1 to 3 years of analytical or technical experience preferred
* 1 to 3 years of laboratory experience preferred


REQUIREMENTS:

* Must be detail-oriented, highly organized, able to work independently, and strong time management skills able to meet deadlines. Must have the ability to maintain accurate and detailed records. Manage and analyze data to produce meaningful insights. Must be able to accurate distinguish between colors. A critical feature of this position involves the ability to make keen observations during the duration of the test to devise a successful process and product.

* Must be capable and flexible to perform a variety of tasks as needed, and must be able to prioritize and schedule work efficiently. Must be self-motivated and demonstrate a sense of urgency, while maintaining safety, quality and attention to detail.

* Must communicate clearly both in writing and verbally with others. Position interacts with all levels of organization Must have strong organizational skills. Collaborate with plant operations for equipment use and process optimization; communicate with SG R&D centers for submitting and tracking work progress.

* Must be analytical and demonstrate independent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills. Must be innovative and be open to trying new ideas.

* Must be dependable. Attendance as well as being on time is critical due to the nature of delivery requirements and result reporting of the inspection department.

* Mechanical aptitude to perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of lab and production equipment. Coordinate with vendors for equipment modifications or repairs as needed.

* Must have knowledge and capability to use computer and Microsoft Office applications, such as Excel and Word. Able to graph and chart data. Must be proficient in QAD.

* Ability to learn, and perform all duties required of the position. Must have the ability to support production in a utility role as needed

* Provides leadership and maintains a positive work climate at all times. Promotes teamwork among department personnel and between functions. Willingness to work overtime and at times on short notice.

* General R&D or laboratory and chemistry knowledge, which includes proper chemical handling required. Trained and proficient in the operation of analytical test instruments, basic chemical analysis, and inspection tooling preferred.

* Proficiency in high-temperature furnacing, ceramic powder processing, and basic chemistry principles preferred.

* Hands-on experience with machine shop tools and equipment troubleshooting preferred.

* Experience with preparing and updating Work Instructions (WIs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) preferred.



**TO MAKE SURE NOTHING IS FORGOTTEN**

Pilot and Production trials:

During the pilot phase, the incumbent will organize pilot scale campaigns, perform hands-on tasks, and may provide instruction or training to the rest of the production team for a trial if required. Collaborate with plant operations for equipment use and process optimization.

Prepares and/or processes materials samples including:

* Active involvement in standard and exploratory experiment design
* Conduct experiments and tests to support R&D projects
* Routine R&D activity to make or prep materials and test samples
Development work with non-routine R&D assignments such as design of fixtures for experimental set-up and establishing proper data acquisition

* Operate high temperature furnaces and process ceramic powders (mixing, milling, separation)
* Gas piping and furnace modifications to support various gas atmospheres
* Mechanical proficiency with the ability to design, set up, and troubleshoot basic experimental apparatus independently
* Use machining tools or hydraulic press to create and process basic solid shapes for sample testing
* Performs hands-on tasks in both lab and pilot/production trials
* Prepare test materials per guidelines provided
* Measurement and mixing of raw materials and required chemicals
* Follow measurement and testing procedures
* Evaluate and develop new or non-routine procedures
* Prepare and update Work Instructions (WIs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
* Package and identify materials as required


Process Industrialization and Training:

* Assist in implementation of new production processes from initial testing through scale-up, pre-production, production integration and eventual transfer to full production.
* Includes equipment evaluation, equipment operation as per instruction, and establishing a method of operation from which SOP’s can be developed.
* Transfer of technology to include training required personnel.


QC Lab support:

* Coordinates and performs sample preparation and chemical/physical analysis on received materials, work in process, and final products
* Communicates with various departments and personnel
* Insures completion of all work consistent with quality system (ISO 9001) and cost objectives
* Monitoring of on-hold material
* Responsible for understanding production needs and scheduling work to meet requirements


Computer Use, Data Integrity & Data Analysis

* Collects and maintains accurate, organized data and records
* Performs sample identification and analysis
* Performs preliminary statistical data analysis
* Interprets and analyzes scientific and engineering data
* In conjunction with manager, reports the results and prepares presentations


Maintain Equipment/Laboratories

* Maintains laboratories and equipment including set-up, operation and troubleshooting of QC lab equipment and experimental equipment or instruments
* Orders and maintains proper inventory of supplies
* Leads troubleshooting initiatives and machine repair efforts
* Performs routine preventative maintenance
* Advises maintenance of equipment problems and interacts with maintenance and outside contractors for machine and equipment repair
* Coordinate with vendors for new equipment procurement, and existing equipment modifications or repairs as needed
* Performs calibrations of equipment
* Maintains a work environment that is aligned with 5S standards, including keeping work area clean and organized



**LEGAL STATEMENT**

Saint-Gobain provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. Saint-Gobain is an equal opportunity employer of individuals with disabilities and supports the hiring of veterans.

**BENEFITS IN JOINING US**

Saint-Gobain aims to deliver a comprehensive Total Rewards package to support our employees’ wellbeing and help improve daily life for themselves and their families. We believe in the importance of pay transparency in what we offer potential candidates. Provided is the local pay range for this position, which is $25.00 to $32.00 per hour. This hourly pay rate offered can vary depending on location, internal equity, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. In addition to the hourly base pay rate, this position is eligible for periodic bonus payments/an annual bonus. The targeted bonus amount can be up to 5% of hourly rate based on company and individual performance measures. Bonus payments are part of variable compensation and by nature can vary based on company and individual performance and is not a guarantee.

Additional Pay Incentives for This Role Include:

• Standard Overtime (Hourly Rate * 1.5)

Saint-Gobain is committed to helping you and your family be well in all aspects of your life. Be Well. Be You brings together inclusive programs and meaningful resources to support all aspects of your physical, emotional, financial, and social well-being. Employees have the flexibility to choose the benefits that best fit their individual needs.

Health and Well-being - Supporting your wellbeing, to thrive in life and work.

* Medical, Prescription Drug, Vision, and Dental Insurance
* Healthcare Saving Account and Flexible Spending Account options
* LiveWell Wellness Program
* Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
* Paid Time Off and Paid Parental Leave
* Retirement and Protection - Helping to make the future life you want a reality.
* 401(k) with Company Match, Retirement Accumulation Plan (RAP) Cash Balance Pension Plan
* Company-provided Life Insurance, AD&D, Short-Term Disability
* Voluntary employee and dependent life insurance, Long-Term Disability, Critical Illness and
* Accident Insurance


Additional Benefits - Helping shape the experience and impact you want

* Commuter Benefits
* Group Legal
* Identity Theft Protection
* Auto and Home Insurance
* Pet Insurance and Discounts
* Back-up Child and Elder Care
* PerkSpot Employee Discount Program
* Volunteer Day
* One pair of company-issued steel-toe shoes, and safety glasses; annually