Senior Research Technician – Superabrasives

Saint-Gobain Innovation Hub North America is looking for a hands‑on Senior Research Technician to support the development, scale‑up, and optimization of Superabrasive products and manufacturing processes. Reporting to a Senior Research Engineer II, this role is critical to advancing R&D programs from laboratory concepts to plant implementation. The successful candidate will work closely with scientists, engineers, manufacturing teams, and external partners to execute experiments, characterize materials, and support product commercialization.

• Execute experimental programs related to Superabrasive technologies, including bond systems, abrasive grains, grinding tools, and manufacturing processes.
• Prepare materials, operate laboratory equipment, perform testing, and collect high‑quality technical data to support research and development projects.
• Analyze, document, and communicate experimental results while maintaining accurate laboratory records and databases.
• Troubleshoot, maintain, and improve laboratory equipment and testing capabilities while supporting laboratory infrastructure and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support manufacturing trials, process scale‑up, technology transfer, and root‑cause investigations in collaboration with R&D and operations teams while ensuring compliance with safety and quality requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree, or demonstrated equivalent, in an engineering, technical, or science‑related field.
• 4–7 years of hands‑on experience in a laboratory, manufacturing, pilot plant, process development, testing, materials characterization, materials processing, or product development environment.
• Experience operating and troubleshooting laboratory or manufacturing equipment, collecting experimental data, and following technical procedures.
• General laboratory knowledge, including proper chemical handling and safe work practices.
• Ability to work effectively in both laboratory and manufacturing environments.
• Strong attention to detail when following experimental plans, documenting observations, and maintaining technical records.
• Ability to recognize and communicate equipment concerns, process deviations, unexpected results, safety issues, or unclear instructions.
• Ability to work independently, solve technical problems, and collaborate effectively with engineers, scientists, and manufacturing teams.
• Good written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Valid driver’s license for business travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with materials processing, thermal processing, powder handling, grinding tools, ceramics, abrasives, or similar manufacturing processes.
• Experience collecting, organizing, graphing, and presenting technical data using Microsoft Excel or statistical software.
• Experience supporting equipment installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, or capital equipment projects.
• Experience identifying opportunities to improve equipment reliability, laboratory methods, safety practices, or day‑to‑day processes.
• Experience helping train others on laboratory equipment, testing methods, or technical procedures.

Physical & Work Requirements

• This is an onsite position that includes work in laboratory and manufacturing environments.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and perform hands‑on work involving bending, kneeling, handling equipment, and repetitive motions.
• Ability to regularly handle laboratory equipment, tooling, powder containers, furnace fixtures, sample trays, supplies, and equipment components.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull approximately 25–50 lbs. Assistance and appropriate lifting equipment are available for heavier loads.
• Comfortable working around…