R&D laboratory Technician

protechgroup; Warner Robins (GA, PA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Protech Group in York, PA is seeking an R&D Laboratory Technician to support formulation development of thermoplastic coatings and specialty materials. You will work in a laboratory environment, following GLP practices and maintaining accurate documentation.

The role involves weighing materials, preparing formulations, operating mixers, ovens, and extruders, and assisting in pilot-scale trials with strict attention to detail and SOP compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Chemistry, polymers processing, or materials science.
• Minimum one year of relevant lab experience.
• Good color perception and sense of smell.
• Ability to lift 40–50 lbs and perform manual tasks.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and execute lab-scale formulations for Thermoplastic coatings and specialty materials development.
• Weigh, dose, and blend raw materials to ensure formulation consistency.
• Perform laboratory operations related to polymer processing, including premixing, compounding, extrusion, cooling, sieving.
• Operate and monitor laboratory-scale equipment such as mixers, ovens, extruders, mills in accordance with SOPs.
• Ensure GLP compliance and safety standards at all times.
• Maintain laboratory equipment in proper working condition and calibration status.
• Record formulation data and results in notebooks and data management systems.
• Prepare test panels for physical, mechanical, and performance evaluations.
• Support R&D activities by executing experimental plans with precision.
• Assist in formulation optimization and process improvement under supervision.
• Monitor material usage and basic inventory control of materials and consumables.

Skills

Attention to detail

English communication

Independent worker

Teamwork

Color perception

Education

Chemistry/Polymers degree

Job description

Job Offer: R&D Laboratory Technician

Location: York, Pennsylvania

Position Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

The ideal candidate will be capable of carrying out formulation activities under the guidance and direction of the Thermoplastics R&D manager. This role involves working in a laboratory environment while strictly following best laboratory practices, ensuring precision, accuracy, and proper documentation throughout all activities. Attention to detail, technical discipline, and the ability to follow established procedures are essential to successfully support formulation development and polymer processing activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and execute laboratory-scale formulations for Thermoplastic coatings and specialty materials development. Following technical guidelines and instructions provided by the Thermoplastics R&D Manager.
• Accurately weigh, dose, and blend raw materials to ensure formulation consistency, repeatability, and traceability.
• Perform laboratory operations related to polymer processing, including premixing, compounding, extrusion, cooling, sieving of Thermoplastic coating and Specialty Material formulations.
• Operate and monitor laboratory-scale equipment such as mixers, ovens, extruders, mills, and auxiliary processing tools in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure strict compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), internal safety standards, and environmental regulations at all times.
• Maintain laboratory equipment in proper working condition, including routine cleaning, basic maintenance, and verification of calibration status.
• Record formulation data, processing parameters, and experimental results accurately in laboratory notebooks and electronic data management systems.
• Prepare test panels and samples for physical, mechanical, and performance evaluations.
• Support research and development activities by executing experimental plans with a high level of precision and attention to detail.
• Assist in formulation optimization and process improvement activities under technical supervision.
• Monitor material usage and support basic inventory control of raw materials and laboratory consumables.
• Assist in pilot-scale trials and process validation activities as required.
• Identify process deviations, equipment issues, or non-conforming results and report them promptly to the R&D Laboratory manager.

Qualifications

• Studied or degree in Chemistry, polymers processing, materials science or equivalent. Or a combination of education and relevant experience.
• Minimum one year of experience in a similar position (an asset).
• Good to Excellent Color perception and Olfactory sensory. For both accuracy and adjustments.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to accurately communicate effectively (orally and written) in English.
• Physical ability to perform testing and laboratory tasks, including lifting and handling materials. Ability to lift 40-50lbs.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow complex procedures accurately.
• Positive attitude and excellent communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with a diverse team.
• Previous experience in a R&D laboratory is considered an asset but not required.

What We Offer

When you come to work at the Protech Group you’ll become part of a dynamic and rapidly expanding business. Everyone has a part to play in our success to formulate the right mix. In return, we reward our people with a wide range of great benefits, including:

• Competitive starting salary $20-$22/hour
• Eligibility to Medical and dental insurance program.
• RRSP pension plan contribution.

About Us

For more than 45 years, the Protech Group has been developing and manufacturing coatings, paints, and specialty materials. Through quality and innovation, we formulate the right mix to protect and enhance what matters most to our customers. Headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Protech Group products are manufactured in more than 20 sites worldwide. We serve our customers in countless markets and industries, including construction, infrastructure, transportation, consumer goods, and healthcare.