R&D Laboratory Technician - Fire Safety

UL Solutions • Northbrook, IL

13h • Onsite

About The Position

UL Solutions is seeking a driven, team-oriented laboratory technician for research and testing of emerging fire and explosion safety problems, particularly in the energy and fire protection industries. Topics include lithium-ion battery thermal runaway and fires in the built environment. The role focuses on laboratory testing and logistics, and on designing, realizing, and commissioning novel test programs, fixtures, and apparatus. The technician works with R&D engineers and senior laboratory staff to design and execute custom test programs and services for internal and external clients. The position calls for creativity, curiosity, adaptability, and collaboration in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.

The technician provides hands-on support for custom test setup and execution, including operating data acquisition systems and participating in supervised live-fire testing. The role also includes coordinating laboratory workflows, preparing requisitions, and maintaining laboratory spaces. The job requires prior hands-on laboratory and mechanical design or assembly experience, safe operation of hand and power tools, and willingness to train for active firefighting in full turnout gear and obtain SCBA certification.

The estimated salary range is $50,000 to $98,000 USD. The position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 5% of base salary. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; wellness benefits; retirement savings; and paid vacation, holidays, personal days, and sick time.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Prior hands-on laboratory work experience.
• Prior mechanical design or assembly work experience.
• Qualifications to operate a forklift, boom lift, and scissor lift.
• Willingness to train for and engage in active firefighting while wearing full turnout gear, including maintaining composure and making clear, rapid decisions in an Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) fire environment.
• Ability to obtain self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) certification.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining high quality and exceptional customer service.
• Hands-on experience using and safely operating a variety of hand tools and power tools.
• Highly effective communication skills and ability to interact with customers.
• Project experience involving creative problem-solving.
• Desire to work in a team-oriented environment.

Nice To Haves

• A two-year university degree in engineering or a related discipline.
• Existing SCBA certification.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support in designing and constructing test fixtures, test rooms or systems, and other testing programs.
• Design, adapt, and build test setups and equipment for new situations based on test specifications and discussions with engineers.
• Examine test samples and interpret measuring instruments, blueprints, schematics, wiring diagrams, and operational instructions.
• Develop test procedures based on laboratory procedures, standards, and safety policies.
• Participate in firefighting and fire-extinguishing activities during live-fire tests under supervision of more senior technicians.
• Set up and operate data acquisition suites for custom test scenarios.
• Assist with scheduling, assigning, reviewing, and coordinating workflow to ensure proper use of laboratory time and space.
• Work with minimal supervision within defined limits of responsibility.
• Attend meetings and use multiple forms of communication to complete tasks, projects, and initiatives.
• Prepare purchase and material requisitions.
• Maintain laboratory spaces so they remain clean, organized, operational, and up to date.
• Integrate continuous improvement concepts and techniques into all aspects of the job.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Wellness benefits, including mental and financial health.
• Retirement savings (401K).
• Paid vacation (15 days), holidays and personal days (12 days total), and sick time off (72 hours).
• Annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 5% of base salary.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED