Research and Development Technician II - Morgan Advanced Materials

Morgan Advanced Materials is a business rich in history and innovation. Founded in the UK in 1856, we have grown into a global organisation with 70 sites in 18 countries. Our model to serve our customers where they need us has led to a diversified product range using our unparalleled expertise in ceramic and carbon materials, which we exploit to solve difficult problems for our customers across a diverse range of markets.

We are a purpose driven organisation. Our purpose is to use advanced materials to make the world more sustainable and to improve the quality of life. We deliver on that purpose through the products that we make, and the way that we make them.

The Thermal Ceramics division designs, manufactures and installs a broad range of thermal insulation products that significantly reduce energy consumption and emissions in a variety of high temperature processing applications. Our product offering is extensive and covers application needs from Industrial to Commercial markets.

Key Figures: Revenue £1,114.7m (2023), ~8,500 employees, manufacturing in 20+ countries, and a global customer portfolio. A UK PLC with head office located in Windsor, Berkshire UK.  Listed on London Stock Exchange; Member of the FTSE 250 Index.

Responsibilities:

POSITION SUMMARY

The Research and Development Technician II is responsible for providing labor and technical assistance in support of process improvement and technical sales for the America’s region.

JOB FUNCTIONS

• Perform testing and reporting in accordance with established procedures or according to the directions of the R&D Engineer.
• Assist in the production of samples for internal testing / external evaluations by end customers.
• Collect, organize and share information generated during testing and trials.
• Organize laboratory trials and support plant trials to evaluate new ideas and processes.
• Evaluate competitive products that will be used to improve our existing products and processes.
• Carry out assigned statistically designed experiments to develop new products and improve manufacturing process.
• Execute testing within allotted timeframe in a safe and effective manner according to written procedures.
• Summarize data and other information collected during testing within appropriate timeframes upon completion of testing.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or GED required. Associate or Technical degree preferred.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in research and development or related field.
• Prior experience in manufacturing, quality or other technical laboratories strongly preferred.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Proficient in basic math, reading and writing. This includes conducting calculations such as: multiplication, division, averaging and unit conversion.
• Data entry skills and basic report writing knowledge.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and tasks.
• Ability to analyze data and plan improvement activities.
• Possess good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work cohesively within a team and independently with minimal supervision.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing systems and processes.

SCHEDULE DESCRIPTION

The typical schedule for this position is Monday through Friday, eight (8) hours per day, however must be flexible to work different shifts if needed. Overtime, weekend, and holiday work as needed. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and walk.
• Frequently use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools, and controls.
• The employee is frequently required to talk and hear to communicate with coworkers.
• Occasionally required to climb, stoop, bend and reach with hands and arms.
• The employee is occasionally required to push or pull with hands or arms, kneel or crouch.
• The employee must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to distinguish shades and colors.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• This position will work primarily in a laboratory setting, with some time in a controlled office environment as well as on the production floor.
• The noise level is consistently above 85 decibels when on the production floor.
• During summer months, employee may have to work in temperatures as high as 110 degrees for prolonged periods of time.
• Dust from machine processes is constantly present on the production floor.
• The employee occasionally works near mechanical parts and lift trucks.
• Required to wear steel toed shoes, safety glasses and ear plugs in the production area. Respirators may be required in specific areas of the plant.

Morgan Advanced Materials is an EEO/AA/M/W/D/V Employer Ind-1