Research Support Technician

Company Bio/Mission:

Kymera International is a leading global producer of specialty metal powders, pastes, and granules, serving diverse industries such as aerospace, defense, automotive, and electronics. Our mission is to drive innovation while adhering to the highest standards of sustainability and operational excellence. We are committed to ethical business practices and the continuous improvement of our compliance programs, ensuring we meet all regulatory obligations globally.

Job Summary

The individual in this role is responsible for laboratory equipment setup, operation, and maintenance while assisting with laboratory-scale alloy melting, atomizing, customer technical service projects, and manufacturing troubleshooting projects. Additionally, this role supports routine laboratory testing for product improvement and new product development.

Typical working hours will be on weekday daylight shifts; however, the employee may be assigned to work weekends and alternate shifts for specific projects.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Follow safe work practices and report/correct unsafe conditions.
• Ensure smooth operation of general laboratory equipment, including repairs, troubleshooting, and installation.
• Set up and configure equipment for desired testing conditions.
• Move and configure larger testing equipment and materials using a forklift.
• Execute R&D testing plans using laboratory equipment.
• Conduct required tests, interpret results, and summarize findings (written or verbal).
• Assist with routine technical service problems and report findings and solutions to the supervisor.
• Report findings, offer conclusions, and recommend courses of action.

Competency

• Basic knowledge of machine maintenance, electrical wiring, simple plumbing, and ability to read and implement equipment manuals and blueprints.
• Self-directed with the ability to work independently with minimal oversight.
• Effective communication skills to notify management of needs, problems, and solutions.
• Ability to learn and understand manufacturing processes, products, and their applications.
• Creativity in product/process improvement and problem-solving.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations using a spreadsheet or calculator.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Ability to implement and complete experimental plans.
• Ensure accurate and reproducible test data.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma with six (6) years of related experience in technical or operational setting OR
• Associate degree (A.A.) or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school with three (3) years of related experience in a technical or operational setting.
• Preferred experience in any of the following: metal processing, equipment maintenance, electrical controls, powder metallurgy, and/or prior laboratory experience.

Language Skills

• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write or verbally communicate routine reports and correspondence.

Mathematical Skills

• Ability to calculate figures, percentages, area, circumference, and volume.
• Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

Computer Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Basic PLC programming experience is a plus but not required.

Other Skills and Abilities

• Strong planning, time management, and organizational skills.
• Attention to record-keeping, mechanical aptitude, and safety awareness.

Other Qualifications

• Must be capable of wearing and operating required protective equipment and devices.
• Forklift operation certification required.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Frequent use of hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls.

• Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Must be able to lift and/or move up to thirty pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include color vision.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

Kymera International is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and North Carolina state law. If you require accommodation to participate in the application process or perform the essential functions of the position, please contact Human Resources for additional information. Requests for accommodation may be considered on a case-by-case basis to ensure equal employment opportunities.

EEO Statement

Kymera International is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status.