R&D Specialist

SUMMARY OF POSITION
The PD&I Specialist will be responsible for operating pilot equipment during the development of tape products, perform a wide variety of testing activities to support the development and evaluation of pressure sensitive adhesive tape products. This position will also conduct minor equipment maintenance and troubleshooting activities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
• Understand and follow all safety and equipment operating procedures while maintaining clean and orderly working condition in laboratory areas.
• Follow the handling, storage, and disposal of materials in accordance with environmental regulations.
• Executes PD&I project work as assigned by PD&I management.
• Maintain and document records of laboratory test results and experimental observations.
• Plan and organize lab activities.
• Independently supervise test runs and document results to scientists.
• Make observations and document experimental results.
• Provide limited data analysis and interpretation.
• Basic understanding of science and engineering principles.
• Conduct testing using test equipment and documents data, provide written lab/project reports and provide written updates as required.
• Schedule, facilitate, and provide support for plant trials
• Provide testing and pilot process support for PD&I scientists and engineers as required (e.g. operating pilot equipment and testing support during lab pilot trials).
• Prepare adhesive / release formulations.


QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential duty and responsibility listed above. The job requirements and physical demands listed below are representative of the required knowledge, skill, and/or ability to perform the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties and responsibilities.

JOB REQUIREMENTS
• Associates degree in a technical discipline.
• 7 years of experience in product development and/or laboratory testing.
• Knowledge and experience with the coating process and equipment preferred.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of computer skills in Microsoft Office and SAP, to perform data entry processes and documenting work results.
• Good mechanical skills, ability to work with equipment and trouble shoot equipment problems.
• Ability to work effectively with co-workers and superiors, ability to work closely with others, a team player, and self-motivated.
• Good math skills including use of basic algebraic formulas and statistics principles.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Sitting/standing for extended periods of time
• Typing
• Some lifting, up to 60 pounds
• Manual dexterity for completion of technical tasks

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Provide a brief description of the physical requirements of the job and the work environment in which the job is performed.

• Climate controlled lab environment.
• Testing in Environmental Room at conditions from -20°F to 90°F/80%RH or 110°F/10%RH. Extreme conditions require testing for short periods of time (approximately 15 minutes).
• Operation of Process Lab equipment at conditions from 50°F to 100°F.
• Safely work with equipment, chemicals, solvents, paints, and coatings.