Lab Technician

Lubrizol Corporation•Wickliffe, OH

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lab Technician supports the development, testing, and commercialization of high-performance thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) technologies within Engineered Polymers. Working with scientists, engineers, manufacturing teams, and commercial partners, the technician generates high-quality data, helps solve technical challenges, and supports sustainable solutions for mobility, wellbeing, and everyday life. The role involves laboratory testing, sample preparation, material characterization, and application evaluations for product development, customer projects, and commercialization. The technician processes polymeric materials and prepares test specimens using extrusion, molding, and other laboratory equipment while following established procedures. They collect, analyze, document, and communicate experimental data, coordinate sample logistics, maintain laboratory operations, manage multiple projects, and contribute to safety, efficiency, organization, and continuous improvement. The position is full-time and on-site. It begins at Lubrizol’s Brecksville, Ohio site and is expected to transition to the Wickliffe, Ohio campus in 2028. The work may involve laboratory or manufacturing settings, appropriate PPE, extended periods standing or walking, operating equipment, computer and digital-tool use, occasional movement of materials, and adherence to safety and ergonomic requirements.

Requirements

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline.
At least three years of hands-on experience processing plastics, thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), or similar polymeric materials using techniques such as film extrusion, compression molding, or injection molding.
Experience in an R&D laboratory, technical service laboratory, or related industrial environment.
Knowledge of polymer testing methods, including mechanical testing, rheology, or other material characterization techniques.
Commitment to safety, quality systems, and laboratory best practices.
Problem-solving skills, including identifying root causes, evaluating solutions, and executing experiments effectively.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including preparing technical reports and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.
Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Experience with digital collaboration and documentation tools such as SharePoint and OneNote.

Nice To Haves

Degree concentration in Polymer Processing, Polymer Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a related field.
Five or more years of experience processing thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) materials.
Experience maintaining laboratory operations using 5S or similar workplace organization methodologies.
Knowledge of ISO and ASTM International test standards, including experience developing or optimizing test methods.

Responsibilities

Perform laboratory testing, sample preparation, material characterization, and application evaluations for product development, customer projects, and commercialization.
Process polymeric materials and prepare test specimens using extrusion, molding, and other laboratory processing equipment while following established procedures.
Collect, analyze, document, and communicate experimental data accurately and with attention to quality.
Partner with scientists and engineers to execute development plans, laboratory trials, and customer-focused testing programs.
Coordinate sample preparation, testing, and logistics to provide timely responses to customer and business needs.
Maintain laboratory operations through sample tracking, material handling, shipping, receiving, and documentation.
Manage multiple priorities and projects while meeting timelines and quality expectations.
Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, quality, and commercial teams to support innovation and customer success.
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance laboratory safety, efficiency, organization, and performance.
Champion safe work practices and comply with laboratory safety requirements and procedures.