R&D Lab Technician

Fenix Group SPC • Hopkins, MN

2d

About The Position

The R&D Lab Technician position plays a key role on our R&D team focused on the formulation and development of new paint products, ensuring they meet performance, quality, and regulatory requirements. This role will offer you growth by working directly with our chemists and VP of R&D with the potential to move into higher level roles within our R&D department based upon gained skills. It’s an opportunity to get your foot in the door and have career security by gaining valuable experience!

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or related field.
• 0-2 years of experience in paint formulation or related R&D role within the coatings industry.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills in order to clearly and concisely explain the data gathered or problem to a chemist, customer service rep, or manufacturing floor employee.
• An ability to correctly follow directions consistently and be observant when conducting tests to provide detailed and thorough reports back to Chemists with timely follow up.
• A strong problem-solving ability to work through and recommend solutions to challenges that arise.
• A curiosity to learn, grow, and develop to take on additional responsibilities.

Nice To Haves

• Previous internship experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with ISO and regulatory requirements and standards applicable to paints and coatings (i.e. VOC regulations, REACH, etc.) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Partner with chemists to develop and optimize paint formulations.
• Conduct experiments and tests to evaluate the performance and properties of formulations, including viscosity, adhesion, durability, and color stability.
• Analyze and interpret documented experimental data to make informed recommendations and decisions about formulation adjustments or improvements.
• Partner with the purchasing team to source and evaluate raw materials, additives, and pigments for use in paint formulations.
• Support scale-up activities for the successful transfer of formulations to manufacturing, which may include following batches through the production process and resolving any issues that may arise.
• Cross-train in Quality Control (QC) to support that department as needed.
• Own the process of closing all batch tickets after the product has shipped in order to spot opportunities for formulation improvements to support “right the first time” manufacturing.
• Serve as the primary point of contact when a customer complaint is entered pertaining to the formulation or performance of a product.
• Investigate customer complaints to ensure enough information is available and provide a root-cause analysis.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level