Job Description

THE ROLE

The R&D Technician - New Product Scale-Up plays a key hands-on role in supporting the development and commercialization of new laminate and prepreg materials for advanced electronic applications.

This position bridges laboratory experimentation and pilot/production trials, working closely with scientists, engineers, and process technicians to compound resin systems, run treaters and presses, and collect and interpret test data to enable smooth scale-up of new product technologies.

The role requires strong attention to detail, adherence to safety and quality standards, and an ability to operate and maintain laboratory and production-scale equipment in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Laboratory & Pilot Processing

Compound experimental resin systems and prepare formulations according to approved work instructions. Operate small-scale R&D treaters, resin mixers, and hot presses to produce laminates and prepregs. Provide oversight or assistance on larger production treater runs to support pilot-scale or manufacturing validation. Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) for resin handling, coating, drying, and lamination processes. Record processing parameters, resin characteristics, and run data for evaluation and reporting.

Material Handling & Equipment Maintenance

Maintain and organize R&D materials, chemical inventories, and sample storage. Support inventory control, labeling, and disposal of chemicals according to environmental and safety regulations. Perform preventive maintenance, calibration, and minor repairs on laboratory and treater equipment. Identify and report equipment malfunctions or safety concerns promptly. Assist in continuous improvement activities to enhance lab and pilot plant efficiency.

Testing & Data Collection

Support mechanical, thermal, and electrical property testing of laminates and prepregs (e.g., resin content, volatiles, flow, dielectric properties). Conduct or assist with analytical testing (e.g., DSC, TGA, DMA, or rheometry) under supervision. Compile and summarize data using Excel or other data management software; create charts and simple analyses to aid decision-making. Collaborate with scientists and engineers to ensure accurate data capture and traceability.

Documentation & Quality Compliance

Complete all R&D runs, test reports, and documentation accurately and on schedule. Maintain laboratory notebooks, digital records, and ISO documentation in accordance with company and regulatory standards. Assist with updates to ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and internal work instructions as required. Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and housekeeping policies. Participate in training and process audits as assigned.

Cross-Functional Support & Scale-Up Activities

Collaborate with Process Engineering, Operations, and Analytical teams during pilot-scale and production trials. Support technology transfer activities from lab-scale to production scale, ensuring consistency in formulations and processing conditions. Travel domestically or internationally as needed to assist with customer trials, product qualifications, or equipment installation. Train new or junior technicians in safe and effective laboratory and pilot-scale practices.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Minimum 3 years of manufacturing, R&D, or process technician experience, preferably within laminates, composites, or electronic materials. Experience operating treaters, presses, or coating equipment is highly desirable. Familiarity with resin formulation, polymer processing, or laminate production a strong plus. Strong practical understanding of laboratory and pilot-scale operations. Working knowledge of SAP, Microsoft Word, and Excel for documentation and data entry. Ability to interpret technical procedures, safety documentation, and test instructions. Basic understanding of statistical process control and data interpretation. Able to lift up to 50 lbs. and maintain certification for respirator use.

EDUCATION

Associate or bachelor's degree in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related technical discipline preferred or equivalent hands-on industrial or laboratory experience will also be considered.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 awareness preferred. Six Sigma or Total Quality Management familiarity is a plus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Primarily laboratory and pilot-scale plant environment. Regular exposure to resins, solvents, and treated materials--proper PPE and respirator use required. Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 pounds. May require extended hours or alternate shifts based on project needs. * Noise levels may exceed everyday office environments; hearing protection is required where applicable.