(Sr.) Staff Technician Job at Arkema Inc in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania

Job Description:

The Senior Staff Technician reports to a Research Scientist in the Fluoropolymers Synthesis Group at the King of Prussia Research Center.

Job Dimensions

The person in this position will be responsible for supporting key programs for the synthesis of new polyvinylidenefluoride (PVDF) products by conducting emulsion polymerization reactions of fluorinated monomers on the lab scale using high pressure semi-batch reactors. Work priorities and supervision will come from the Research Scientist leading the program. The person will plan and safely conduct laboratory polymerizations, set up new equipment, perform data analysis, maintain a well-organized research notebook and contribute to reports for internal distribution.

Key Activities and Responsibilities

• Set up and conduct polymerization reactions in a safe manner consistent with SOP.


• Maintain cleanliness of the work area and manage storage of materials and samples.


• Perform polymer characterization, data analysis and prepare reports in support of R&D activities.


• With Scientist supervision, plan and execute experimental programs.


• Submit samples for analytical testing, manage getting timely response. Summarize results for reports and file documents in appropriate database.


• Arrange and coordinate outside testing required from commercial labs as needed for capabilities not available within Arkema.


• Assist with technical training of new employees and students.


• Perform a range of general support tasks including shipping of products or samples, preparing display boards for presentations, and purchasing of materials, supplies and unit modification.


• Help to identify product improvement opportunities for Arkema Fluoropolymers.


• Prepare work plans, PHA's and support all Safety related activities

Context and Environment

With the manufacture of the KYNAR family of products, Arkema is the world leader in polyvinylidenefluoride (PVDF) polymers. Tasks and responsibilities (including day-to-day priorities) will be assigned by a Fluoropolymer Synthesis Research Scientist. Management of multiple priorities and sometimes changing priorities is a challenge that will require high flexibility and strong organizational skills.

Accountabilities

• Actively promotes safe behavior in the workgroup and takes responsibility for personal safe lab operations


• Maintains clean, orderly and safe working environment


• Maintains documentation and equipment including testing equipment, process equipment, lab notebooks, electronic databases and organized files


• Plans and executes experimental work programs, analyzes data and documents results in reports, tables and databases


• Communicates project progress at the Team level both in writing and verbally


• Learns and develops polymerization expertise to support R&D overall objectives.

Required Education/Qualifications /Work Experience

• High School Diploma with 5+ years of applicable experience in a lab technical environment or Bachelor's degree in a relevant technical discipline.


• Experience with emulsion polymerization reactions is a plus


• Strong analytical/laboratory and mechanical skills, precision, attention to detail, and record keeping.


• Communicates effectively both verbally and in writing


• Proficient with computer software applications and data analysis (word, excel, etc.).


• Excellent organizational skills, strong interpersonal skills, independent problem solver.


• Hands on orientation to conduct experiments, trouble shoot and maintain equipment


• Experience with high pressure synthesis equipment desirable

Building on its unique set of expertise in materials science, Arkema offers a portfolio of first-class technologies to address ever-growing demand for new and sustainable materials. With the ambition to become in 2024 a pure player in Specialty Materials, the Group is structured into three complementary, resilient and highly innovative segments dedicated to Specialty Materials - Adhesive Solutions, Advanced Materials, and Coating Solutions - accounting for some 80% of Group sales, and a well-positioned and competitive Intermediates segment. Arkema offers cutting-edge technological solutions to meet the challenges of, among other things, new energies, access to water, recycling, urbanization and mobility, and fosters a permanent dialogue with all its stakeholders. The Group reported sales of 8.7 billion ($9.7 billion) in 2019, and operates in 55 countries with 20,500 employees worldwide.

Arkema Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Arkema Inc. complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence.