Research Assistant

Title: Research Assistant

Location: Pasadena, TX

Who we are:

Voted one of the Nation's Best and Brightest Companies to Work for, Kuraray America, Inc. (KAI) is a global leader in specialty chemical, fiber, and resin production. With top-of-the-line research and production facilities and a vast network of supplies from around the world, Kuraray leads the industry in specialty dental, fiber, resin, and elastomer products. Kuraray America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kuraray Company, Ltd. Based in Tokyo, Japan. Kuraray has operations in 31 countries and employs more than 11,000 employees, including over 800 in the United States.

Why Kuraray:

Kuraray is building a better tomorrow, today. Our team members are dedicated to expanding our business with committed professionals who share essential values such as integrity, excellence, teamwork, and accountability.

As a part of Kuraray America, Inc., our team shares the advantages of working for the leader in specialty chemicals, resins, and fibers. Our international presence and resources allow us to be a world-leading innovator in the industries we service. Yet, despite our size, our people are more than just a number. As a new team member, you can expect to earn responsibility quickly. Our commitment to our people is visible in our comprehensive benefits package. As a Kuraray team member, you will have the opportunity to enjoy competitive salaries and benefits, incentive opportunities, and an excellent work environment.

Position Summary:

The Research Assistant supports research programs by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and contributing to documentation and reporting. This role involves working within established research systems, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring compliance with HSE policies. The Research Assistant will also assist in the development and execution of test procedures, data management, and technical documentation preparation.

Responsibilities:

Research & Experimentation

• Conduct scientific experiments and tests following established protocols
• Perform analytical and laboratory procedures including sample preparation and processing
• Follow test procedures and standards based on project specifications
• Assist with equipment modifications as needed for various research requirements
• Generate data and prepare samples as requested by research team members

Data Collection & Analysis

• Collect and analyze data using standard tools and methods
• Compile data, perform calculations, and prepare reports to support research objectives
• Interpret test results accurately and summarize findings
• Contribute to research reports and documentation

Technical Support

• Maintain laboratory equipment to ensure data accuracy and consistency
• Provide support for data management systems
• Organize and prepare documents using standard office software
• Gather and summarize information for reports

Health & Safety

• Follow all laboratory safety protocols and procedures
• Identify and report potential safety concerns
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment
• Comply with organizational policies and regulatory requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field (e.g., Chemistry, Biology, Material Science) or equivalent experience OR
• HS Diploma with a minimum of 3 years of experience with polymer processing equipment, especially extruders and injection molders
• Familiarity with laboratory techniques, data analysis, and research methodologies.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication, presentation, interpersonal, creative thinking, consulting, and analytical skills.
• Ability to prioritize work to manage multiple projects to meet deadlines.
• Excellent problem-solving/decision-making skills.
• Ability to multi-task
Candidates must have a valid driver's license.

Competencies:

• Customer Focus
  • Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions.
• Business Insight
  • Applying knowledge of business and the marketplace to advance the organization's goals.
• Cultivates Innovation
  • Creating new and better ways for the organization to be successful.

• Action Oriented
  • Taking on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.
• Ensures Accountability
  • Holding self and others accountable to meet commitments.
• Drives Results
  • Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstance
• Collaborates
  • Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.
• Values Difference
  • Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization
• Communicates Effectively
  • Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.
• Courage
  • Stepping up to address difficult issues, saying what needs to be said.
• Instills Trust
  • Gaining the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity.
• Situational Adaptability
  • Adapting approach and demeanor in real time to match the shifting demands of different situations.

We offer a competitive compensation package that includes base pay and an annual incentive. This program is designed to reward individual performance and align overall rewards with corporate and team performance.

Our employees benefit from a robust healthcare package that includes wellness reimbursements, along with generous perks such as three weeks of paid time off, ten company holidays, paid parental leave, education reimbursement, and a matching 401k plan, among other offerings.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S.

Learn more at kuraray.us.com/careers/

Kuraray America, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity/disability/protected veteran status

No third-party candidates accepted.