Lab Operator

Lubrizol Corporation•Brecksville, OH

6d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Lab Operator, you’ll bridge the gap between manufacturing and innovation by operating and troubleshooting pilot-scale extrusion, injection molding, and compounding equipment in a dynamic R&D environment. You’ll partner closely with scientists and engineers to run trials, evaluate materials, and optimize processing conditions, generating reliable data that drives product and process development. Your work keeping equipment running efficiently, identifying issues, and maintaining organized, accurate records supports faster decision-making and successful commercialization of new technologies. The role is full-time and on-site in Brecksville, Ohio, with a Monday–Thursday schedule from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Lubrizol states that its Wickliffe campus will become the unified home of its global headquarters as it approaches its centennial in 2028, integrating capabilities and employees from the Brecksville site. The work takes place in a laboratory or manufacturing setting and involves operating equipment, using computers and digital tools, and following safety protocols. Appropriate PPE, including a full-face respirator, is provided. The position requires extended periods of standing, walking, or operating equipment; repeatedly lifting up to 55 pounds; and the ability to become certified to drive a forklift. Occasional off-hours or weekend work may be required.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
At least 1 year of experience working in a manufacturing, pilot plant, R&D lab, or similar industrial environment.
Experience operating or supporting plastics process equipment, such as extrusion or injection molding.
Strong observational and recordkeeping skills.
Ability to analyze results, identify process issues, and support root-cause problem-solving.
Basic math skills and ability to interpret data and trends from test results.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other computer applications.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Ability to stand, walk, or operate equipment for extended periods.
Ability to repeatedly lift 55 pounds.
Ability to become certified to drive a forklift.
Availability for occasional off-hours or weekend work.
Adherence to rigorous safety protocols and ergonomic standards.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in polymer science, materials, or a related field.
Experience in plastic or rubber manufacturing and/or testing.
Forklift experience or certification.
Experience working with industrial safety procedures, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO).
Experience supporting emergency response or safety programs.
Experience with laboratory information systems (LIMS) or data management tools.

Responsibilities

Assemble, prepare, and maintain extrusion, injection molding, and other processing equipment to ensure readiness for testing.
Operate and adjust Henschel mixers, 2-roll mills, extrusion lines, injection molding, and compression molding equipment to execute R&D trials.
Deliver accurate and timely laboratory results while demonstrating Lubrizol Cultural Beliefs and ensuring safe working conditions.
Identify opportunities to improve equipment performance, test methods, and workflow efficiency within the lab environment.
Review and validate test data for accuracy, identify inconsistencies, and communicate issues or non-conformances.
Accurately document test conditions, observations, and results in Excel and internal systems.
Communicate test results, equipment performance, and trial updates to scientists and engineers.
Perform preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor repairs on processing equipment following SOPs.