Job Description
Job Overview:
Laboratory Technician
Location: South Bend, IN
What is IP Corporation:
At IP Corporation, we empower you to make a difference, learn new skills, and achieve your goals. We’re committed to providing rewarding career opportunities, and we’re always looking for talented individuals to join our team.
IP Corporation has been a supplier to the composites industry for over six decades. With our four subsidiaries (Interplastic, North American Composites, Molding Products, and HK Research), we are uniquely positioned to meet the needs of our diverse customers. More than ever, our commitment to becoming the finest supplier and distributor of resins, gel coats, and composite materials in our industry still stands.
What you’ll do as a Lab Technician:
The Lab Technician will primarily support testing and development activities related to SMC materials and paste within the laboratory environment. This role will work closely with chemists and laboratory leadership to support product testing, R&D projects, raw material sampling, molding operations, and laboratory organization. This position requires someone who is energetic, reliable, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a chemical manufacturing environment with fiberglass reinforcements and industrial laboratory equipment.
What you can expect to do as a Lab Technician:
- Test SMC materials, paste, and related products within the laboratory environment.
- Support chemists and laboratory personnel with various research and development projects.
- Operate laboratory equipment including mixers, viscometers, NIR spectrophotometers, and other testing instruments.
- Verify raw material product codes and batch numbers prior to use.
- Add, weigh, mix, and pour raw materials and chemicals following proper procedures.
- Mold and measure SMC test panels for product evaluation and testing.
- Support molding, mixing, and SMC machine operations within the R&D laboratory.
- Set up and operate machines and presses safely and efficiently.
- Sample raw materials from the plant and maintain organization within the R&D storage areas.
- Accurately document experimental data, testing results, and laboratory activities.
- Handle and properly record hazardous waste materials.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
- Support shifting laboratory priorities and assist with additional projects or duties as assigned by chemists, laboratory managers, or leadership.
- Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements.
What we’re looking for in a Lab Technician:
- High School Diploma or equivalent required.
- Previous industrial, manufacturing, or laboratory experience preferred.
- Ability to work in a chemical manufacturing environment with fiberglass reinforcements and chemical materials.
- Experience handling chemicals, weighing materials, mixing compounds, or operating industrial/laboratory equipment is preferred.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately document laboratory data and testing results.
- Comfortable operating mixers, presses, viscometers, spectrophotometers, and related equipment.
- Ability to multitask and adapt to changing priorities within a fast-paced environment.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Ability to maintain a clean and safe work environment.
- Ability to lift up to 45 pounds.
- Computer literacy with Microsoft Office applications including Word and Excel.
- Ability to always follow safety procedures and PPE requirements.
Why IP Corporation?
- Positive, challenging, and supportive work environment.
- Competitive benefits, including dental, vision, generous PTO, 401(k) with company match, and more.
- Freedom to innovate and make a difference in a vibrant, values-driven company that cares about its people.
IP Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and encourages diversity in the workplace.
Monday - Friday, 1st shift - 8:00am - 5:00pm
