Lab Technician, Footwear (VFC)

VF Corporation•Denver, CO

2d•$30 - $38•Onsite

About The Position

The primary responsibility of the Laboratory Technician – Footwear is to test nominated raw materials, foams, textiles, polymers, adhesives, hardware components and full footwear to assess physical and mechanical properties. This role involves testing the physical and performance properties of footwear foams, materials and trims in accordance with established SATRA, ASTM, ISO and Internal VF test methods. It also includes performing full-footwear performance testing such as impact and energy return analysis, compression and cushioning durability, flex endurance and fatigue testing, slip resistance, abrasion, and traction testing. The technician will partner with Lab Management and Engineers to develop and refine test methods, review technical data, generate detailed test reports, dashboards, and summaries of results. Additionally, this role serves as a technical expert to the Materials Commercialization, QA and Product teams, requiring effective collaboration and strong articulation of technical subjects. The position also ensures compliance with safety requirements, trains and mentors new staff, and maintains and calibrates test equipment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent clinical or laboratory experience
3-5 years professional experience
Familiarity with SATRA and ASTM Test Methodology required.
Familiarity with Laboratory workspace setting.
Clear and accurate verbal and written communication with good interpersonal skills
Strong organizational skills and the ability to juggle multiple priorities and deadlines.
Strong attention to detail and appreciation for repetitive, task-oriented work
Proficient personal computer skills with focus on Microsoft Word, Excel and email communications
Superior math aptitude
Basic filing skills
Ability to lift 25 lbs
High color perception required (color vision).
Ability to stand for extended periods of time.

Responsibilities

Test the physical and performance properties of footwear foams, materials and trims in accordance with established SATRA, ASTM, ISO and Internal VF test methods.
Perform full-footwear performance testing including, but not limited to impact and energy return analysis, compression and cushioning durability, flex endurance and fatigue testing, slip resistance, abrasion, and traction testing.
Partner with Lab Management and Engineers to develop and refine test methods to address new materials, new constructions, and innovative performance requirements.
Review accuracy of technical data, generate detailed test reports, dashboards, and summaries of results as requested.
Partner as a technical expert to the Materials Commercialization, QA and Product teams.
Assure compliance with all safety requirements and operational safety processes within the assigned area.
Train and mentor new staff and Temp help when hired to become proficient in test performance and provide daily operational supervision and guidance to these associates.
Assigned by Lab Management in maintaining and calibrating select test equipment and related records; files test reports and specimen cards; files physical inventory of samples and other products according to pre-established protocol.
Performs these and other duties as assigned.