Innovation Lab Jobs Near Me

Be Part of a Bold New Chapter in Composites Industry, join ALTA Performance Materials

ALTA Performance Materials is the global leader in a broad range of general-purpose and high-performance grades of unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins, gelcoats and low-profile additives for the plastics industry. ALTA Performance Materials are used in several global markets: including building materials; corrosion-resistant fiber reinforced plastic; recreation; transportation; and wind energy. The business has operations in multiple locations in the US, Europe, Brazil, India and China.

For decades, we've set the standard for excellence and reliability, elevating the performance in composites. Today, we're writing the next chapter-an independent, future-focused company driven by innovation and a passion for pushing boundaries. Our strength lies in our people: experts and innovators who bring energy and purpose to everything we do. With a portfolio of premium brands and a culture built on trust, proactivity and partnership, we're shaping the future of composites materials. Join us and help define what's next.

Position Summary:

The Lab Technician plays a hands-on role within the Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) team, supporting day-to-day testing, sample preparation, and production activities that keep Technical Service, Sales, and Manufacturing moving. This role blends routine lab work with longer-term project support, requiring someone who is comfortable switching between fast-turnaround requests and more involved R&D tasks. Success in this position depends on strong attention to detail, safe handling of materials and equipment, and close coordination with scientists, technicians, and cross-functional partners.

Key Responsibilities:

The responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Complete lab tasks promptly to support Technical Service, Sales, and Manufacturing on product performance and quality requests
• Communicate progress and results to Technical Service to keep work requests on track
• Partner with scientists on longer-term R&D projects
• Weigh, measure, and mix solid and liquid raw materials to prepare lab batches (typically 1 to 5 gallons)
• Prepare customer samples ranging from 5-gallon quantities to two-drum batches
• Operate SMC production equipment to manufacture Sheet Molding Compound
• Produce test plaques using compression molding equipment
• Submit samples to the Analytical Laboratory for testing
• Perform routine lab testing, including viscosity, surface appearance, cure and flow, and density measurements
• Keep the lab clean, organized, and safe
• Follow company safety policies, quality standards, and lab procedures

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Previous experience in a lab, manufacturing, chemical, or composites environment preferred
• Industrial or manufacturing lab experience is a plus
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to safely operate lab and processing equipment
• Self-motivated, organized, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced setting
• Strong attention to detail
• Effective verbal and written communication
• Comfortable collaborating with scientists, technicians, Technical Service, and Manufacturing
• Quick to learn new processes, equipment, and testing methods
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and safely handle lab materials and equipment
• Commitment to safety and established lab procedures

ALTA Performance Materialsis an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and high-performing workplace for all employees. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable local law. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit and business needs.