Laboratory Technician

Kelly Science, Engineering, Technology & Telecom; Freeport (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Polyurethane Laboratory Specialist role focuses on analytical, physical, and mechanical testing of polyurethane materials within a collaborative R&D environment. You will work with researchers, TS&D specialists, and engineers to provide comprehensive data, supporting product development, troubleshooting, and commercialization.

You will operate, calibrate, and maintain testing instruments, ensure meticulous data documentation, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives while

Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, or Materials Science.
• Experience operating analytical and physical testing equipment.
• Knowledge of ASTM/ISO testing methods.
• Strong data integrity and documentation habits.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical, physical, and mechanical testing of PU materials.
• Operate and maintain laboratory testing equipment.
• Document testing activities and results in LIMS.
• Collaborate with researchers to provide technical data and recommendations.
• Ensure safety practices and report issues.
• Record and report results per quality standards.

Skills

PU/Polymer science

Materials science

Chemistry

Lab testing

Instrumentation

Data analysis

Standard methods

Education

Bachelor’s or Associate in Chemistry/Materials Science

Tools

GPC

DSC

DMA

TGA

FTIR

Rheometer

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Polyurethane Laboratory Specialist to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will collaborate closely with research scientists, TS&D specialists, and engineers to provide comprehensive analytical, material characterization, and laboratory testing support for polyurethane (PU) research, product development, troubleshooting, and commercialization. Your expertise will be vital in driving technical evaluations, supporting continuous improvement, and advancing innovative PU materials.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct analytical, physical, and mechanical testing of polyurethane materials, including foams, elastomers, adhesives, coatings, and related products-according to established and standardized test methods.
• Operate, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory testing equipment and analytical instruments to ensure reliable data collection and instrument performance.
• Maintain meticulous documentation of all testing activities and results within laboratory data management systems.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and TS&D teams to address customer inquiries, assess product performance, and deliver high-quality technical data and recommendations.
• Record and report test results, observations, and laboratory activities in compliance with quality and procedural standards.
• Communicate proactively regarding any issues with equipment, testing procedures, or project timelines to laboratory leaders and relevant teams.
• Uphold rigorous laboratory safety practices and actively participate in Management of Change (MOC) initiatives related to new methods, equipment, or processes.
• Participate in laboratory safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement meetings and initiatives.
• Demonstrate exemplary safety practices, housekeeping, adherence to quality standards, and laboratory conduct at all times.

Preferred Technical Background

• Experience in polyurethane, polymer, material science, chemistry, or a laboratory setting.
• Proficiency in mechanical and physical property evaluations (tensile, compression, tear, hardness, resiliency, density).
• Hands-on experience with thermal and rheological characterization techniques such as GPC, DSC, DMA, TGA, FTIR, and rheometry.
• Competence in chemical analysis and quality testing (e.g., titration, viscosity, moisture, pH, and related methods).
• Skilled in laboratory equipment operation, troubleshooting, test instrumentation, and data acquisition.
• Proficient in sample preparation, test method execution, data analysis, and reporting.
• Familiarity with ASTM, ISO, or similar standardized testing methods.

Additional Expectations

• Participate in monthly safety meetings and compliance committees.
• Responsible for data entry, laboratory inventory control, waste management, equipment maintenance, and supporting ongoing research initiatives.
• Demonstrate strong safety awareness and commitment to safe work practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and laboratory information management systems.
• Ability to work independently after initial training while supporting teamwork and cross-functional collaboration.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail, data integrity, and organizational ability.
• Quick to adapt to new testing methods and emerging technologies.
• Maintain pristine laboratory conditions and organization.

Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Technology, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field (preferred).
• Experience in operating analytical and physical testing equipment in an industrial, research, or quality laboratory environment (highly desirable).