Lab Operator

Lubrizol Corporation; Brecksville (OH); On-site; USD 25,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Savings Account (HSA)

401(k) match + Age-Weighted Defined-Cn

Paid holidays, vacation, and parental

Job summary

Lubrizol Corporation in the United States (Ohio) seeks a Lab Operator to bridge manufacturing and innovation in a dynamic R&D environment. You will run pilot-scale extrusion, injection molding, and compounding equipment, collaborating with scientists and engineers to test materials and optimize processing conditions.

You will assemble and maintain equipment, document test conditions, and deliver reliable results while adhering to safety procedures.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 1+ year of experience in a manufacturing, pilot plant, or similar industrial environment.
• Experience operating or supporting plastic/thermoset processing equipment (extrusion, injection molding).
• Strong observational and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to analyze results and identify process issues for root cause analysis.
• Basic math skills; ability to interpret data/trends from tests.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other computer applications.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, prepare, and maintain extrusion, injection molding, and other processing equipment for testing.
• Operate and adjust processing equipment to execute R&D trials.
• Deliver accurate lab results while upholding safety and Lubrizol beliefs.
• Identify opportunities to improve equipment performance, test methods, and workflow efficiency.
• Review and validate test data; communicate issues or non-conformances.
• Document test conditions, observations, and results in Excel and internal systems.
• Communicate test results and trial updates to scientists and engineers.
• Perform preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor repairs per SOPs.

Skills

Observational skills

Recordkeeping

Data analysis

Math proficiency

Team player

Microsoft Office

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate’s or bachelor’s degree (preferred)

Tools

LIMS

Forklift experience

Henschel mixers

2-roll mills

Extrusion lines

Injection molding equipment

Job description

Shape the Future with Us.

At Lubrizol, we’re bringing to life the chemistry behind clean water, efficient transportation, reliable infrastructure, critical medicines, and the products people rely on every day through science, sustainability, and a culture of inclusion.

As part of our global team, you’ll be empowered to make a real impact - on your career, your community, and the world around you.

Job Type:Full-Time / On-Site

Shift+Hours:Monday - Thursday 6:30am – 4:30pm

As Lubrizol approaches its centennial in 2028, our Wickliffe campus will become the unified home of Lubrizol’s global headquarters , integrating Lubrizol’s Brecksville site capabilities and employees to the Wickliffe campus.

HowYou’llMake anImpact

As a Lab Operator, you’ll bridge the gap between manufacturing and innovation by operating and troubleshooting pilot-scale extrusion, injection molding, and compounding equipment in a dynamic R&D environment. You’ll partner closely with scientists and engineers to run trials, evaluate materials, and optimize processing conditions, generating reliable data that drives product and process development. Your ability to keep equipment running efficiently, identify issues, and maintain organized, accurate records will directly support faster decision-making and successful commercialization of new technologies. If you enjoy working with equipment, solving problems, and seeing the real-world impact of your work, this role puts you at the center of it.

In this role, you will:

• Assemble, prepare, and maintain extrusion, injection molding, and other processing equipment to ensure readiness for testing.
• Operate and adjust Henschel mixers, 2-roll mills, extrusion lines, injection molding, and compression molding equipment to execute R&D trials.
• Deliver accurate and timely laboratory results while demonstrating Lubrizol Cultural Beliefs and ensuring safe working conditions.
• Identify opportunities to improve equipment performance, test methods, and workflow efficiency within the lab environment.
• Review and validate test data for accuracy, identify inconsistencies, and communicate issues or non-conformances.
• Accurately document test conditions, observations, and results in Excel and internal systems.
• Communicate test results, equipment performance, and trial updates to scientists and engineers.
• Perform preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor repairs on processing equipment following SOPs.

RequiredQualificationsthat Enable Your Success

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 1+ year of experience working in a manufacturing, pilot plant,or similar industrial environment.
• Experience operating or supporting plastics process equipment (extrusion, injection molding, or similar).
• Strong observational and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to analyze results, identify process issues, and support root cause problem-solving.
• Basic math skills and ability to interpret data and trends from test results.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other computer applications.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment.

PreferredQualificationsthatDrive you Forward

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in polymer science, materials, or a related field preferred.
• Experience in plastic or rubber manufacturing and/or testing.
• Forklift experience or certification a plus.
• Experience working with industrial safety procedures, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), strongly preferred.
• Experience supporting emergency response or safety programs a plus.
• Experience with laboratory information systems (LIMS) or data management tools a plus.

At Lubrizol,we’recommitted to providing a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment where you can do your best work—whether in a lab, on the production floor, or in a hybrid office setting. In this role, your work environment requires:

• Standing, walking, or operating equipment for extended periods
• Working in a lab or manufacturing setting withappropriate PPEprovided, including full-face respirator.
• Use of computers and digital tools
• Adherence to rigorous safety protocols and ergonomic standards
• Ability to repeatedly lift 55 pounds.
• Ability to become certified to drive a forklift.
• Availability for occasional off-hours/weekend work.
  

We continuously invest in our facilities and technologies to ensure they support your well-being, productivity, and growth. If you requirereasonableaccommodation, we are committed to working with you to ensure an inclusive and accessible experience.

Benefits that Empower You

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonus plans
• 401(k) match + Age-Weighted Defined Contribution
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Paid holidays, vacation, and parental leave

Lubrizol: Imagined for Life. Enabled by Science. ™ Delivered by You.

For nearly 100 years, The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway company, has been at the forefront of innovation to enhance everyday life, advance mobility, and make the modern world work better. Our specialty chemistry solutions—from engine oils, performance coatings, and skincare to medical devices and plumbing systems —are powered by the expertise, passion, and commitment of people like you.

We tackle the world’s toughest challenges with science-based solutions, deeply understanding our customers to deliver innovative chemistry and differentiated value. Our inclusive culture, dedication to safety, and incredible global talent drive our success. Our solutions meet the evolving needs of the modern world—brought to life by science and, most importantly, delivered by you.

Whether you're in the lab, on the production floor, or in the office, you'll be part of a team around the world that empowers you to think boldly, drive results, and contribute to solutions that shape a better, more sustainable future.

We win because of you. Let’s build the future together.