Entry Level Research And Development Jobs Near Me

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DuPont Cyrel Flexographic Solutions is seeking an entry-level Laboratory Technician to join our Applications and R&D team at the DuPont Experimental Station in Wilmington, DE. This opportunity is ideal for high school graduates with vocational-technical education, hands-on training, or an interest in skilled technical work who want to begin building a career in research and development.

The Cyrel business is a leader in high-quality flexographic printing consumables and solutions serving food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and industrial packaging markets. We are at the forefront of printing technology designed to improve efficiency, sustainability, and print quality across the packaging industry.

This position sits within our Research & Development (R&D) organization and works day-to-day with a local team of applications specialists, scientists, and engineers, while also connecting into a global R&D team. The role is based in our state-of-the-art Wilmington laboratories, which are equipped with advanced tools for plate processing, print process optimization, plate testing, and application studies. The successful candidate will report to a Technical Leader within the Cyrel Flexographic Solutions business.

This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys hands-on work, likes learning by doing, and wants to develop practical technical skills while working alongside experienced scientists, engineers, and applications specialists in a collaborative R&D lab environment.

No prior flexographic printing experience is required. DuPont will provide on-the-job training to teach the equipment, lab techniques, safety practices, and processes needed to be successful. This role is designed as an entry point for motivated learners who want to grow their skills, gain real-world R&D experience, and develop toward a long-term technical career.

What You'll Do (Key Responsibilities)

• Work hands-on in the lab performing plate processing, print trials, and analytical testing on flexographic printing plates.

• Set up, operate, clean, and perform routine maintenance on plate processing equipment, print presses, and analytical instruments.

• Prepare samples, run experiments under the direction of scientists and applications specialists, and accurately record observations and data.

• Support design of experiments (DOEs) by executing test conditions, collecting measurements, and helping summarize results.

• Evaluate new and prototype plate processing equipment and share practical, real-world feedback with the R&D team.

• Keep the lab organized, stocked, and audit-ready; maintain accurate logbooks, electronic records, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

• Actively participate in DuPont's safety programs - follow safe work practices, complete required training, and speak up on safety concerns.

• Partner with team members across R&D, Applications, Manufacturing, and Technical Service to move projects forward.

• Continuously learn new techniques, equipment, and workflows - and share what you learn with the team.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; vocational-technical education, skilled-trades coursework, technical training, or related hands-on experience is strongly encouraged.

• Interest in an entry-level technical role where you can learn on the job, build confidence with lab equipment, and develop career-ready R&D skills.

• Enjoys hands-on work and is comfortable using tools, equipment, materials, and step-by-step procedures in a lab or technical setting.

• Attention to detail with the ability to follow written procedures accurately

• Good communication skills and a team-oriented mindset - willing to ask questions, share observations, and help teammates.

• Basic computer skills (email, data entry, and comfort learning new software applications).

• Commitment to working safely and consistently upholding DuPont safety standards.

• Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to ~40 lbs, and perform routine physical lab tasks with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred (Nice to Have, Not Required)

• Prior experience in a laboratory, manufacturing, printing, or skilled-trades environment.

• Familiarity with basic measurement tools (e.g. calipers, micrometers, microscopes, cameras, scales).

• Exposure to flexographic printing, graphic arts, coatings, polymers, or related packaging technologies.

• Basic experience with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and other computer systems.

What We Offer

• Paid, hands-on training on Cyrel plate processing, printing equipment, testing methods, and safe lab practices - no prior flexographic experience required.

• A strong entry point for high school graduates and early-career candidates who want to turn vo-tech training, mechanical aptitude, or hands-on curiosity into a long-term technical career at DuPont.

• Mentorship from scientists, engineers, and applications specialists at one of DuPont's flagship R&D sites.

• A collaborative, safety-first culture with exposure to cutting-edge printing and packaging technology.

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