R&D Laboratory Technician

R&D Laboratory Technician

Location: Ashtabula, OH

About the Opportunity

RHI Magnesita is seeking a hands-on, technically minded R&D Laboratory Technician to support the development of next-generation refractory products and manufacturing processes. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working in both laboratory and industrial environments and wants to play a direct role in innovation, testing, and product development.

As a member of the R&D team, you will collaborate with engineers, scientists, product managers, and operations professionals to conduct laboratory testing, prepare materials and samples, support pilot trials, and generate data that drives product and process improvements. This position offers the opportunity to work with advanced materials and high-temperature applications that serve critical industrial markets around the world.

What You'll Do

• Support R&D engineers and scientists in evaluating refractory materials, products, and manufacturing processes.
• Prepare laboratory batches, experimental samples, and test specimens in accordance with project requirements.
• Assist with laboratory-scale and pilot-scale trials for new product development and process improvement initiatives.
• Execute established test plans and communicate results to project teams.
• Perform physical, thermal, chemical, and mechanical testing of refractory materials.
• Operate laboratory equipment used for density, porosity, loss-on-ignition (LOI), modulus of rupture (MOR), and microscopy sample preparation testing.
• Ensure testing activities comply with ASTM, ISO, and internal quality standards.
• Cut, grind, machine, dry, fire, and process materials and test specimens.
• Maintain sample identification, traceability, and storage records.
• Accurately record, verify, and manage laboratory data and test results.
• Support technical reporting, presentations, and project documentation.
• Maintain laboratory equipment through routine inspection, calibration, and preventive maintenance activities.
• Assist with inventory management, housekeeping, and overall laboratory organization.
• Promote a strong safety culture by following all environmental, health, and safety requirements and using appropriate PPE.

What You Bring

• Associate degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Ceramics, Engineering Technology, Industrial Technology, or a related technical field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in laboratory testing, quality, manufacturing, research, or materials-related environments.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to follow technical procedures, testing methods, and standardized work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work safely in both laboratory and industrial manufacturing environments.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform hands-on work throughout the workday.
• Ability to safely lift up to 50 pounds.

What We Offer

• Competitive Salary
• Comprehensive Benefits Package - Including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability coverage.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - With company matching to help you plan for your future.
• Paid Time Off
• Training & Development - Access to learning resources and career development programs.
• Inclusive Work Environment - A culture that values diversity, safety, and collaboration.

About RHI Magnesita

RHI Magnesita is the leading global supplier of high-grade refractory products, systems and solutions which are critical for high-temperature processes in a wide range of industries. Serving customers around the world, RHI Magnesita has more than 20,000 employees in 65 main production sites (including raw material sites), 12 recycling facilities and more than 70 sales offices.

RHI Magnesita's team in North America helps build refractory products that solve the most extreme manufacturing challenges. From advanced lithium-ion batteries for laptops and EVs and specialized glass on smartphones and tablets, to the steel and cement that build the world around us, our high-performance bricks and linings make it possible to melt, bend, shape, and refine these materials at extreme temperatures.

With a vertically integrated value chain, RHI Magnesita has helped forge the materials that build industries and economies for almost 200 years. Refractory products are essential to the production processes for cement, steel, aluminum, and many other industrial producers in the region.

Come get fired up with our North American team!

North America | RHI Magnesita