Lab Technician

Vinmar Recycling Solutions is seeking a detail-oriented Lab Technician (Chemistry-focused) to support our growing recycling operation in Baytown, Texas. This role will be instrumental in managing daily laboratory activities, ensuring the quality of recycled plastic materials, and supporting ongoing product and process development.

This position offers the opportunity to work in a newly established lab environment with expanding testing capabilities, where you will play a key role in shaping lab processes and standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong chemistry background and hands-on experience with plastics testing methods and instrumentation.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory testing on inbound feedstocks, in-process materials, and finished recycled plastic products.  Also, converted film and/or molded material will be submitted for occasional testing to support VPA customer-related projects.
• Conduct affirmation testing on incoming supplier materials to ensure compliance with program specifications
• Prepare and condition samples in accordance with standard testing procedures
• Operate and maintain laboratory instruments, including:
• FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy)
• DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry)
• Notch Izod Impact Tester
• Melt Index (MI) equipment
• Density and Ash testing equipment
• In-house blown film line for product evaluation
• Eventually, additional finished film testing equipment is intended to be added, which may include some or all of the following:  Instron MTS (for Tensile Strength, Elongation, Secant Modulus testing), Elmendorf Tear Strength, Dart Drop Impact, Gloss/Haze, COF, and Hot Tack/Heat Seal
• Accurately record, analyze, and report test results to support quality control and process improvements
• Support blown film testing and evaluation for product performance validation
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, and adherence to safety protocols
• Assist in calibration, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance of lab equipment
• Collaborate with Quality and Operations teams to ensure materials meet internal and customer specifications
• Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of lab capabilities and processes
• Potentially supervise or mentor a lab assistant as the team expands
  

Schedule: Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field strongly preferred (Associate degree with relevant experience considered)
• 2 years of laboratory experience, ideally within plastics manufacturing or converting, polymer testing, or recycling environments
• Hands-on experience with plastics testing methods and equipment (FTIR, DSC, MI, etc.) strongly preferred
• Familiarity with polymer properties, material characterization, and quality testing standards
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow technical procedures accurately
• Proficiency in data recording, analysis, and reporting
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Basic computer skills (MS Office; LIMS experience a plus)

#VRS

• Health Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance - company-paid and voluntary
• 401(k) with company matching
• Employee assistance program
• Disability - company paid