Senior research technician

Saint-Gobain Abrasives is the world's leading manufacturer of abrasives, offering powerful, precise and user-friendly solutions enabling customers to shape and surface-finish all types of materials even in the most complex and challenging applications across a diverse range of markets.

Saint-Gobain Research North America is looking for a full-time Senior Research Technician to join Organic Grinding Wheel Abrasives team. The main responsibilities include supporting product development, process development, testing, and other activities supporting engineers on specific topics. The ideal candidate should have a solid background in basic lab practices including lab safety procedures, chemical and material handling, proper cleaning procedures and a familiarity with operating lab equipment. Hands-on, attention to detail and collaboration are critical for this position.

The Senior Research Technician performs moderately complex activities and/or product development activities with minimal supervision. He/she works with engineers and customers solving related problems. In addition, this position may also perform advanced specialized technical functions involving testing, analyzing, improving, installing, operating and/or solving problems concerning complex processes, equipment and products for assigned areas.

Main responsibilities include:

• Supports projects for engineers and scientists by carrying out experiments assigned using a mixture of R&D and manufacturing equipment, including material mixing, molding, cutting and testing.

• Assists pilot validation and production trials at manufacturing sites. Communicates potential problems with plants or equipment to other team members.

• Collects data and takes detailed notes on trials, processes, and practices performed

• Maintains laboratories and equipment including set-up, operation and troubleshooting of experimental equipment or instruments. Leads troubleshooting initiatives and machine repair efforts.

• Must be mechanically inclined and familiar with heavy duty operations such as moving tools, molds and working around presses.

• Works effectively as an individual with supervision, as well as side-by-side with other team members.

• Demonstrates an easy-going, level-headed, and collaborative approach in all areas of responsibility.

Essential Functions

• Perform complex and specialized operations on a variety of machines and a variety of materials including metals, polymers and ceramics. This job will involve working with engineers in the Grinding & Finishing Technology group, interacting with internal customers, and collaborating with the design of special fixtures & tooling, as needed.

• Conduct experiments as assigned in the areas to standard operating procedures (SOPs), or other specific instruction. Work with project leaders to develop new test methods, to improve existing techniques and to update SOPs.

• Maintain laboratory equipment including set-up, operation and troubleshooting of experimental equipment or instruments. Lead troubleshooting initiatives and machine repair efforts. Perform preventive maintenance on equipment as required.

Required Qualifications

High School diploma or GED (demonstrated equivalent) required.- Associates degree in an engineering, technical, or science-related field preferred.

• 4-7 years of hands-on experience in a laboratory or manufacturing environment required.

• Capability to use personal computer and Microsoft Office applications, such as Excel and Word required. Able to graph and chart data is a plus.

• History of continuously improving operations in his/her areas of responsibility, cross-training and flexibility to meet changing team needs.

• Knowledge of health and safety standards required.

• Experience setting up and operating various types of equipment such as complex assembly, processing, or test equipment with CN/CNC & PLC controls is a plus.

• Experience with advanced instrument testing (device and software) is a plus.

• Experience with material fabricating and prototyping is a plus.

• Experience with CAD and reading technical drawings is a plus.

Saint-Gobain provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. Saint-Gobain is an equal opportunity employer of individuals with disabilities and supports the hiring of veterans.

Applicants for roles based in Washington state or remote roles that would be worked from Washington state are encouraged to direct any concerns regarding the state's Pay Transparency laws to the SGNA HR Compliance team at SGNA HR [email protected] .