R&D Lab Technician

Summary:

The R&D Laboratory Technician will assist in the development of new materials and processes for scale-up into the company’s product lines. They will conduct tests on thermal packaging systems and/or their components in support of new material development initiatives. In addition, this individual will conduct experiments involving material property characterizations. This individual must be hands-on, self-motivated, and capable of working independently. They must also have proven ability to handle multiple technically diverse project tasks simultaneously.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Characterizes novel materials, including but not limited to: refrigerant films/containers, refrigerant gels/foams, phase change materials (PCMs) and high-performance thermal insulations.
• Plans and executes R&D experiments to develop new or improve existing materials, which includes chamber/validator programming, wiring of thermocouples and/or pack out of thermal shipping systems.
• Works with CCT technical staff to establish and maintain a safe, well-organized laboratory with optimized workflow, including setting up new test equipment and machinery
• Develop SOPs for newly procured R&D laboratory equipment; co-ordinates general maintenance and upkeep of all R&D laboratory equipment; procures all laboratory materials, chemicals and supplies and maintains inventory listing.
• Maintains a detailed laboratory notebook. Generates graphs, statistical analyses, and presentation materials that can be presented to a variety of audiences to demonstrate experimental results and conclusions.
• Completes experimental/test designs for both R&D and production purposes
• Develop methods and processes to assist in scale up of processes from R&D to production
• Follows designated SOPs, work instructions and cGMPs and training related thereto.
• Ensure assigned areas and activities are in compliance with all safety guidelines.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Minimum of Associates Degree or bachelor’s degree in a hands-on laboratory-based science, technology or engineering discipline.
• Experience using analytical equipment (ex. DSC, HFM, TGA, mechanical testing, programmable thermal chambers/ovens, etc.)
• Knowledge of laboratory safety best practices, including PPE usage, chemical storage, safe disposal practices, and maintenance of lab equipment (e.g. chemical fume hood).
• Ability to write SOPs for R&D laboratory equipment.
• Expertise in using MS Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) to analyze, write-up and present experimental data and corresponding conclusions.

Requirements (behavioral, attitude, travel, etc.

• Self-starter with proven ability to work in a small, fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
• Focuses on results, maintains a positive attitude, and is flexible in finding ways to move projects forward.
• Interacts effectively with all levels and functions to achieve project goals.
• Strives to develop skills and knowledge and to collaborate with peers at a high technical level.
• Negotiates realistic commitments and keeps others informed on progress and obstacles.
• Strong organizational skills and demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks simultaneously; must be flexible and able to adapt to changes in priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with others in a positive & collaborative manner.
• Available for occasional travel.

 Special Requirements (License, Permit, Certification, Physical Limitations, etc…):

• Physical activity consistent with the laboratory environment including standing for extended periods, manual dexterity, good visual and observation skills, and the ability to lift objects weighing maximum 50lbs occasionally and lesser amounts more frequently.