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R&D Lab Technician

Job Opportunity

R&D Lab Technician

Channahon, Illinois, USA

INEOS Styrolution America LLC

Our Company: INEOS Styrolution is a leading global styrenics supplier, with a focus on styrene monomer, polystyrene, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene standard, and styrenic specialties. We offer excellent production facilities, revolutionary R&D centers, international reach, and over 90 years of experience pioneering real change through sustainable solutions, all while making the circular economy for styrenics a reality.

  • The global leader in styrenics: No. 1 leader in styrenics with a focus on Styrene Monomer, Polystyrene, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Standard and Styrenic Specialties
  • Employees: 3,600 worldwide
  • Production sites: 20 manufacturing sites in 10 countries
  • Customer base: Customers in 106 countries
  • Sales: 4 billion EUR in 2020

Safety remains and always will be our number one priority at INEOS. Our US locations are following the INEOS Covid protocols for new hires as a condition of employment:  

  • Candidates must be fully vaccinated prior to start date, and
  • Provide proof of Covid-19 vaccination, or
  • Willingness to obtain the vaccine before hire date and must be fully vaccinated prior to commencement of employment

The Position: R&D Lab Technician -The function exists to support the Americas Regional Development Center. The incumbent is expected to complete projects that include performing laboratory chemical and physical tests on raw materials, in-process products, and finished products as well as operating compounding, extrusion and injection molding equipment.  In addition, the incumbent will need to be able to troubleshoot and do minor repairs of equipment, contribute to creative thinking of test modifications, and perform safety inspections. The incumbent is expected to communicate the test results and equipment status to the appropriate people.

Requirements:

  • At least two years of college with an emphasis in math and science (BS degree is preferred) plus two years’ experience as a laboratory technician, or
  • Five years’ experience as a laboratory technician.
  • Very good knowledge of compounding, extrusion and injection molding of plastics.  Experience with styrenics based plastics is preferred.
  • Ability to understand and interpret testing results.
  • Ability to use creative thinking to solving technical problems 
  • Ability to develop testing methods according to customer specific requirements.
  • High attention to detail and ability to work efficiently in a highly organized manner.
  • Proficiency in basic computer skills.
  • Able and willing to work occasionally over time and over weekends
  • Provide input to team discussions on a variety of topics
  • Works well with a cross-functional team and varying personalities
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Ability to break down complex issues down to small components to aid in troubleshooting

Responsibilities:

  • Perform physical tests such as impact strength, tensile strength, tensile modulus, flexural strength, melt flow, etc and document results.
  • Perform testing on a number of analytical test instrumentation such as: GC, NMR, colorimeter, FTIR, DSC, etc.
  • Operate compounding, extrusion and injection molding equipment.
  • Perform routine calibrations per plan in compliance with ISO 17025 and ISO 9001.
  • Follow "Overall Maintenance Work Flow" process and initiate work notifications as required. Assist maintenance personnel when appropriate.
  • Troubleshoot equipment and perform basic repairs.
  • Maintain understanding of basic emergency equipment use (absorbent, deluge systems, fire extinguisher, etc.).
  • Responsible for maintaining a high standard of housekeeping.
  • Maintain knowledge and compliance with all applicable site safety, environmental and industrial hygiene standards and practices.
  • Train, re-certify and demonstrate proficiency and knowledge as directed or required.
  • Coordinate third party lab testing as directed.
  • Responsible for sending and receiving bulk and small sample shipments.
  • Liberally communicate results and activities.
  • Communicate project status, writing reports of special projects, communicate with others in the group (written and verbal), equipment status, etc.
  • Fork truck driving as needed

Physical Requirements:

  • Frequent: Viewing a computer monitor, stooping/crouching, balancing, climbing, twisting/turning, reaching above shoulder level, simple grasping/manipulation of both hands, lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs, pushing/pulling from a standing/seating position, firm grasping of both hands, operating machinery
  • Occasional: Exposure to dust/gas fumes, chemical/solvents, temperature extremes, high noise levels and electrical sources, wearing occlusive clothing
  • Seldom: Exposure to allergic agents, enclosed  spaces, kneeling, crawling, wet conditions and reduced lighting

The Location: This opportunity is located in Channahon, Illinois, only 10 miles from Joliet.

What we offer to you: 

  • Competitive salaries, performance-related pay, and bonuses.
  • A comprehensive benefits package with low premiums including health, short term disability, and life and accidental death insurance plans
  • Retirement savings with company match + contributions
  • Fitness and tuition reimbursement
  • Flexible work environment
  • Career development and progression

We are INEOS Styrolution because:

It does not matter where you come from, who you are or how you see yourself. We have an inclusive approach that is open and transparent and welcomes talent first and foremost. At INEOS, we believe a diverse business provides the right platform for open and innovative thinking, and that’s where the best ideas come from. We are an equal opportunity employer and champion diversity.

We are excited to hear from you and share more about our organization.

All the best,

The INEOS Styrolution Talent Team

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