Materials Lab Assistant

About the Role

This is an entry-level position primarily responsible for daily sample preparation to support data collection and analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform day-to-day operations, including preparing samples and maintaining the lab in a state of readiness.
• Support maintenance, repair, and scheduling of laboratory equipment for optimum efficiency and uptime.
• Maintain lab equipment and supplies in a state of readiness.
• Complete daily, weekly, and monthly regular tasks to support the lab, including:
• Maintaining and ordering general supplies.
• Finding alternative suppliers to improve costs or performance.
• Maintaining the organization and cleanliness of the lab.
• Ensure the safe operation of all instruments, equipment, and procedures within the ACML.
• Takes directions from all ACML personnel.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Associate degree in chemistry or other science field is preferred.
• High school classes must include basic chemistry, physics, and algebra 2 with a B or better.
• No practical experience required.
• Mechanical experience or inclination is a plus.
• Understanding of lab best practices for safety.
• Must be able to learn:
• All sample preparation equipment in the lab, including but not limited to wet saw, hot press, polisher, various cutters, and other techniques as required.
• The safe handling and disposal of chemicals.
• The fundamentals of knowledge of polymers or rubber.
• The fundamentals of metallurgical sciences and other material sciences as needed.
• Ability to develop a broad knowledge about the practical application of technologies available in the lab along with other relevant analytical technologies.
• Must be able to learn maintenance of sample preparation equipment as needed and the development of new methods to meet internal and external customer needs.
• Strong verbal and interpersonal communication skills to communicate with highly skilled and advanced degreed personnel.
• Participates in the planning and completion of activities, queues, and priorities in a team environment.
• Understanding and ability to apply concepts of testing and measurements in support of sample preparation duties.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to learn other ERP systems, such as Oracle, and other programs used within Gates.

Work Environment

• The employee is frequently required to sit; use hands and fingers to work with objects, tools, or controls; and use office equipment including computers, telephones, and/or copiers/scanners.
• The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.

Pay & Benefits

• Full-Time
• Hourly Rate: $25.00-$29.00
• Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options.
• Benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire.
• Eligible for 3 weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days.
• 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match.
• Tuition Reimbursement.