Lab Technician, Process

Celanese Corporation is a global chemical leader in the production of differentiated chemistry solutions and specialty materials used in most major industries and consumer applications. This position is located at the Auburn Hills Michigan Product Development site.  Primary responsibilities include compounding small batch materials and performing physical and analytical tests on thermoplastic materials. This work aids in the development of new products and allows the product development team to determine which materials to scale up to commercial product level. This position will also work closely with the team at the Troy compounding site helping to solve customer issues.  

This independent contributor role supports preparation, mixing and testing of Thermoplastic materials as part of the product and application development process.

Responsibilities include:

• Excellent safety record and fundamental knowledge of laboratory safety.
• Hands-on testing, including mechanical, physical, thermal, chemical, and rheological testing, adhering to internal procedures and/or standardized methods (ISO/ASTM).
• Sample preparation methods including injection and compression molding.
• Formulation development including weighing, blending, and extruding new formulations.
• Detailed documentation and record-keeping, accurate calculations, and basic report preparation.
• Diligent compliance with lab procedures, and quality/safety program requirements.
• Collaboration with other lab team members and product/application developers.

• Minimum HS diploma required. BS in Chemistry, Material Science, or related field is a plus.
• Minimum 2 years lab experience required.
• Experience in polymer processing and testing preferred, including methods such as:
• Injection/compression molding.
• Testing methods including tensile, hardness, rheology (capillary, APA, rotational rheometer, DMA), DSC/TGA, microscopy, heat/chemical aging, color measurements.
• Ability to communicate clearly with technical team.
• Strong track record of safety and quality commitment. Good housekeeping practices.
• Ability to safely handle lab risks such as chemical handling, thermal hazards, compressed gases, rotating/heavy equipment.
• Self-motivated with drive for continuous improvement.
• Ability to use MS PowerPoint, Excel, Word, and Laboratory Information Management Software (LIMS) with training.
• Experience with ISO 17025 and/or IATF 16949 preferred.
• Candidates must be able to lift 55 lbs and operate fork truck occasionally.