What are the responsibilities and job description for the Materials Research Associate position at Idaho Forest Group?
POSITION SUMMARY
The Materials Research Associate will play a key role in supporting advanced research initiatives in wood science and bio-product development. This position bridges hands-on experimentation with analytical responsibilities, assisting the Director of Research and contributing to the design, execution, and interpretation of experiments.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
- Assist in planning and executing laboratory and pilot-scale experiments in wood science and related fields.
- Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data; prepare summaries and technical reports.
- Collaborate with senior researchers to refine methodologies and troubleshoot experimental challenges.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
- Support preparation of presentations, publications, and intellectual property documentation.
- Stay informed about regulatory requirements, industry standards, emerging technologies, and market dynamics related to fiber products
- Other duties as needed.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Wood Science, Forestry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related discipline.
- 2 years of experience in research or product development (academic or industrial setting), with a focus on sustainable materials or forestry products.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; proficiency with data analysis tools and software.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a collaborative environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and team interaction.
- Valid driver's license
- Ability to pass a hair follicle drug test, post-offer pre-employment physical, and background check.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Ph.D. or master's degree in materials science, forestry, chemical engineering, or related field.
- Experience in technical sales and laboratory research, with the ability to translate wood science and fiber product innovations into practical, customer-focused solutions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS- Office, Finance, Corporate, Mill Supervisory
Ability to sit and/or stand for shift, reach with hands and arms, stoop, squat, bend at the waist, kneel, walk varying distance, and climb stairs.
- Bend at waist – occasional
- Twist upper body – occasional
- Stoop – occasional
- Lift above waist height – occasional
- Lift over 50 lbs. - rare
- Repetitive use of hands – constant for clerical duties
- Stand/walk – occasional
- Sit – frequent
- Vision – near and far correctable; depth perception
- Hearing – preferred for awareness of surrounding machinery, mobile equipment, emergencies
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Must be able to tolerate all weather elements, loud conditions, airborne particles (sawdust).
Idaho Forest Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, family medical history, or any other status protected by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.