R&D Process Technician

3M; Maplewood (MN); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

3M in Maplewood, MN seeks an R&D Process Technician to operate and maintain complex processing equipment, and to perform experiments that support technology development with researchers. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize materials and processes.

The role emphasizes hands‑on mechanical work, ownership of equipment, and effective communication. On‑site position with opportunities to contribute to state‑of‑the‑art systems.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with technician experience in a lab or manufacturing setting.
• Associates or 2-year certificate in electrical, mechanical or process discipline.

Responsibilities

• Configure, operate, and maintain complex processing equipment.
• Run designed experiments supporting researchers on material/process effects.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop processing capabilities.
• Provide ownership for equipment maintenance and improvements.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Process equipment operation

Ownership mindset

Written and verbal communication

Self-starter

Education

Associates or 2-year technical program certificate in electrical/mechanical/process

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

R&D Process Technician

Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World. Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it’s equally important you know that the company you choose to work at, and its leaders, will support and guide you. With a wide variety of people, global locations, technologies and products, 3M is a place where you can collaborate with other curious, creative 3Mers.

This position provides an opportunity to transition from other private, public, government or military experience to a 3M career.

Impact You’ll Make in this Role

As an R&D Process Technician, you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative people around the world. This role will provide extensive technical challenges and requires cross‑functional teamwork with key researchers and development partners. The position includes working on various state‑of‑the‑art processing machinery in support of technology development programs that rely on the precise configuration, operation and maintenance of these processing systems. You will make an impact by:

• Configuring, operating, and maintaining complex process equipment
• Conducting designed experiments to support lead researchers who must develop a thorough understanding of how materials and process parameters affect final product properties
• Working independently and with multidisciplinary team members
• Making recommendations with respect to materials and/or process modifications
• Performing other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED and at least 1 year of technician experience in a research lab or manufacturing facility
• Associates or 2‑year technical program certificate in electrical, mechanical or process discipline

Additional Qualifications

• Experience working across multiple disciplines, businesses and/or departments
• 4+ years of experience running process equipment
• History of taking ownership and responsibility for maintaining and improving process equipment
• Microsoft Office experience
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Solid hands‑on mechanical skillset with knowledge of automated systems
• Self‑starter who takes initiative in their work

Location

Work location: On‑site in Maplewood, MN

Travel

Travel: N/A

Relocation Assistance

Relocation Assistance: Not authorized

Legal Authorization

Must be legally authorized to work in the country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status).

EEO Statement

3M does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.