Position Overview:

Conducts directed research and laboratory testing of fabrics, components, cording, metal, and resin hardware for existing products, line extensions and new products. Testing may involve production processes associated with slitting, printing, stacking, inspecting and collating of fabric.

What you'll do

• Conducts research and laboratory testing on items that may include: fabrics, components, cording, metal, and resin hardware, work processes and production equipment for new product design based upon assignments received from a member of the Engineering staff. May organize methodology for the testing process based upon new product development, existing product performance, product specifications, manufacturing parameters, scrap and yield ratios, material characteristics, failure modes and safety analysis.
• Follows recognized research and development testing methodology. Assists with product file notes that may support in establishing reliability and validity of test results that are obtained. Documents the procedures and findings arrived at within a personal laboratory notebook. Maintains additional testing documentation for ISO purposes.
• Communicates with other Technicians and Engineers regarding testing procedures and results to receive feedback and troubleshoot problems encountered.
• Operates production equipment such as, printers, collators and stackers to conduct production

tests; to analyze product results, and work processes. May arrange for availability of production equipment for testing purposes with Production Manager or Production Scheduler. Sets up and operates production equipment during the testing phase.

• May operate various machine shop equipment such as lathe, belt sander, drill press and band saw in the testing phase and building of prototypes.
• May build prototypes for use during the testing process using such mediums as, wood, metal, resins and extrusions. Assists in the building of production equipment on an as needed basis. Builds hand models and prototypes for use during focus group presentations.
• Conducts performance testing on equipment, components and processes to improve upon efficiency, safety and quality. Work may be self-directed or reviewed and assigned by an Engineer as a project.
• Conducts research and laboratory testing on items that may include: yarns, fabrics, adhesives, work processes and production equipment for new product design based upon assignments received from a member of the Engineering staff. May organize methodology for the testing process based upon new product development, existing product performance, product specifications, manufacturing parameters, scrap and yield ratios, material characteristics, failure modes and safety analysis.
• Identify and understand the function of all PLC settings and tensions.
• Conducts performance testing on raw materials, WIP and Finished Goods and processes improve upon efficiency, safety and quality.

Who you are

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• An advanced technical degree is desirable.
• Experience as a R&D Technician in a production environment would be beneficial.
• Basic knowledge of PC and computer software such as Word and Excel.
• Solid knowledge of the principles of research and laboratory testing methodology.
• Basic knowledge of, and ability to use, algebraic equations in the laboratory testing
• process when using variables to test for various cause and effect relationships due to the

change or adjustment of those variables.

• Solid knowledge of all work processes and operational equipment necessary for production purposes within the business function such as, slitting, printing, color matching, stacking and collating.
• Solid knowledge of report writing and proper documentation procedures used in research and development.
• All other duties as assigned

What's in it for you?

• Hourly range $19.00-$26.00
• Bonus target range: 2.5%
• Working hours are 6:00am-2:30pm plus OT
• Generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability
• A company culture that prioritizes internal development and professional growth
• Time off with pay
• 401(k) plan with a degree of employer matching
• Paid parental leave
• Wellness programs and product discounts

Please note, all offers presented to candidates are carefully crafted to ensure market competitiveness, equity, and reflect the individual candidate’s education, experience, skills and potential.

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