PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT TEST TECHNICIAN

Job Summary:

The Product Development Test Technician is responsible for executing laboratory testing and preparing lab-scale samples to support research, new product development, product improvement, raw material qualification, process validation, troubleshooting, and cost-reduction initiatives. Working under the direction of the Product Development Test Engineer and in collaboration with Product Development, Quality, and Operations, the Technician plans and prioritizes assigned testing, operates and maintains analytical and physical test equipment, follows established methods and protocols, analyzes and documents results, and communicates findings to project stakeholders. The Technician is expected to maintain accurate and traceable data, identify unusual or nonconforming results, support development of application-relevant test methods, and ensure laboratory activities comply with safety, quality, regulatory, and data-integrity requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide testing expertise to support research, innovation, new product development, and product improvements, utilizing analytical techniques such as microscopy, FTIR, rheology, DSC, TGA, as well as standard tape testing (peel, shear, and tack across various substrates).
• Prepare lab-scale adhesive tape samples by coating liquid adhesives - either vendor-supplied or formulated/modified by the PD engineer - onto a release liner, followed by drying, laminating with the selected backing, and conditioning for evaluation.
• Develop and execute test methods that replicate real-world application and end-use conditions, ensuring laboratory results correlate to customer performance and field expectations.
• Plan, prioritize, and execute testing activities for assigned projects, including interpretation of protocols, data analysis, and communication of results to cross-functional teams.
• Conduct testing to support root cause analysis related to raw materials, product quality, and process variability, partnering with Product Development, Quality, and Operations to resolve technical challenges.
• Ensure all testing systems, protocols, and documentation meet applicable industry standards (ISO 9001, IATF 16949, ISO 13485), regulatory requirements, and internal policies, with a strong focus on data integrity, accuracy, and traceability.
• Prepare clear, concise technical reports and summaries to support decision-making and business objectives.
• Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment to ensure reliable, repeatable test results and overall lab readiness.
• Support quality, continuous improvement, and cost reduction initiatives by identifying opportunities to enhance testing methods, reduce variability, and improve lab efficiency; track and report key metrics as applicable.
• Maintain ownership of testing protocols and associated documentation for products supported out of Franklin, KY, and provide broader company support as needed.
• Ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals in compliance with SDS, OSHA, environmental, and company policies; actively promote a safe work environment.
• Contribute to operational excellence initiatives and overall lab performance goals.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or GED required; Associate degree or technical certification in laboratory science, chemistry, materials science, quality, manufacturing technology, or a related technical discipline preferred.
• 1–2 years of related laboratory, analytical testing, quality, product development, or manufacturing experience preferred.
• Hands-on experience operating laboratory test equipment and following written test methods, specifications, protocols, and standard operating procedures preferred.
• Experience with pressure-sensitive adhesive or materials testing, including peel, shear, tack, coating weight, thickness, microscopy, FTIR, rheology, DSC, or TGA, is highly desirable.
• Ability to prepare lab-scale adhesive tape samples, including coating, drying, laminating, conditioning, cutting, and labeling test specimens, is preferred.
• Ability to collect, organize, analyze, and accurately document technical data; recognize unusual or nonconforming results; and escalate concerns for technical review.
• Basic understanding of calibration, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, measurement-system control, and good laboratory practices.
• Familiarity with ASTM and PSTC test methods and ISO 9001, IATF 16949, ISO 13485, or similar quality-management systems preferred.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, organizational, and computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word; experience with PowerPoint, D365, Minitab, laboratory information systems, or statistical software is a plus.
• Demonstrated commitment to laboratory safety and chemical-handling practices, including compliance with SDS, OSHA, environmental, and company requirements.
• Ability to manage multiple test requests, prioritize work, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing project and customer needs.
• Ability to communicate test methods, observations, results, and data limitations clearly to Product Development, Quality, Operations, and other cross-functional stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently within established procedures while recognizing when technical, quality, safety, or data-integrity issues require escalation.
• Ability to travel and work flexible hours as needed to support testing, trials, and business requirements.