Research Technologist (Polymers)

The Research Technologist (Polymers) is located in the Global Innovation Center-Exton and is responsible for supporting the growth of the Engineered Materials business Unit and other businesses through application development, technical service, and testing on existing and new products. A significant component of this role is the preparation and evaluation of polymeric materials. This position will be working on multiple projects at a time and interacting with all scientists/engineers in the group.

This position reports to the R&D Operations Manager, who reports to the R&D Global Innovation Center (GIC) Director-Exton. This position will require active regular input and coaching from other scientists/engineers within the GIC.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulation: Prepare polymer formulations for processing via compounding, latex blending, etc.
• Processing: Extrude, injection mold, compression mold, etc. polymer formulations.
• Testing: Prepare test specimens via cutting, edge finishing, milling, etc. Follow established procedures to perform mechanical tests including notched Izod, tensile, Dynatup drop dart impact, melt flow rate etc. Perform measurements including optics, haze, color, gloss, and thermal properties.
• Data: Accurately document all observations and experimental results in electronic lab notebook. Organize and analyze data to explain conclusions to an internal audience. Write simple summaries of results.
• Equipment: Schedule and perform preventative maintenance on owned equipment; troubleshoot owned equipment and recommend improvements as needed. Train other operators as needed.

Other Duties as Assigned:

• Support the site EH&S policy and complies with all regulatory and internal requirements
• Participate in EH&S activities provided by Trinseo.
• Support and promote the reporting of all health, safety, environmental, near-miss, accident or injury incidents
• Prepare paper work, package, and ship out samples; maintain materials inventory
• Perform area housekeeping
• Work outlined by Lead Research Technologists
• Building Operations Support
• Work with Building/Operations manager on safety systems / support for fit-out and commissioning of relocated and new equipment
• General support of routine operations as needed
• Technical support for routine compounding, molding, and testing of thermoplastic systems supporting TS&D and Scientists

Context and Environment

• This is a key position within the R&D Global Innovation Center-Exton.  
• This position requires expertise in a wide range of areas, the ability to work independently, managing work on multiple projects simultaneously, and the ability to adapt to changing priorities in a rapidly changing business environment.
• Day-to-day programs and priorities will come from the supervisor.
• Obtaining quality results in a timely manner while carrying out experiments within the set guidelines of Safe Operating Procedures, site safety rules, prudent laboratory practices, and departmental rules.
• Limited Travel (<5%)

• High school Diploma with 5+ years of experience in polymer R&D laboratories and good laboratory practices or BS/BA degree with 2+ years polymer processing experience and good laboratory practice
• Demonstrated expertise on injection molding, extrusion, and other polymer processing equipment
• Demonstrated expertise in sample preparation and mechanical testing.
• Demonstrated expertise in generating accurate and reliable data in a timely manner.
• Proficient with computer software applications, especially Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience with polymer synthesis and wet chemistry is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently.
• Excellent organizational skills, strong interpersonal skills, independent problem solver

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to work with multiple Trinseo T&I engineers/scientists/commercial team in generating accurate and reliable data for specific projects.
• Good time management skills, prioritize tasks to meet commitments, adaptable to changing priorities.
• Stay focused under pressure, critically reviews work to ensure quality.
• Own, maintain, and upgrade pieces of equipment in support of activities.
• Maintain documentation system including lab notebooks and standard operating procedures for owned equipment.
• Handles problem independently and able to resolve issues without relying on extensive help from others.
• Work safely and actively participate in the GIC-NA safety program.

Equity and Inclusion

With our expanding global presence, cross-cultural insight and competence are essential for our ongoing success. We believe that a diverse workforce contributes different perspectives, experiences and creative ideas that enable us to continue to improve every day. Race, gender, ethnicity, country of origin, age, personal style, sexual orientation, physical ability, religion, work and life experiences and many more factors contribute to this diversity.  We welcome all applicants, regardless of their backgrounds, and are committed to a fair and inclusive hiring process.