Analytical Instruments Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Technical Assistant | Research & Technology

Arclin has an immediate opening for an on-site Technical Assistant, Research & Technology for our Spruance Facility, which is located in Richmond, VA. 

About Arclin:

You can find Arclin everywhere. Our technologies make homes and transportation safer, help crops flourish, keep water clean, protect first responders and members of the military, and preserve the purity of essential pharmaceuticals. These vital, everyday products can't fail, and we’re here to give the world an extra layer of performance and peace of mind.
With ~4,000 team members across more than 30 global manufacturing facilities, we operate with the scale to make a global impact and the agility to solve complex challenges at the molecular level. Rooted in scientific discovery and innovation, Arclin’s materials redefine performance across industries - from Firepoint®’s patented intumescent technology that helps stall flames and save lives to the iconic Kevlar® and Nomex® brands trusted to protect those who serve, strengthen aerospace and industrial systems, and perform where reliability and safety are top of mind.
As we expand our mission‑critical materials portfolio and shape the next era of performance technologies, we’re looking for people who want to grow, lead, and solve the challenges others can’t. Together, we’ll advance the innovations that keep the world moving. Because at Arclin, our people are truly Vital Beyond Measure.

Position Summary

Arclin is seeking a Technical Assistant to support research, product development, process optimization, and testing activities within the Research & Technology (R&T) organization at the Spruance Plant in Richmond, Virginia. This role will primarily support process development and pilot operations while partnering across multiple R&D disciplines to execute experiments, collect and analyze data, operate research equipment, and contribute to the successful development of new products and technologies.

The ideal candidate is hands-on, detail-oriented, safety-focused, and thrives in a fast-paced research and manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform work safely and in compliance with all company safety, environmental, and operating procedures.
• Conduct laboratory, pilot plant, and semiworks experiments according to established protocols and test plans.
• Prepare samples, collect data, document results, and communicate findings to technical teams.
• Analyze experimental results, identify abnormalities or inconsistencies, and provide recommendations for improvement.
• Operate, inspect, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory and semiworks equipment.
• Assist scientists, engineers, and researchers in the execution of development and evaluation programs.
• Maintain laboratory organization, chemical inventories, supplies, and equipment readiness.
• Support planning, scheduling, and coordination of laboratory activities and testing programs.
• Participate in technical discussions, project meetings, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support innovation, product development, and process improvement efforts.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED
• Must be authorized to work in the United States and eligible to access export-controlled information in accordance with applicable regulations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to learn new software applications, laboratory systems, and plant operating systems.
• Comfortable handling chemicals and working in laboratory, pilot plant, and manufacturing environments.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators and other safety equipment as necessary.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb stairs, bend, kneel, reach, push, pull, lift up to 55 pounds, and safely perform physical job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Willingness to work overtime, weekends, holidays, and respond to occasional call-in requirements when business needs dictate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Engineering Technology, Physics, Biology, Material Science, or a related technical discipline.
• Two or more years of experience in a laboratory, pilot plant, manufacturing, or industrial environment.
• Experience operating pilot plant or semiworks equipment.
• Experience with laboratory testing equipment, analytical instruments, and data collection systems.
• Working knowledge of chemical processes, material testing, or product development environments.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience supporting research, development, or scale-up activities.

Why Join Arclin?

At Arclin, you'll play a hands-on role in developing innovative technologies and supporting the advancement of products used across a wide range of industries. This position offers the opportunity to work alongside scientists, engineers, and technical professionals while gaining exposure to research, pilot operations, manufacturing processes, and new product development.