R&D/TS&D Technician

Job Description:
The Catalyst/Downstream Operator is responsible for polymer analytical testing on catalyst samples submitted to the Catalyst Advanced Research Lab to deliver polymer research data in support of the Univation-PE Catalysis Research Business.

Requirements

•             A minimum of an Associate's degree in a technical curriculum with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 in all coursework

OR

•             A minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience (e.g., lab tech, reactor operator, chem tech, computer science, etc.)

Catalyst/Downstream Operator Responsibilities Include:

•             Operate a nitrogen glovebox for quality storage and handling of air and moisture sensitive catalyst samples and chemicals

•             Complete a daily process safety checklist by conducting a thorough process walkthrough

•             Perform polymer washing in a fume hood to remove residual sodium chloride from polymer samples; including decision making skills based on the look of the sample (rocky, fine, color, etc.)

•             Polymer sample prep for oven drying

•             Salt Preparation for gas phase reactor operations

•             Provide Polymer Bulk Density utilizing  an ASTM Bulk Density Apparatus

•             Polymer additive weighing and mixing

•             Provide Melt Flow Index data on polymer samples utilizing 6 Tinius Olsen Melt Flow Indexers, recognizing sample impurities before performing testing

•             Malvern- Dry & Wet Method Particle sizing analysis

•             Polymer plaque creation for quick density measurement utilizing a Wabash Hydraulic Compression Molding Press

•             Troubleshoot process issues and upsets with Melt Flow Index, Gradex and Malvern equipment; perform necessary maintenance to assure optimal equipment process conditions

•             Perform routine maintenance on the lab equipment including changing hydraulic fluids on press, adjusting melt indexer weights and platform, and blender bottle rebuilds.

•             Gradex polymer particle sizing analyses

•             Data collection

•             Retrieve and prepare the appropriate polymer samples for all outgoing analytical tests that includes DSC, Compositional GPC, GPC Triple Detector, Compositional Triple Detector GPC, Butyl Branch Frequency Test and iCCD.

•             Provide re-test and add-ons to current and past research campaign samples as needed to help customer Chemists and Engineers achieve their project deliverables.

•             Packaging and disposing of waste per RCRA regulations

Skills

This role requires mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, critical thinking, computer proficiency (software systems, Excel, Word, etc.), and math skills. The candidate is expected to calculate solution dilutions, concentrations, unit conversions, molar ratios, etc. Knowledge of flammable and pyrophoric solids and liquids, and their safe handling, is required, as well as the ability to work with and maintain the integrity of reagents that are highly sensitive to air and moisture.

The candidate should be able to look up information such as boiling points, flash points, vapor pressure, molecular weight, and density. Although work will be directed by the lead coordinator, the candidate must be able to directly contact either the lead coordinator or a research chemist for additional questions or clarifications if needed. The candidate is accountable for the quality of data generated.

Strong verbal and written communication skills and the capacity to interact effectively with coworkers at all levels are a must. The role requires a high level of independence, motivation, interpersonal effectiveness, and reliability.

Safety

•             There is potential for heavy lifting of up to 50 lbs.

•             PPE is required as specified for the work location.

Work Hours

4 days a week, 12 hours per shift.

G-TECH Services, Inc. is a leading certified recruitment and placement firm that specializes in providing highly skilled staff in technical fields such as engineering, IT, procurement, finance and accounting. We have well-established relationships with some of the most respected companies in the country and know our clients' job requirements and corporate cultures. Once we understand your experience and career aspirations, we aim to connect you with the right opportunity.