R&D - Senior Technician

The R&D Senior Technician will be responsible for the lab‑scale through pilot‑scale development of cathode synthesis techniques that improve battery performance, reduce cost and complexity, and increase yield. The role will be focused on Duracell’s patented Power Boost cathode ingredient. The Senior Technician will work with process engineers and chemists to conduct reactions, separations, and other processes to drive key learnings for the Power Boost material.

The role will require the safe operation and setup/decommissioning of lab and pilot‑scale chemical reactors and chemical separation, drying, and mixing equipment. The Senior Technician will also be responsible for writing or helping to write procedures, leading qualification of new equipment setups, and training junior technicians. The work will require handling of hazardous materials and occasionally the use of respirators.

Experiments will be documented and communicated to the technical team, and the lab will be kept in safe and clean condition.

The role may require infrequent travel, up to 10% of the time, domestically.

• With supervision/coaching from senior scientists and engineers in the materials development group, conduct chemical experiments focused on improving the quality, cost, or yield of the Power Boost active material, and recovery of byproducts.
• Communicate effectively within the team to highlight concerns or suggest improvements to lab work, and to maintain an adequate supply of chemicals and consumables.
• Organize and properly label and submit samples for analytical chemistry tests, and compile and summarize results in a logical format.
• Record experimental data in laboratory notebooks. Communicate results to senior technical staff and supervisors. Present results to technical teams.
• Install, qualify operation, and author or update procedures for new and relocated lab equipment in Duracell’s brand‑new R&D site in Atlanta, GA.
• Always work respectfully in collaboration with a lab buddy.
• Handle chemicals and waste in accordance with Duracell’s procedures.
• Keep a clean, safe workspace according to regulatory requirements and best practice.
• Occasionally, support cell prototyping by preparing materials, assisting builds, or assembling cells by hand.

• Degree in a scientific discipline. Chemistry or materials science preferred, but also including forensic science, biology, physics, and other research or lab‑based degrees.
• Applicant must be comfortable with the handling of hazardous materials and use of respiratory protection. Experience with both is a plus.
• Experience working in a lab environment and knowledge of safe lab practices.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow procedures to maintain a safe working environment is required.
• A mechanical aptitude, including experience maintaining, cleaning and rebuilding equipment, and proficiency with hand tools is a plus.

Duracell is the world’s leading manufacturer and marketer of high‑performance alkaline batteries, complemented by a portfolio of high quality, market‑leading specialty, rechargeable and professional batteries. Duracell’s products power numerous critical professional devices across the globe such as heart rate monitors, defibrillators, telemetry devices, smoke detectors, fire alarms, automated valves and security systems. As the leader in the professional power category, Duracell has a rich history of innovation, continuously introducing batteries that are smaller, thinner, with more energy and longer lasting than competitive brands.

Since March 2016, Duracell has found its permanent home within Berkshire Hathaway (ranked #4 World's Most Admired Companies by Fortune Magazine and #3 in the Fortune 500), and will continue to focus on sustainable growth, industry‑leading innovation while creating long‑term value for our customers and consumers. At Duracell, integrity, end‑to‑end accountability across all levels, fast decision‑making and a “can do” attitude is highly valued.

• Job Identification 976
• Job Category R&D
• Degree Level Bachelor's Degree
• Job Schedule Full time
• Job Shift NA
• Locations 14 Research Drive, Bethel, CT, 6801, US