Raw Material Lab Analyst

Materials Laboratory Analyst – Rubber & Materials R&D

Location: Amherst, NYEmployment Type: Full-TimeSalary: $62,000–$67,000 annually, based on experience

About the Opportunity

Are you a recent or early-career graduate in Chemistry, Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field looking for hands-on laboratory experience?

Join SRI America, part of the global Sumitomo Rubber Industries organization, and become part of a team supporting the research, development, and testing of materials used in tire technology.

As a Materials Laboratory Analyst, you will work alongside engineers and laboratory professionals to analyze, test, and characterize rubber compounds and raw materials. This is a hands-on opportunity to apply your scientific knowledge to real-world materials and product development while gaining experience with laboratory instrumentation, rubber processing, chemical analysis, and materials testing.

What You'll Do

• Conduct chemical analysis and characterization of rubber compounds and raw materials.
• Prepare and test rubber and tire samples for research, development, and benchmarking activities.
• Perform laboratory-scale mixing of rubber compounds using a Banbury mixer.
• Accurately weigh and prepare polymers, fillers, chemicals, oils, curatives, and other raw materials.
• Operate analytical instruments and physical testing equipment.
• Perform equipment checks, calibration, troubleshooting, and basic maintenance.
• Record, review, analyze, and report laboratory test results.
• Maintain accurate laboratory data using databases, spreadsheets, and laboratory management systems.
• Follow established laboratory procedures and safety requirements.
• Properly label, store, handle, and dispose of chemicals and laboratory materials.
• Collaborate with engineers and laboratory team members to support research and development projects.

What We're Looking For

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, Materials/Polymer Science, or a related field; OR an associate's degree in a related field with applicable laboratory experience.
• Basic understanding of chemistry and laboratory practices.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to document and communicate technical information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Ability to follow laboratory procedures and safety requirements.
• Ability to lift approximately 25–30 lbs.

Preferred:

• Laboratory, research, internship, or co-op experience.
• Experience with polymers, rubber, plastics, or other materials.
• Experience operating laboratory or analytical equipment.
• Experience with chemical testing or physical materials testing.
• Mechanical aptitude and an interest in how laboratory equipment operates.
• 1–3 years of applicable laboratory experience.

Recent graduates are encouraged to apply.

Why Join SRIA?

At SRIA, you'll have the opportunity to build your technical career while working with a global organization in the tire, rubber, and materials technology industry.

You'll gain hands-on experience in:

Materials & Polymer ScienceLaboratory Analysis & TestingRubber Processing & CompoundingTire Research & DevelopmentData Analysis & Technical ReportingCross-Functional Engineering Collaboration

This position offers an excellent opportunity for someone early in their career who wants to take what they've learned in the classroom and apply it to real-world product and materials development.