Research & Development Technician

We are seeking a Research and Development Technician based in our Chicago, IL location to join the Development Engineering team. This position is fully on-site and requires travel of 10-20% within USA. Address: 4849 S. Austin Ave. Chicago, IL 60638

Ready to help build a better future for generations to come?

• Product Testing:
  Test ceiling systems and materials, including strength, fire, and seismic testing. Build mock-ups, document results, and support product development. Some travel is required.
• Quality Assurance and Compliance:
  Evaluate products against industry standards and internal requirements through accurate testing, measurement, and documentation.
• Prototype Design and Fabrication:
  Build prototypes, test fixtures, and ceiling mock-ups using hand tools, power tools, and fabrication techniques. Read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Data Collection and Reporting:
  Record, analyze, and report test data using Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and communicate findings clearly.
• Laboratory and Equipment Maintenance:
  Maintain clean, safe, and organized lab and testing areas. Manage tools, materials, and equipment; troubleshoot issues; and coordinate equipment repairs and calibration.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  Work with Engineering, Quality Assurance, Production, project managers, and external testing partners to plan tests, communicate progress, resolve issues, and support product compliance.
• Safety:
  Follow safety procedures and ensure the safe use of tools, ladders, PPE, and material handling equipment, including compliance by lab visitors and team members.
• Ownership and Continuous Improvement:
  Manage assigned tasks and lab resources independently, meet deadlines, and proactively improve laboratory organization, workflows, and processes.

• Associate degree with five years of relevant experience, or seven years of related experience in lieu of a degree.
• ASQ Certified Quality Technician (CQT) certification or willingness to obtain it within one year.
• Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, measurement instruments, and Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, interpret test data, and communicate findings clearly.
• Ability to work on ladders, perform overhead work, and lift or carry up to 50 lbs.
• Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, problem-solving, organization, and time management skills.
• Effective communication, teamwork, initiative, and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Hands‑on approach to testing, fabrication, troubleshooting, material handling, and laboratory organization.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety.
• Experience with ceiling systems, construction mock‑ups, mechanical assembly, fabrication, or machine shop practices is preferred.
• Knowledge of 5S or workplace organization methods is preferred.
• A valid forklift license in good standing is preferred.

• Competitive Pay & Benefits from Day 1:
  Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401K Match:
  Up to 6%
• Paid Time Off:
  Generous PTO, 12 paid holidays, and parental leave.
• Educational Assistance & Career Growth:
  Invest in your future.
• Wellness Perks:
  Fitness reimbursement and EAP access.
• Safety First:
  Company-provided PPE and programs to keep you protected.

The annual salary range for this role is $65,000 - 75,000.

We are the world leader in stone wool solutions. Founded in 1937 in Denmark, we transform volcanic rock into safe, sustainable products that help people and communities thrive. We are a global company with 12,000 employees, located in 37 countries with 36 manufacturing facilities, all focused on one common purpose – to release the natural power of stone to enrich modern living.

Sustainability is…