Production Technician II

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Job Title Materials Testing Technician II Responsible for conducting material property testing, laboratory analysis, process monitoring, and quality verification activities to support the production of high-quality ceramic powders and materials. Utilizes specialized testing equipment and statistical process control methods to evaluate materials, verify compliance with specifications, and identify process deviations. Acts as a critical quality gatekeeper between Engineering and Production by ensuring materials and processes meet established requirements and standards.

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Performs intermediate level calculations and appropriately uses formulas to calculate surface areas, volumes, weights, densities and various other measures.
• Uses SPC and technical programs to do in-depth troubleshooting and improve materials and processes.
• Interprets more complex SPC control charts and capability studies for processes that require the use and application of statistical and other company software.
• Works with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to resolve technical and process-related issues.
• Performs material property testing and characterization activities, including viscosity, density, rheology, and other laboratory analyses.
• Conducts chemical analysis and microscopy evaluations to verify material performance and compliance with specifications.
• Utilizes laboratory testing equipment and measurement systems to evaluate materials and support quality objectives.
• Coordinates external material testing activities, including purity testing and related analytical services, ensuring proper sample submission and tracking.
• Continuously monitors material and process performance to ensure compliance with established specifications and quality requirements.
• Acts as a quality gatekeeper between Engineering and Production to ensure materials and processes meet defined standards prior to release.
• Identifies, documents, and communicates process or material deviations to appropriate leadership in a timely manner.
• Generates and maintains testing records, laboratory reports, and process monitoring documentation.
• Supports investigations related to material performance, process variation, and quality concerns through data collection and analysis.
• Works independently on assigned projects and testing activities.
• Assists in training and mentoring other technicians on laboratory procedures, testing methods, and quality requirements.
• Assists and/or performs in any and all areas as assigned.
• May work any and all shifts/days as required.
• May set up production machines and test equipment and troubleshoot when abnormalities arise; suggests and implements cost-saving solutions and/or reports all process and material deviations to appropriate leadership in a timely manner.
• Works directly with Technicians, Engineering, Manufacturing and Quality to continually improve processes.

Job Requirements:

Education:

• High school diploma GED or equivalent
• Associate degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Engineering Technology, Manufacturing Technology, or related technical field preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of laboratory, materials testing, quality, manufacturing, or process monitoring experience.
• Experience working with testing equipment and laboratory procedures required.

Functional/Technical Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Intermediate language, math and computer skills.
• Intermediate understanding and practical application of Statistical Process Controls (SPC)
• Utilizes higher math skills to calculate surfaces, volumes, weights, densities and various other measures.
• Experience using laboratory and material testing equipment.
• Knowledge of material property testing techniques, data collection, and reporting.
• Ability to interpret test results, identify trends, and communicate findings effectively.
• Experience with microscopy, rheology, viscosity testing, chemical analysis, or similar laboratory techniques preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and…