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Dye Laboratory Technician I

Position Summary

The Laboratory Technician I supports coloration, testing, and chemical development activities for automotive textile applications, with a specific focus on polyester-based woven and warp knit materials. This entry-level role assists in laboratory dyeing, finishing chemical evaluation, and analytical testing to ensure materials meet stringent automotive performance, durability, and color standards.

Key Responsibilities

Polyester Coloration & Dyeing

• Assist in laboratory dyeing of polyester textiles using disperse dyes for both woven and warp knit structures.
• Prepare dye baths, chemical auxiliaries, and recipes utilizing the latest technologies.
• Conduct shade development and color matching using spectrophotometers and visual evaluation under controlled lighting.
• Support optimization of dyeing parameters (temperature profiles, carriers, dispersing agents, pH control).
• Maintain detailed records of dye formulations, process conditions, and outcomes.

Chemical Development & Finishing

• Support development and evaluation of chemical finishes for automotive textiles, including:
• UV resistance and lightfastness enhancers
• Stain resistance and soil release treatments
• Flame retardant chemistries
• Antimicrobial and odor-control finishes
• Assist in preparing and applying finishing formulations via laboratory methods.
• Participate in screening new chemical systems for compatibility with polyester substrates.
• Document and compare performance of various chemical treatments.

Analytical Testing & Validation

• Perform standardized textile testing aligned with automotive requirements, including:
• FT-IR
• DSC
• TLC
• Conduct basic chemical testing such as pH, extractables, and finish add-on levels.
• Ability to analyze results to understand meaning and assist in the development of next steps.
• Record, analyze, and report test data with accuracy and consistency.

Data Management & Reporting

• Document all laboratory work in electronic systems or laboratory notebooks.
• Assist in compiling technical reports for internal teams and customers.
• Support statistical analysis of test results and trend tracking.

Continuous Improvement & Collaboration

• Assist in troubleshooting dyeing inconsistencies specific to polyester (e.g., migration, uneven dye uptake).
• Support initiatives to improve reproducibility between lab and production environments.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and quality teams on material and process improvements.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies in polyester dyeing and automotive textile chemistry.

Qualifications

Education

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in:
• Textile Engineering or Textile Technology
• Chemistry or Polymer Chemistry

Experience

• 0-2 years of relevant experience (internships or co-ops preferred), particularly in:
• Textile dyeing or finishing
• Polymer or synthetic fiber processing
• Laboratory testing environments

Technical Knowledge & Skills

• Basic understanding of polyester fiber properties and disperse dye chemistry (preferred).
• Familiarity with woven and warp knit fabric structures.
• Exposure to textile finishing processes and chemical treatments is a plus.
• Understanding of laboratory safety practices and chemical handling.
• Ability to follow detailed technical procedures with precision.
• Strong attention to detail in data collection and reporting.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel or similar data tools.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to work in a laboratory with heat-generating equipment and chemical exposure (with PPE).
• Standing, lifting light materials, and handling wet textiles and chemicals.
• Compliance with all personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.

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