Lab Technician

SUMMARY:

The Process Support Technician will support the powders production department, working closely with the Shift Supervisor. Responsibilities include carrying out a variety of in-process tests with the aim of ensuring in specification production at target cycle times.In addition, the role will provide accurately weighed out crucial raw materials. In the event of plant upsets, gel samples will be run to determine root cause analysis.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Issue poly condition sheets for each lot number for Powders Operation
2. Responsible for tracking reactions through the process.
   
   
   
   1. Recording all data points in tracking spreadsheets
   2. Completing process control charts.
   3. Assist Tech Team with Process Performance Tracking tools
   
   
   
   
3. Perform In process tests.
   
   
   
   1. Spot check pH on D-tank samples prior to transfer.
   2. Testing of UL (samples caught by operations)
   3. Testing NVS (samples caught by operations)
   4. Insoluble (samples caught by operations)
   5. Any other investigative tests
   6. Recommend changes when need to problem reactions.
   7. Reporting anomalies to the Shift Supervisor.
   8. Checking process gels from the start of the process through to the end as needed.
   
   
   
   
4. Walk thru and audit poly area and paperwork for the building
5. Weigh catalysts, except Vazo 64, for each Powder line and labelling them correctly.
6. Participate in training and development of Outside Operators/ Material Handlers.
7. Participate in Kaizen and other Continuous Improvements Projects
8. Perform other duties as necessary

Laboratory Operation, Cleanliness and Maintenance

1. Maintains and ensures sufficient equipment used by the process in good working condition.
2. Maintains lab to 5S standard, ensuring orderliness and cleanliness.
3. Ensuring calibrations/verifications of lab equipment
4. Able to troubleshoot lab equipment
5. Maintain housekeeping standards in the Plant Lab area

Dealing with out of specification and abnormal variation

1. Monitor Omnis results and react accordingly
2. Identifying abnormal variation and reporting to production.
3. Investigate any non-conforming product
   
   
   
   1. Dry and run gel sample in QC Poly lab as needed
   2. Perform Salt extractions with QC involvement
   
   
   
   
4. Assist production, conducting root cause analysis and determination of immediate and long term countermeasures
5. In conjunction with the Shift Supervisor assists in root cause investigation when an out of specification result is obtained from QC.
6. Responsible for recommending process changes to avoid out of specification manufacture or delays to the process.
7. Recommends the adjustments required to correct an out of specification batch with minimal delay of the production process.

REQUIREMENTS:

1. Science Degree; Chemistry preferred.

2. Demonstrates good stewardship skills (Environmental, Health, and Safety).

3. Strong written and oral communications skills.

4. Ability to work rotating shift and overtime, as needed.

5. Ability to multi-task, must be a quick learner and adapt to change.

6. Capable of carrying out all QC tests for powders.

7. Must demonstrate learning and understanding the fundamentals of powder chemistry in a timely manner after starting the position.

8. Must be supervisor qualified within 2 years of starting the position.