Experiment Specialist I

CPM Holdings, Inc. • Blaine, MN

10d • $100,000 - $115,000

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Experiment Specialist I supports experimental and development assignments involving fabrication, computational analysis, research, design, and testing. The role works with engineers and other team members to carry out defined experiment plans, collect and organize data, document results, and develop knowledge of Crown products, processes, and research methods across laboratory and pilot plant applications.

The position is approximately 50% office-based and 50% in industrial plant environments. Plant work may involve exposure to chemicals, hazardous materials, and noise, as well as potential work at heights, in confined spaces, and in inclement weather. Domestic or international travel may be required, up to 10%.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, agricultural engineering, engineering technology, applied science, or a related technical field.
• 2 or more years of progressively responsible experience in laboratory or pilot plant testing, product or process development, manufacturing, engineering, or research and development.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex experimental assignments and apply advanced logical and scientific thinking to innovation and development initiatives.
• Ability to define experiment parameters, modeling methods, data requirements, and evaluation criteria, and to interpret complex documents, calculations, and test results.
• Working knowledge of chemical or process-modeling software such as ChemCAD or Aspen.
• Experience with data acquisition, analysis tools, software, or programming such as LabVIEW or MATLAB.
• Proficiency in 3D design and related tools, including Inventor, AutoCAD, Vault, or similar systems.
• Strong applied knowledge in heat transfer, fluid flow, structural mechanics, dynamics, systems and controls, tribology, chemistry, or physics.
• Ability to exercise sound technical judgment, work independently, manage multiple priorities, and guide others.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex technical information clearly and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, customers, and vendors.
• Fluency in English required.
• Ability to travel domestically or internationally as needed, up to 10%.

Nice To Haves

• Additional language skills are preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Support product and process development through research, experiment setup, prototype creation, testing, data collection, and evaluation.
• Work with engineers and designers to understand experiment objectives, parameters, modeling approaches, data requirements, and acceptance criteria.
• Set up and run defined laboratory and pilot-scale experiments and numerical simulations with guidance; assist with troubleshooting test setups and data collection issues.
• Fabricate or assist with fabrication of experimental apparatus and prototypes using 3D printing and other rapid-iteration methods.
• Review 3D models, fabrication drawings, fabricated parts, and model outputs with team members to confirm they meet experiment needs.
• Collect, organize, and perform basic analysis of experimental and modeling data; document observations and identify items requiring further review.
• Prepare experiment records, technical summaries, charts, data visualizations, and reports for review by the project team.
• Develop working knowledge of Crown Preparation, Extraction, and Liquids technologies and apply it to assigned experimental work.
• Assist with observation and evaluation of new technologies in Crown pilot facilities and customer plant environments.
• Follow established experiment documentation, data quality, safety, and R&D work practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation days and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities, such as tuition reimbursement and certification programs.
• Wellness benefits, including gym membership discounts and mental health support; wellness programs.
• Paid holidays and vacations.
• Tuition assistance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level