What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lab Technician - R&D: 1st Shift (7:30am - 4pm) position at Hentzen Coatings, Inc?
Lab Technician – R&D
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 1st shift, (7:30 AM - 4:00PM)
Pay Range: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour (based on experience and qualifications)
Since 1923, Hentzen Coatings, Inc. has remained an independent, privately held company dedicated to excellence in the development and manufacture of advanced coatings. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and service has earned us recognition as a trusted partner and technology leader in the aerospace, defense, and industrial markets. With nearly a century of experience, we’ve mastered the art of custom-engineering coatings to meet the unique and demanding requirements of our customers. This innovation comes to life in our state-of-the-art facilities, where talented teams collaborate to solve complex challenges and deliver cutting-edge solutions.
Position Summary
The Lab Technician - R&D performs small production and lab sample batch-making tasks in the production of aerospace coatings products to meet customer specifications in accordance with established health, safety, and environmental procedures.
Successful candidates must achieve acceptable scores on both the color matching and math assessments.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Gathers raw materials, assembles batches, shades, and performs QC testing.
- Evaluates batches for conformance to specifications.
- Adjusts properties of individual batches within formulation guidelines.
- Performs testing related to product performance.
- Prepares customer samples and panels.
- May be required to perform all aspects of liquid batches of 10 gallons or less, such as dispersion, letdown, color matching, quality control, and filling.
- Maintains records of processes and results.
- Documents and records all actions taken in preparation of product.
- Records batch information on appropriate computer programs.
- Maintains standards for housekeeping and safety.
- Participate in housekeeping activities, including the proper disposal of hazardous waste in accordance with company procedures and regulatory requirements. Initial and annual hazardous waste training is provided by the Environmental and Safety Coordinator or department supervisor.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualification Requirements
- Preferred education level: Associate’s or two-year college degree or equivalent.
- Preferred experience level: One to three years’ experience in a laboratory setting preferred and preferably in coatings.
Skills and Abilities
- Working knowledge of basic algebra, percentages, and a variety of measuring and testing equipment, such as Karl Fischer, scales, grind gauge, KU viscometer.
- Advanced mathematical skills, including accurate metric-to-standard unit conversions.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for effective documentation and cross-functional collaboration.
- Highly proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook), ERP systems, and standard office equipment.
- Collaborative team player with a proven ability to work effectively in team-based environments.
- Demonstrated team-building strengths with strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
Physical Demands
- Regularly required to communicate verbally and audibly in a manufacturing or operational setting.
- Frequently required to stand, walk, and move throughout the work area.
- Regular use of hands and fingers to handle, manipulate, and control objects, tools, or equipment.
- Required to sit, balance, stoop, and occasionally reach above shoulder level.
- Occasional operation of machinery using foot controls
- May be required to climb, balance, and reach overhead as part of job duties.
- Ability to regularly lift and/or move up to 65 lbs.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Safety shoes, safety glasses, and flame-retardant uniforms or lab coats are required in production areas.
- Respirators and ear plugs are required for specific production processes.
Benefits
- Competitive benefits package.
- Generous PTO policy
- 401(k) Employer Match: We match employee contributions up to 8% of eligible compensation.
- Profit Sharing: Discretionary annual contribution based on company performance.
- Employee referral bonus program
- Monthly employee food trucks
- …and much more!
At Hentzen, you’ll find more than a job—you’ll discover an opportunity to learn, grow, and make an impact. If you’re ready to join a company known for its heritage of innovation and dedication to its people, we invite you to explore a rewarding career with us.
Please send your resume to:
Hentzen Coatings, Inc.
Attn: Human Resources
6937 W. Mill Road
Milwaukee, WI 53218
or
APPLY ONLINE AT:
Hentzen Career Center
Hentzen Coatings, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.
www.hentzen.com
All candidates are subject to post-offer testing: including a job-related pre-employment physical, drug screen, and background check.
M-F: 1st Shift
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Salary : $20 - $25