R&D Technician

Materion Corporation • Newton, MA

4d

About The Position

At Materion, everyone is included, respected and offered opportunity to grow. Join us!

This role involves assisting in the planning and execution of R&D projects, preparing samples, and conducting experiments using various lab techniques. The technician will perform tests such as material characterization, mechanical testing, failure analyses, and thermal analysis with precise sample preparation and traceability. Responsibilities also include operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting lab equipment, managing and analyzing experimental data, and assisting scientists/engineers with interpretations. The role requires developing and following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards, maintaining lab organization, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree or high school diploma/GED with 1–3 years of relevant lab experience in materials science, chemistry, or engineering.
• Export compliance eligibility for access to U.S. controlled technology which comes under the licensing jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of State, International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the U.S. Department of Commerce, Export Administration Regulations (EAR).
• Must qualify as either a U.S. citizen, a U.S. National, a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., a Person Admitted into the U.S. as an Asylee or Refugee., a National of a country that is not prohibited from having access to U.S. controlled technology (via a letter of assurance), or a Person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with coating formulations, sample characterizations (optical, peel adhesion, thickness), and analytical messaging.
• Familiarity with statistical methods and data analysis software.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to follow complex protocols.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and executing R&D projects, preparing samples (weighing, mixing), and conducting experiments using various lab techniques.
• Conduct tests such as material characterization, mechanical testing, failure analyses, and thermal analysis with precise sample prep and traceability.
• Set up, calibrate, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot lab equipment (e.g., DSC, TGA, FTIR, SEM, mechanical test frames).
• Ensure proper instrumentation calibration, repair, and documentation.
• Record detailed experimental data, analyze results, and assist scientists/engineers with interpreting findings.
• Maintain electronic laboratory notebooks and spreadsheets; help prepare technical reports.
• Develop, write, update, and follow SOPs.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols, environmental regulations, and lab quality standards (5S, ASTM, ISO).
• Maintain lab organization, cleanliness, and inventory control.
• Properly dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste, manage consumables, and support continuous improvement initiatives (lean lab techniques).
• Work closely with engineering, quality, and production teams to align research goals with product development priorities.

Benefits

• Equal employment opportunity employer
• Compliance with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions
• Reasonable accommodation under the terms of the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws
• Support for veterans and promotion of the benefits of hiring veterans
• Military friendly company

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree