Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Mankato, MN (NOW HIRING)

Job Description:
The Senior Chemical and Instrumental Scientist bridges the gap between R&D, production, and quality control by assisting with new product development, raw material validation, and quality control initiatives. The Senior Chemical and Instrumental Scientist owns, maintains, and runs Cambria's suite of analytical equipment and will support innovation goals by expanding our materials research and characterization capabilities.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Instrument Mastery & Maintenance:

• Operate, calibrate, and maintain high-value analytical instrumentation such as XRD, XRF, and FTIR.
• Perform routine "deep-clean" protocols and preventative maintenance to ensure uptime and data integrity.
• Troubleshoot equipment errors/issues and coordinate with vendors for specialized repairs.

Material Analysis & Testing:

• Expand the capabilities of characterizing chemicals, pigments, and mineral fillers to ensure they meet strict incoming raw material specifications.
• Investigate the structure-property relationships of existing and new polymers and chemicals to drive efficiency and innovation.
• Perform crystal structure analysis via XRD to support the needs of incoming raw material testing and R&D efforts.
• Perform elemental analysis via XRF to verify chemical compositions and detect trace impurities.
• Execute long-term stability studies using accelerated weathering protocols to predict the lifespan and colorfastness of finished goods.

Product Investigation & Benchmarking:

• Conduct investigations into "out-of-spec" batches to identify root causes of failure.
• Evaluate the impact of different fabrication techniques on the structural and aesthetic properties of the finished product.

Reporting & Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Synthesize complex analytical data into clear, actionable reports for the QC Lab Manager.
• Collaborate with R&D to validate new formulations, raw materials, and test methods.
• Provide technical data to Application Engineers to assist with client-side performance queries.
• Partner with Process Technology teams to translate lab findings into scalable manufacturing improvements.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Experience with various analytical equipment (i.e. XRD, XRF, FTIR, rheometer, GCMS)
• Demonstrated problem-solving capabilities
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Strong computer and data analysis skills
• Statistics
• Established project management skills and is results-oriented

Other Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD Material Science, Polymer Chemistry or related engineering or scientific discipline.
• Experience with Continuous Improvement principles (lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, etc.).
• ASQ Certification in Quality Engineering and/or Auditing is a plus.

Minimum Requirements:
Education: Master's degree in Material Science, Polymer Chemistry, or a related engineering or scientific discipline.
Experience: 1-2 years preferred
Systems: N/A
Additional Requirements:
Managerial Requirements: N/A
Physical Requirements:

• Stand on feet for up to 8-hour shift, with required breaks
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs. occasionally & up to 20 pounds frequently (office supplies, packages, samples).
• Able to push up to 100 lbs. occasionally
• May need to bend, reach, walk, or stoop occasionally.
• Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as steel toed boots, hearing protection and a respirator
• Participate in daily stretch and flex exercises
• Work in a non-climate controlled environment

Travel Requirements: May be required to travel between local Cambria locations.
Cambria's starting salary for this position is $110,000 - $140,000. Pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the target for new hires for the position. Individual pay is determined by several factors, including work location, job-related experience, and relevant education and/or training.
Cambria offers a competitive benefits package that encompasses Health and Dental Insurance, Paid Time Off, 7 paid Holidays , 401(k) plus matching, Discretionary Profit Sharing, Flexible Spending Account; Life, Supplemental Life, and Disability Insurance; Referral Program, Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Assistance Program, Employee Discount and Professional Development Assistance.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
At Cambria, dedication to philanthropy and our people is at the heart of who we are. We strive to make a meaningful difference in the world every day by prioritizing employee well-being and fostering inclusivity and empowerment. Under the banner of CambriaCares, our philanthropic endeavors show our commitment to our people and our community to uplift kids, support education, and contribute to a sustainable future.
For additional company information, please visit www.CambriaUSA.com
An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background verification check, subject to applicable laws and regulations. The results will be reviewed based on the individual's record, and the specific duties and requirements of the job.