Lab Tech - Processing and Material Mgmt.

Evonik•Allentown, PA

About The Position

The Lab Tech - Processing and Material Mgmt. operates and maintains polymer processing and additive manufacturing equipment and supports laboratory processing, testing, product development, and materials management. The role includes preparing polymer and additive formulations; operating equipment such as 3D printers, extruders, and injection molding systems; and supporting process setup, optimization, troubleshooting, and equipment upkeep. The position performs processing and testing according to SOPs, ASTM, ISO, and internal standards, while maintaining accurate laboratory records and supporting compliance, documentation, calibration, and continuous improvement. It also coordinates laboratory project priorities and testing activities, manages material inventory and shipping logistics, and collaborates with laboratory leadership, cross-functional teams, and other stakeholders. The role requires adherence to Environmental, Safety, Health & Security policies and procedures.

Requirements

Associate degree in Materials Science, Engineering, Engineering Technology, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
2–4 years of hands-on experience in polymer processing and/or additive manufacturing (3D printing).
Experience working with high-temperature polymers, powder handling processes, and hazardous materials or chemicals.
Knowledge of inventory management practices, including material traceability, inventory control, and material handling systems.
Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory and processing equipment.
Ability to follow and execute processing and testing procedures in accordance with SOPs, ASTM, ISO, and related standards.
Problem-solving and analytical skills, including ability to interpret procedures, evaluate results, and support method development and process improvements.
Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, SharePoint, and Teams) and experience using laboratory data and documentation systems.
Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills, including ability to manage materials, projects, priorities, and cross-functional interactions.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, wear required PPE, climb stairs, and work overtime or extended hours as needed.

Responsibilities

Operate and maintain polymer processing and additive manufacturing equipment, including printer setup, build execution, post-processing, and routine upkeep.
Conduct polymer processing activities, including powder mixing, blending, sieving, extrusion, and injection molding, and prepare polymer and additive formulations.
Support processing operations and optimization through equipment setup, tooling changes, startup and shutdown, cleaning, troubleshooting, and process parameter adjustments.
Use CAD software and coordinate internal and external processing and testing to support product development, design modifications, and additive manufacturing projects.
Perform laboratory processing and testing according to SOPs, ASTM, ISO, and internal standards; maintain laboratory records, logbooks, and electronic data systems.
Support laboratory compliance and continuous improvement by reviewing procedures and documentation, interpreting processing instructions and SDS requirements, supporting equipment maintenance and calibration, and recommending process improvements.
Coordinate laboratory projects and priorities, adjusting workload to business needs, project timelines, and laboratory requirements in collaboration with laboratory leadership and cross-functional teams.
Manage material inventory and logistics, including inventory systems, material organization, audits, hazard identification and labeling, inbound shipments, and compliant domestic and international shipments.
Mentor and train team members, support quality programs, foster a respectful work environment, communicate with internal and external stakeholders, and constructively challenge existing practices.
Maintain ESHS compliance by following policies and procedures, completing required training, reporting injuries and hazards, promoting safe work practices, providing peer coaching, and participating in ESHS initiatives.