Pilot-Plant Technician: Product Development & Trials

Vybond; Franklin (KY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Vybond in Franklin, KY is seeking a Product Development Manufacturing Technician to prepare and operate pilot-plant equipment, support product development, and assist with cost-reduction trials. You will work under the Pilot Plant Supervisor with Engineers and Associates to stage materials, run trials, collect samples, and document process data.

The role emphasizes accurate record-keeping, adherence to ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and ISO 13485, and safe handling of chemicals.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; A technical certificate or Associates degree preferred.
• 2+ years manufacturing experience required; 5+ years preferred in coating, calendaring, extrusion, or related operations.
• Demonstrated ability to operate, set up, adjust, and troubleshoot pilot-scale equipment.
• Capable of following trial plans, SOPs and safety requirements while documenting process conditions.
• Ability to monitor parameters, identify abnormal conditions, and communicate issues promptly.
• Strong math and computer skills; proficient in Excel and Word for records.
• Experience with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, ISO 13485 or similar quality systems preferred.
• Commitment to safe chemical handling and compliance with SDS, OSHA, and environmental policies.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing trial schedules.
• Ability to work with cross-functional teams including engineers, maintenance, and QA.
• Willingness to work varying hours and obtain forklift certification if needed.

Responsibilities

• Operate pilot-plant equipment to run product development and cost-reduction trials.
• Prepare, set up, adjust, and clean equipment; perform routine equipment care.
• Monitor tests and process conditions; troubleshoot and communicate issues.
• Support production-scale trials by staging materials and collecting samples.
• Maintain accurate pilot-plant and trial records with emphasis on data integrity.
• Ensure compliance with ISO quality systems and safety requirements.
• Maintain 5S organization in storage areas and trial materials.
• Assist R&D testing with sample prep and routine testing when workload allows.

Skills

Manufacturing experience

Mechanical aptitude

Documentation

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate degree or technical certification

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Job description

Vybond in Franklin, KY is seeking a Product Development Manufacturing Technician to prepare and operate pilot-plant equipment, support product development, and assist with cost-reduction trials. You will work under the Pilot Plant Supervisor with Engineers and Associates to stage materials, run trials, collect samples, and document process data.

The role emphasizes accurate record-keeping, adherence to ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and ISO 13485, and safe handling of chemicals.