R&D Lab Technician

Basic Function

The R&D Lab Technician is responsible for the operation of polymer processing machinery and the accurate testing of polymer materials for Product & Application Development purposes. 

Roles & Responsibilities

• To operate polymer processing machinery (blending, extrusion, injection moulding, testing) and use of hand tools in accordance with work instructions and safe working practices.
• Carry out accurate testing on polymer materials in accordance with work instructions, international standards and safe working practices.
• Accurate recording of parameters, test results and observations.
• Professionally and promptly completing administration/documentation requirements including report writing. 
• Ensure appropriate handling and storage of materials.
• Organise appropriate retention and control of test material evidence.
• Support technical development projects, material grade optimisations and customer complaints.
• Support SAP/PLM software tasks e.g. BOMs and production recipes where applicable.
• Maintain a high standard of safety, housekeeping and hygiene at all times.
• Good observation & reporting of any potential health, safety or security incidents.
• This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position and its requirements. It is not exhaustive or comprehensive in terms of duties, responsibilities or qualifications. Responsibilities and tasks may be subject to change based on organisational needs. The Company reserves the right to modify this job description at any time with or without notice. Employees may be required to perform others reasonable duties as assigned.

Person Specification

Education:

• GCSE Level A – C (or equivalent) in Mathematics, English, Sciences
• A-Level (or equivalent) in Mathematics or Sciences subject

Work Experience: 

• Over 2 years’ experience in a laboratory-based role
• Hands-on experience with mechanical processing machinery/tools
• Experience in a polymer-related field (particularly rotational moulding) is desirable
• Experience with SAP/PLM software is beneficial

Critical Competencies/Behaviours:

• Highly self-motivated as you will be expected to work with minimal supervision
• Good attitude towards safe working practices
• Good attention to detail and consistent working approach
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, written and verbally
• Ability to effectively manage multiple and/or changing priorities with minimal supervision
• Drives results & ensures accountability
• Physically capable of running machinery, lifting, climbing steps

Skills:

• Understanding of polymer materials, processing and test methods
• Good problem-solving approach
• Basic understanding of the use of machinery and power tools
• Good documentation management and experienced with use of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint
• Forktruck license is beneficial

Languages:

• Must be fluent in written and verbal English.

Terms and Conditions

• Starting salary is negotiable commensurate with experience.
• We offer a generous package including an annual bonus opportunity of 6%, based on company, site and individual performance
• Working 40 hours, Monday to Friday
• 25 days holiday per year increasing with service up to 29 days, plus bank holidays.
• Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 10% matching double employee contributions.
• Group Life and Group Income Protection Insurances, Health Cash Plan Scheme, Company Sick Pay, Cycle to Work Scheme and Employee Share Purchase Scheme.

• Starting salary is negotiable commensurate with experience.
• We offer a generous package including an annual bonus opportunity of 6%, based on company, site and individual performance
• Working 40 hours, Monday to Friday
• 25 days holiday per year increasing with service up to 29 days, plus bank holidays.
• Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 10% matching double employee contributions.
• Group Life and Group Income Protection Insurances, Health Cash Plan Scheme, Company Sick Pay, Cycle to Work Scheme and Employee Share Purchase Scheme.

Competencies