R&D Technician I

Roles & Responsibilities: 

- Works under limited supervision following approved work instructions in the creation and/or analysis of high-quality ceramic products with a focus on lapping and polishing. 

- Assists in analyzing data, systems, processes, product or equipment, utilizing engineering principles; reporting results to customers or leadership as required.  

- Works independently on assigned projects, creating technical reports as required as well as identifying and suggesting solutions. 

- Performs data gathering tasks requiring the use and application of appropriate software to accurately maintain specified records of technical data.  

- Interacts with internal customers; assists in reviewing or reporting findings of the analysis of ceramics or related materials.  

- Exhibits troubleshooting skills on specific equipment in area of responsibility; cleans and performs preventative maintenance as required.  

- Cross trained on equipment and process operations and complies with customer specifications as well as quality and safety standards. 

Job Requirements: 

Education: 

• High School diploma or equivalent plus 3 years related work experience or Bachelor’s degree with 1 year of related work experience. 

Experience: 

• Experience operating manufacturing equipment preferred.  

• Experience with lapping and polishing systems preferred but not required. 

• Experience with equipment maintenance and troubleshooting preferred. 

• Experience in a laboratory environment preferred. 

Functional/Technical Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: 

• Intermediate math and writing skills and basic statistics knowledge required. 

• Able to generate basic technical reports. 

• Understands basic ceramic science principles for materials related to assigned projects and contributes appropriate observations and offers solutions. 

• Possess the ability to use the computer system for basic departmental functions. 

• Must be able to work with a diverse variety of people from different cultures and backgrounds. 

• Exhibits effective cooperation and communication skills to effectively work within a team environment. 

Position Specific Physical Requirements: 

• Required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment at all times in work areas. 

• May be required to handle hazardous chemicals such as acids and solvents. 

• May be required to wear a respirator (a medical evaluation will be required prior to fitting). 

• May be required to lift up to 50 lbs.