Sr. R&D Technician

Senior R&D Technician Job Description

I. SUMMARY:

The successful candidate plays an integral role in supporting Research and Development initiatives on new (SPRING) and existing products (Core Business) and packaging. The role's primary responsibilities include working with scientists and engineers to create prototypes, conduct laboratory tests, evaluate new technologies, and develop new test methods or processes. The Senior R&D Technician acts more independently and functions with less supervision than the R&D Technician position.

II. RESPONSIBILITIES:
The successful candidate will have responsibilities for: • Performing laboratory testing using established test methods, protocols, and work instructions with minimal supervision
• Communicating observations and outcomes on a timely basis
• Designing and constructing prototypes as directed
• Support expansion of prototyping capabilities by applying knowledge and experience to recommend new equipment purchases
• Preparing material and/or samples for testing per test method instructions
• Creating and maintaining effective and accurate records
• Utilizing the electronic document management system and/or Novatek Stability LIMS to create and maintain electronic laboratory notebook entries
• Participating on project teams as an extended team member
• Generating basic MS Excel spreadsheets to summarize test results
• Analyzing and evaluating new or alternative test methods and providing recommendations for improvements
• Performing weekly eye wash and safety shower inspections
• Managing setup and performing routine preventative maintenance on lab equipment
• Organizing and cleaning lab spaces as needed
• Identifying and addressing inefficiencies and roadblocks in own work
• Supporting test method development and validation (Gage R&R)
• Coaching and mentoring new associates, students, co-ops, and interns
• Completing ongoing training requirements
• Other duties as assigned
III. QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience / Education Requirements (United States) • 2-year associate degree or Trade Certification in a technical field and 4-6 years of experience working as a technician in an industrial/research laboratory setting, medical device industry preferred; or
• 6+ years of experience working as a technician in an industrial/research laboratory setting, medical device industry preferred
Experience / Education Requirements (Europe) • National Diploma (Ordinary Degree Level 7) in a technical or science-related discipline
• Ordinary Degree- 6+ years relevant industry experience, preferably in medical devices, hygiene, or packaging industries
• Honors Degree-4+ relevant industry experience, preferably in medical devices, hygiene, or packaging industries
Specialized skills/technical knowledge • Ability to work under minimal direction/supervision of other engineers or scientists
• Detailed knowledge of routine techniques, procedures, and standards, applying knowledge and specialized skills in a resourceful and effective way
• Ability to utilize existing lab equipment and materials to create product prototypes
• Strong communication skills, including oral and technical writing skills
• Experience deciphering new technical skills and processes, and executing existing ones with minimal support
• Judgment in prioritizing work and determining the best path to completing tasks
• Ability to use technical problem-solving
• A good understanding of experimental design
• Strong knowledge of our products and customer needs
• Familiarity with equipment and processes used in new product development laboratories, such as leak testers, heat sealers, etc.
• Proficient and has a good understanding of FTIR Spectroscopy, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Gas Chromatography, Optical and Digital Microscopes, and mixing technology (for Senior R&D Technicians supporting Technology Development)
• In-depth understanding of Universal or MTS Test Equipment and Software for tensile testing
• Working knowledge of MS Office Suite, including Excel
• Problem-solving skills
• Familiarity with medical device quality and regulatory systems preferred
Essential Functions of the Role • Talking, walking, vision, hearing, fine motor skills, writing, lifting up to 30 lbs (occasional), and pushing.
• Some but not all aspects of this job could be modified to accommodate the physical abilities of a disabled associate.

Pay Rate Range: $28-33/hr depending on experience