R&D Technician

Overview Salary Range: $47,000 - $60,000 Annually Summary

The R&D Technician I is an entry-level position that involves supporting various concrete and mortar research projects in a laboratory environment. Responsibilities include sourcing materials, preparing concrete mixes, casting specimens, and conducting plastic testing. The role also includes preparing and grinding samples as needed to ensure that they are within tolerance for testing compressive and flexural strength, along with other hardened specimen testing around the lab.

Additionally, the position involves maintaining curing tanks, drying rooms, managing the concrete lab area and pertinent equipment. This can consist of preparing molds, equipment and materials as needed. The R&D Technician I responsibilities are to assist and learn from concrete research projects to further the growth and knowledge of concrete material testing within the Ozinga R&D Laboratory.

The R&D Technician I is an entry-level position that involves supporting various concrete and mortar research projects in a laboratory environment. Responsibilities include sourcing materials, preparing concrete mixes, casting specimens, and conducting plastic testing. The role also includes preparing and grinding samples as needed to ensure that they are within tolerance for testing compressive and flexural strength, along with other hardened specimen testing around the lab.

Additionally, the position involves maintaining curing tanks, drying rooms, managing the concrete lab area and pertinent equipment. This can consist of preparing molds, equipment and materials as needed. The R&D Technician I responsibilities are to assist and learn from concrete research projects to further the growth and knowledge of concrete material testing within the Ozinga R&D Laboratory.

• Understand pertinent ASTM, AASHTO or other relevant testing standards/methods
• Gather raw materials and prepare the material according to the mix designs or trials provided
• Condition and cure samples according to specified methods
• Conduct testing on plastic/hardened concrete, mortar, or cementitious powders according to the appropriate test method
• Follow standard operating procedures and core process to ensure the consistency of the testing being done
• Maintain and manage the tools, equipment or other devices which are crucial for the testing being done
• Obtain level 1 certifications in relevant test methods

• Regular attendance and physical presence at work is an essential function of this position
• This job may require additional duties not listed above and the employee may be asked to perform those duties to meet business needs

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• IDOT Aggregate Level 1 Certification preferred
• ACI Strength Testing Certification preferred
• ACI Field Testing Certification preferred
• IDOT Level 1 Certification preferred
• 1 Year of Experience in concrete/cement industry preferred

• Minimum of 0-2 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Knowledge of Ready-mix manufacturing design, processes, and equipment is a plus, but not necessary
• State DOT and ACI certification is a plus, but not necessary
• Desire to gain practical skills and knowledge within the Concrete Industry
• Experience with Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Mac OS and general ability to navigate technology systems and equipment

• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to take on a high level of responsibility, initiative, and accountability
• Ability to learn and apply testing standards (ASTM and AASHTO)
• Ability to work in a team environment to achieve company objectives
• Strong organizational, multitasking and prioritization skills
• Working knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint, and Word

• Noise level is usually moderate, but can be high and requires personal hearing protection on occasion at job sites, plants, and laboratories
• Exposed to moving mechanical parts, vehicles, heavy construction equipment, toxic or caustic chemicals, and outside weather conditions
• Flexible in work assignments; open to working in multiple areas as necessary to get the job done
• Working with cement powder involves handling fine dust that can pose respiratory and skin irritation risks, requiring proper PPE, ventilation, and regular cleaning to ensure a safe work environment
• Working with fresh concrete involves exposure to wet, heavy material that can cause skin irritation or chemical burns, requiring the use of protective gloves, clothing, and proper handling techniques to ensure safety

• Regularly required to talk or hear; frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms
• Occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl
• Specific vision…