What are the responsibilities and job description for the Russell Standard - Lab Technician position at Ergon Asphalt and Emulsions, Inc?
Join Russell Standard and work at the intersection of road preservation and asphalt science. From asphalt emulsions to specialty products, we create quality materials to solve almost any problem, as well as preserve existing roads with a range of treatments. This contributes to the building of safe, durable, and cost-effective roadways for communities across the US. In turn, these quality infrastructures help to connect goods and services with those who need them.
Our products are great. But as a company, we know we are only as good as our people. Join our team and help move our communities and country forward.
The Product Development Lab Technician supports the development and improvement of asphalt products, including asphalt binders, emulsions, and modified asphalts. This position is responsible for preparing test samples, conducting laboratory performance tests, recording data, and assisting with formulation optimization to meet customer and regulatory specifications. The technician plays a critical role in supporting innovation and quality in asphalt products used for road construction and maintenance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare and test asphalt formulations, including emulsions, polymer-modified asphalts, and specialty binders
- Organize & conduct long-term & short-term gaining and reaction experiments with a variety of materials.
- Conduct standardized performance tests such as penetration, softening point, ductility, viscosity, flash point, DSR (Dynamic Shear Rheometer), and BBR (Bending Beam Rheometer)
- Perform application related testing such as mix designs, compatibility testing & field testing
- Utilize analytical equipment such as FTIR, particle size analysis, optical microscopy to perform forensic materials analysis
- Maintain, organize and record test data using standard documentation practices.
- Prepare reports and/or presentation of data, findings, and conclusions.
- Assist in the development and scaling up of new asphalt products from lab to plant production
- Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments and equipment
- Ensure all work complies with ASTM, AASHTO, Federal, State or Local DOT, and internal quality standards
- Work closely with other product development staff, as well as quality control, production/manufacturing, & end users to troubleshooting issues and ensure product consistency
- Travel & participate in plants trials, field trials or pilot projects as needed
- Remain up to date on industry practices, research, & significant advancements
- Maintain lab safety standards and proper handling of chemicals and bituminous materials
Qualifications:
- Associate's or bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Materials Science, Civil or Chemical Engineering Technology, or a related field
- 1–3 years of laboratory experience
- Basic understanding of rheology, polymers, and/or bituminous materials preferred
- Strong attention to detail and documentation skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and basic data analysis
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
Benefits
Our comprehensive benefits package includes:
- Competitive pay
- 401(k) matching & profit sharing
- Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- Short- and Long-Term Disability Plans
- Additional voluntary benefits
- Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
- Tuition assistance
Work Environment
This position requires its responsibilities to be performed in an asphalt emulsions manufacturing plant. Plants are outdoors and may require that work be done in adverse weather conditions. Work conditions may involve exposure to hot materials, chemicals, fumes, dust, odors, gases, and other substances used in a construction environment.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Russell Standard is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to high standards of business conduct and civil responsibility. The company does not discriminate in hiring, training, or employment, in accordance with the requirements of all applicable state and federal laws, based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Russell Standard intends to provide a work environment that is pleasant, professional, and free from intimidation, hostility, or other offenses that might interfere with work performance.
This is not an all-inclusive document. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors and/or management as deemed appropriate. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made (as appropriate to the position and company capabilities) to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function. Job descriptions are not intended as, and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.