Research & Development Technician

AstenJohnson is the leader in technical fabrics. Our drive to provide the best products and service in our industry is fueled by our associates and their drive to innovate. We want our associates to build careers here and become part of the fabric of our 230 year old company. We offer competitive pay, excellent benefits and a workplace built on respect and purpose.

General Scope of Responsibilities:
Provide technical support and perform routine and non-routine testing to support production, new product development, product modification, or material qualification. Work closely with R&D/Process Engineer to improve products for our internal and external customers by running trials to make monofilament using different polymers and blends. Help test and analyze competitive materials as needed for market intelligence.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Support Filaments production and quality assurance by performing routine and non-routine testing; assist in troubleshooting and data analysis.
• Prepare and test materials according to existing methods (chemical, physical, and optical) for material characterization and product properties.
• Collate test samples, data and record results. Document results reporting with basic statistics including tables, graphs, photos and written reports.
• Maintain calibration, operation and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment according to procedures and manufacturers’ requirements.
• Work with R&D engineer and procurement to assist in qualification of new raw materials and incoming audit testing for quality control of existing raw materials.
• Assist in running the Pilot Line and producing product samples.
• Assist in developing new tests and test procedures and implementation of those tests into standard quality testing as needed.
• Performs other responsibilities related to job duties as assigned.
• Proactively follow all health & safety policies and participate actively in our ongoing safety improvement efforts.
• Help foster a work environment that advocates ethics, respect and diversity.

Education/ Working Knowledge:

• Minimum High School Diploma with 5 years of experience or Associate Degree with 2-4 year experience.
• Knowledge of processing thermoplastic polymer materials and understanding of filament or any continuous manufacturing processes such as extrusion is required.
• Basic knowledge and experience in analytical testing of filaments, fibers and polymers is desirable.
• Lean and Six Sigma certification or experience is desirable.

Skills:

• Strong technical and analytical skills; ability to recommend data-driven solutions to technical problems
• Self-starter: highly motivated to deliver results and drive continuous improvement.
• Positive attitude and eager to learn
• Ability to prioritize and multi-task; attention to detail
• Ability to work collaboratively, creatively, and flexibly within interdisciplinary teams as well as customers and suppliers as needed to deliver exceptional results
• Practical hands-on aptitude in a technical environment
• Strong verbal, written and technical communication skills

Overview of Benefits:

• Medical, dental, prescription drug, and vision plans
• Basic life insurance and AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability
• Flexible Spending Account and Health Savings Account
• Wellness Programs
• 401(k) (with match for eligible associates)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Holidays and Vacation Pay

Apply online at AstenJohnson.com/Careers.

Promotions and transfers will be made without regard to age, race, color, sex, religion, handicap, veteran status or national origin. Those applying for a position in another country must take into consideration the immigration requirements or restrictions that may apply to them and their family members.

We are an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.