Technician I, R&D - Westlake Careers

Technician, Research & Development (R&D)

POSITION SCOPE:

Join the innovative team at Westlakes R&D Laboratory in Rialto, California, as a technician. In this role, you will play an integral part in supporting the research, development, and testing of concrete, clay, stone-coated metal, and stone-siding products. Your contributions will be vital in ensuring that our products meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and performance. This position offers a unique opportunity to work closely with cutting-edge materials and technologies, contributing to the advancement of sustainable building products.

Duties/Responsibilities

Key duties include, but are not limited to:

• Health, Safety, and Environmental Compliance: Adhere to all company HSE policies and programs, ensuring a safe working environment.
• Laboratory Support: Provide general support to all laboratory activities, maintaining a high standard of laboratory operations and equipment.
• Product Fabrication: Fabricate test specimens for daily tile strength tests, wood decks for permeability rain tests, and mock-up decks for various product testing.
• Third-Party Coordination: Coordinate with third-party technicians for external testing.
• Quality Control: Assist with internal quality audits and collaborate with the quality management team to address and correct audit failures.
• Material Testing and Development: Support the concrete and quality control departments by preparing and testing concrete samples, as well as setting up and using laboratory test equipment.
• Data Management: Navigate SAP for requisitions, purchase orders, invoice approvals, and maintain organized records of laboratory data.
• Reporting and Communication: Create PowerPoint presentations and word reports to effectively communicate project results and share knowledge on color and concrete performance.
• Equipment Maintenance: Perform preventive maintenance on all laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance.

JOB-RELATED QUALIFICATION STANDARDS:

Education and Experience:

• A high school diploma or equivalent work experience is required.
• Intermediate-level knowledge of concrete and laboratory operations.
• Proficiency in MS Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is required.
• Experience in a manufacturing or laboratory environment, focusing on quality and testing.
• Experience with concrete testing is preferred.
• Proficiency in SAP is preferred.

Required Abilities:

• Strong organizational, time management, and follow-up skills.
• Ability to work independently and carry projects from start to finish with minimal supervision.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, management, and external partners.
• Problem-solving skills, with the ability to handle complex tasks and resolve conflicts effectively.

Additional Requirements:

• Adaptability to Work Environment: Desire to work well in a fast-paced, deadline-driven, and customer-focused environment. Must be adaptable to overtime when required to meet project deadlines.

• Lifting: Ability to lift materials, which could be up to 40 pounds.
• Travel Requirements: Willingness to travel between plants as required.
• Driving: Capability to drive as needed for work-related tasks.

Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several US markets. The base pay range for this position is $50k. This range is based on relevant market data in our lowest and highest geographic markets. Pay is based on several factors including market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, experience and skillset. Westlake is a total compensation company. Dependent on the position offered, sign on payments, and other forms of compensation may be provided as part of a total compensation package (also to include a full range of medical and other benefits.

Westlake Corporation is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.