Laboratory Technician I

Responsibilities

• Operate polymer processing equipment, including pelletizing, blown film, cast film, and injection molding systems
• Process, densify, and granulate recycled plastics and other materials for testing and recyclability assessments
• Conduct experiments according to established protocols and document observations, processing conditions, and results
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and technical records
• Perform preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and refurbishment of laboratory and pilot-scale equipment
• Assist with fabrication and welding projects to support equipment and facility needs
• Coordinate the pickup, transport, inventory, and movement of materials between customer sites and university facilities
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and industry partners to support ongoing research activities

Requirements

• One year of related laboratory experience, or a combination of related experience and undergraduate courses in physical or natural sciences equivalent to one year of full-time employment
• Valid U.S. Driver's License

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a laboratory, manufacturing, pilot plant, or research environment
• Experience maintaining equipment logs, inventory records, or technical documentation
• Familiarity with recycling, polymers, plastics processing, or packaging materials
• Experience performing preventative maintenance and equipment repair
• Welding and metal fabrication experience

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time
• Onsite childcare in Ames, Iowa
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts and wellbeing programs

About the Company

Iowa State University is a land-grant institution dedicated to education, research, extension, and outreach. The Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition supports innovative research through the Polymer and Food Protection Consortium (PFPC), focusing on sustainability, recycling technologies, and advanced materials.