0781 Technician - Indirect

Position Summary

The Laboratory Technician I supports coloration, testing, and chemical development activities for automotive textile applications, with a specific focus on polyester-based woven and warp knit materials. This entry-level role assists in laboratory dyeing, finishing chemical evaluation, and analytical testing to ensure materials meet stringent automotive performance, durability, and color standards.

Key Responsibilities

Polyester Coloration & Dyeing

- Assist in laboratory dyeing of polyester textiles using disperse dyes for both woven and warp knit structures. - Prepare dye baths, chemical auxiliaries, and recipes utilizing the latest technologies. - Conduct shade development and color matching using spectrophotometers and visual evaluation under controlled lighting. - Support optimization of dyeing parameters (temperature profiles, carriers, dispersing agents, pH control). - Maintain detailed records of dye formulations, process conditions, and outcomes.

Chemical Development & Finishing

- Support development and evaluation of chemical finishes for automotive textiles, including: - UV resistance and lightfastness enhancers - Stain resistance and soil release treatments - Flame retardant chemistries - Antimicrobial and odor-control finishes - Assist in preparing and applying finishing formulations via laboratory methods. - Participate in screening new chemical systems for compatibility with polyester substrates. - Document and compare performance of various chemical treatments.

Analytical Testing & Validation

- Perform standardized textile testing aligned with automotive requirements, including: - FT-IR - DSC - TLC - Conduct basic chemical testing such as pH, extractables, and finish add-on levels. - Ability to analyze results to understand meaning and assist in the development of next steps. - Record, analyze, and report test data with accuracy and consistency.

Data Management & Reporting

- Document all laboratory work in electronic systems or laboratory notebooks. - Assist in compiling technical reports for internal teams and customers. - Support statistical analysis of test results and trend tracking.

Continuous Improvement & Collaboration

- Assist in troubleshooting dyeing inconsistencies specific to polyester (e.g., migration, uneven dye uptake). - Support initiatives to improve reproducibility between lab and production environments. - Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and quality teams on material and process improvements. - Stay informed on emerging technologies in polyester dyeing and automotive textile chemistry.

Qualifications

Education

- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in: - Textile Engineering or Textile Technology - Chemistry or Polymer Chemistry

Experience

- 0–2 years of relevant experience (internships or co-ops preferred), particularly in: - Textile dyeing or finishing - Polymer or synthetic fiber processing - Laboratory testing environments

Technical Knowledge & Skills

- Basic understanding of polyester fiber properties and disperse dye chemistry (preferred). - Familiarity with woven and warp knit fabric structures. - Exposure to textile finishing processes and chemical treatments is a plus. - Understanding of laboratory safety practices and chemical handling. - Ability to follow detailed technical procedures with precision. - Strong attention to detail in data collection and reporting. - Proficiency with Microsoft Excel or similar data tools.