R&D Laboratory Technician - Fire Safety
Job Description
The UL Solutions Research and Development team is seeking a driven and team-oriented laboratory technician to work with us on research and testing of emerging fire and explosion safety problems. Many of these problems will focus on the energy and fire protection industries, including lithium-ion battery thermal runaway and fires in the built environment. This role will focus on laboratory testing, logistics, and the design, realization and commissioning of novel test programs, fixtures and apparatus. Day-to-day projects will involve working with R&D engineers and senior lab staff to design and execute custom test programs and services for internal and external clients. Successful candidate will be creative, curious, adaptable to a fast-paced and multi-disciplined environment and able to work collaboratively with a team of other technicians, engineers and scientists to solve complex problems.
Responsibilities
- Provides technical support in the design and construction of test fixtures, test rooms or systems and other testing programs.
- Designs, adapts and builds test setups and equipment for new test situations, based on analysis of test specifications and discussions with engineers.
- Examines test samples and interprets measuring instruments, blueprints, schematics, wiring diagrams, and operational instructions.
- Develops test procedures based on laboratory procedures, standards and safety policies.
- Engages in firefighting and fire extinguishing activities in live fire tests under supervision of more senior technician staff.
- Sets and operates data acquisition suites for custom test scenarios.
- Assists in scheduling, assigning, reviewing and coordinating workflow to assure proper utilization of laboratory time and space.
- Can operate with minimal supervision within defined limits of responsibility.
- Attends meetings and uses multiple forms of communication, as needed, to complete tasks, projects, and initiatives
- Prepares purchase and material requisitions.
- Takes stewardship over laboratory spaces to ensure they remain clean, organized, operational, and up-to-date.
- Integrates continuous improvement concepts and techniques into all aspects of the job.
Job Requirements
- Highschool diploma or GED required
- At least 2-year university degree in engineering or a related discipline is preferred
- Prior experience in hands-on laboratory work and mechanical design/assembly work is required
- Qualifications to operate a forklift, boom lift, and scissor lift.
- Willingness to be trained in and to engage in active firefighting in full turn-out gear. This requires the ability to maintain composure and make clear and rapid decisions in an Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) fire environment.
- Ability to obtain self-container breathing apparatus (SCBA) certification. Existing certification is preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining high quality and exceptional customer service.
- Demonstrated hands-on experience using and safely operating a variety of hand tools and power tools.
- Highly effective communication skills and ability to interact with customers
- Demonstrated project experience involving creative problem solving.
- Desire to work in a team-oriented environment
