Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Senior Plastics Lab Technician with a strong hands-on mindset and a proven ability to build, optimize, and operate laboratory environments. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced setting, takes initiative, and brings both technical expertise and practical problem-solving skills. The ideal candidate has deep experience in pigment and additive masterbatch development and is comfortable engaging directly with customers while helping drive innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute formulation, compounding, and testing plastic materials, with a focus on pigment and additive masterbatches
- Operate and maintain lab equipment such as extruders, mixers, spectrophotometers, and testing instruments
- Support lab setup, expansion, and continuous improvement initiatives, including equipment selection and workflow optimization
- Troubleshoot processing and formulation issues, providing practical, data-driven solutions
- Conduct color matching, dispersion analysis, and performance evaluations
- Document formulations, test results, and procedures with accuracy and clarity
- Collaborate with R&D and commercial teams to help scale lab developments into customers’ production
- Interface with customers to understand technical requirements, present findings, and support product development
- Stay informed on industry trends, new materials, and emerging technologies to contribute to innovation
Qualifications:
- 5+ years of hands-on experience in plastics laboratory or compounding environment
- Direct experience with pigment and additive masterbatch formulation and processing
- Demonstrated involvement in lab setup, startup, or expansion projects
- Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with processing equipment
- Ability to work independently with a proactive, “doer” mentality
- Experience in color science, dispersion, and polymer performance testing necessary
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage in customer-facing situations
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and documentation skills
Preferred Skills
- Familiarity with polymers such as PE, PP, PS, ABS, and engineering resins
- Experience scaling formulations from lab to production
- Knowledge of quality systems and testing standards (ASTM, ISO)
- Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and innovation
Pay: From $70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
