Job SummaryThe Advanced Researcher will operate under the direction of R&D Manager and Senior Researchers, contributing to R&D functions with autonomy in planning and executing routine testing activities. Primary job activities consist of: design new product formulation and support or lead commercialization, contribute to expansion of core R&D capabilities, independent sample mixing and preparation, physical and performance testing of adhesive and coating samples, testing of raw materials and finished goods, recording and retention of test data in proper locations.
Duties & Responsibilities- Formulation development and sample preparation, preparing and testing adhesive and coating samples.
- Conduct DOE studies to optimize and explore design spaces in adhesive formulation
- Run tests of liquid and cured samples, collecting data and providing technical insights.
- Operate and maintain instruments including: Mixers, Viscometers, FTIR Spectrometer, Shore Hardness Gages, Hegman Gage, DSC, TGA, Instron Tensile Tester and other equipment.
- Introduce new formulating methodologies, RM and chemistry design methods, new test methods, etc., to contribute on the expansion of R&D capabilities
- Maintain proper records of all samples prepared and tested in lab notebooks and digital systems, elaborating technical reports.
- Conducting required tests on scale up batches of new products manufactured in the plant.
- Assist in investigation and resolution of customer complaints when requested.
- Participate in customer interactions to collect and understand customer needs, define product development targets and be responsible for project management of assigned projects, actively track project progress, report project status and challenges, and seek support to overcome barriers, working independently to complete projects with reasonable scope/complexity.
- Maintain a clean, safe working environment by following routine housekeeping standards.
- Observe safety and security procedures and use equipment and materials properly.
- Maintains the standards and commitment as defined in the Companies quality policy.
- Assist on special projects assigned by R&D Manager.
- Keep track of laboratory tasks.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills & Abilities- Excellent organizational skills with the ability to work on multiple activities while maintaining attention to detail.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Effectively written and oral communication and interpersonal skills, and ability to work cross-functionally.
- Ability to work independently to complete projects with reasonable scope/complexity
- Experience with project management, planning, risk assessment, and reporting skills
- Experience with computer programs used in laboratories (Microsoft Word, Excel etc.)
- Ability and desire to learn new skills and interested in continuous improvement.
Education & Experience- Associate or Bachelor's Degree or relevant coursework in Science/Chemistry preferred, but will consider candidates with > 10 years relevant laboratory experience.
- 5 years' experience in materials R&D environment as reference (> 5 years' experience in materials R&D environment for Adv. Researcher II)
- Master's Degree or PhD in Science/Chemistry will be considered a differential
- Previous experience in the coatings, adhesives or materials industry specifically electrical conductive adhesive is highly preferred.
- Ability to read and follow procedures, technical work instructions etc. within an ISO 9001 environment.
Physical Requirements- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Prolonged periods of standing and working at a lab bench.
- Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
Location: Billerica, Massachusetts
Pay: This position has a base salary, The actual salary may vary based upon several factors, including, but not limited to, relevant skills/experience, time in the role, business line, and geographic location.
Bonus Pay: Meridian offers a performance-based incentive plan tied to company success. Eligible employees have the opportunity to earn a percentage of their salary, with bonus payments distributed yearly.
Benefits: - Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits
- Health Savings Account & Flexible Spending Account Plans
- Retirement Plan with company contributions
- Generous Paid Time Off plan increasing based on seniority
- 11 Company Paid Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave
- Company Paid Life Insurance
- Company Paid Short Term Disability
- Generous Employee Referral Bonus Program
- Annual Paid Volunteer Day
- Employee Assistance Program
Meridian Adhesives Group
