Lab Technician

The laboratory technician is responsible for overseeing and executing product development activities across the site ensuring continuous development of repeatable new and custom products to meet modern and renovation architectural needs. The person filling the role will also be responsible for performing raw material and finished good testing and other projects aimed at improving manufacturing and/or testing processes and ensuring the efficient production of high-quality masonry materials.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop, modify, and become plant expert for ceramic coatings (including glazes) and bodies
• Assist with the development of and perform inspections related to raw material, work-in-process, and finished products

• Perform industry standard tests, as well as proprietary methods of testing the integrity and consistency of raw materials and finished goods. May also develop and perform new test methods.

• Maintain and improve product quality by completing production process and product audits (including benchmarking and gap analysis), investigating customer complaints, and collaborating with other personnel to develop new product manufacturing and training methods
• Lead and participate in Continuous Improvement activities.

Skills/Abilities:

• Able to work with all areas of operation including quarries, raw material analysis, production, and any other area that influences the quality of the products.
• Work efficiently & independently
• Self-starter with a disciplined approach utilizing resources to assist with accomplishing goals and objectives of the company
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to communicate with cross functional groups.
• Regularly lift 25 lbs and occasionally lift 50 lbs and spend +50% of day on feet most days.
• Proficient use of Office365 applications

Qualifications and Capabilities:

• Four-year college degree, (Engineering, science, technology, ceramic arts degree preferred) or minimum of 4 years previous ceramic or product development experience
• Internship in manufacturing environment, 1-3 years of experience preferred

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and as such the employee will also be required to perform other reasonably related business duties as may be assigned by the Continuous Improvement Manager and/or other management person.