Materials Testing Lab Technician

KTA-Tator, Inc. • Pittsburgh, PA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

KTA-Tator, Inc. (KTA) is a 100% employee-owned materials engineering firm, internationally recognized as a leading expert in corrosion protection and asset integrity. KTA’s hallmark services include coatings failure analysis, forensic laboratory investigations, and independent laboratory testing of coatings performance, among a much broader array of integrated service offerings. KTA has an immediate need for a Project Manager/Materials Testing Technician. We are seeking a reliable self-starter to manage laboratory projects from initiation to completion, including preparation and testing of specimens and preparing technical reports. Responsibilities include applying coating systems to test panels, performing various tests on abrasive media and coated specimens, maintaining testing chambers, equipment and facilities in the coatings application and physical testing laboratories, providing instruction on spray application techniques and providing safety oversight during KTA Basic Coatings Training Courses. The position offers opportunity for professional development, advancement and contributing to department growth. You will be considered successful in this position when, within 12 months you have:
Prepared quotations for supervisory review;
Followed standardized testing procedures for coatings and abrasive media;
Applied coatings by various spray application methods following product data and SDS;
A basic knowledge of paint chemistry and accelerated weathering;
Effectively maintained client communications while managing multiple projects simultaneously;
Utilized coatings inspection instruments and visual guides;
Scheduled sample exposure and physical testing with attention to deadlines;
Prepared draft reports for supervisor review; and
Verified that all work is conducted in accordance with the laboratory’s QC program.

Requirements

• High school diploma/GED equivalent
• 2+ years’ experience in an industry-related field
• Proficient writing, communication, computer (including Microsoft office applications) and organizational skills
• Ability to have a flexible schedule with occasional overtime
• Near distance and color vision
• Ability to safely lift 40 or more pounds
• Manual dexterity
• Ability to feel textures
• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Ability to wear respiratory protection

Nice To Haves

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Material Science, chemistry, engineering or related field
• Paint application experience

Responsibilities

• Manage laboratory projects from initiation to completion
• Prepare and test specimens
• Prepare technical reports
• Apply coating systems to test panels
• Perform various tests on abrasive media and coated specimens
• Maintain testing chambers, equipment and facilities in the coatings application and physical testing laboratories
• Provide instruction on spray application techniques
• Provide safety oversight during KTA Basic Coatings Training Courses
• Prepare quotations for supervisory review
• Follow standardized testing procedures for coatings and abrasive media
• Apply coatings by various spray application methods following product data and SDS
• Maintain client communications while managing multiple projects simultaneously
• Utilize coatings inspection instruments and visual guides
• Schedule sample exposure and physical testing with attention to deadlines
• Prepare draft reports for supervisor review
• Verify that all work is conducted in accordance with the laboratory’s QC program

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package
• Opportunity for professional development
• Opportunity for advancement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees