Research Technician - Bonded Abrasives, R&D

About the Role

Saint-Gobain Innovation Hub North America is looking for a hands-on Research Technician to support critical R&D and manufacturing initiatives within our Bonded Abrasives team. This role is essential to maintaining execution of key development programs and customer commitments by providing reliable technical support across laboratory and plant environments.

• Prepare and process material samples, including mixing, forming, and testing of abrasive systems
• Support experimental work for new product development, process optimization, and scale-up activities
• Coordinate with engineers and scientists to execute trials and ensure accurate data collection
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory and pilot-scale equipment
• Document experimental results and maintain organized, high-quality lab records
• Assist with manufacturing trials and plant support activities (Worcester site)

Requirements

We are looking for candidates who are comfortable working in a hands-on, equipment-focused environment and can follow procedures while maintaining high attention to detail.

• High school diploma or equivalent with 1-5 years of relevant experience, or Associate degree in a technical field
• Hands-on experience in materials processing, laboratory work, or manufacturing environments
• Ability to operate and work safely with laboratory or mechanical equipment
• Strong attention to detail in data collection and documentation
• Comfortable following procedures and instructions with consistency
• Basic computer skills (Excel, Word)
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced R&D environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with mixing, grinding, pressing, or materials characterization
• Experience supporting R&D or pilot scale operations
• Familiarity with laboratory documentation practices (lab notebooks, electronic systems)
• Experience working in both lab and plant environments

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to work in both lab and manufacturing settings
• Ability to lift up to ~50 lbs and perform routine physical tasks
• Travel to local manufacturing facilities (<5%) to support plant trials
• Valid driver's license required for travel to manufacturing sites

Pay

The national pay range for this position is $53,500 to $82,500 per year. Base pay may vary depending on geographic region, internal equity, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition to base salary, this position is eligible for an annual bonus with a targeted amount of 7% of base salary based on company and individual performance measures. The Total Target Cash range (base pay and annual bonus) for this position is $57,245 to $88,275.

Benefits

Employees have the flexibility to choose the benefits that best fit their individual needs.

Health and Wellbeing

• Medical, Prescription Drug, Vision, and Dental Insurance
• Healthcare Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account options
• LiveWell Wellness Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Time Off and Paid Parental Leave

Retirement and Protection

• 401(k) with Company Match, Retirement Accumulation Plan (RAP), Cash Balance Pension Plan
• Company-provided Life Insurance, AD&D, Short-Term Disability
• Voluntary employee and dependent life insurance, Long-Term Disability, Critical Illness, and Accident Insurance

Additional Benefits

• Commuter Benefits
• Group Legal
• Identity Theft Protection
• Auto and Home Insurance
• Pet Insurance and Discounts
• Back-up Child & Elder Care
• PerkSpot Employee Discount Program

About Us

Saint-Gobain Innovation Hub North America is one of Saint-Gobain's largest industrial research laboratories. The center is home to more than 400 employees working at the leading edge of innovation on multidisciplinary industrial research, preparing the future by designing tomorrow's products and processes across an amazing variety of markets and technical disciplines. Since 1985, SGR North America has been supporting existing businesses, developing future businesses, and nurturing talent.

Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures, and distributes materials and solutions which are key ingredients in the wellbeing of each of us and the future of all. They can be found everywhere in our living places and our daily life: in buildings, transportation, infrastructure, and in many industrial applications. They provide comfort, performance, and safety while addressing the challenges of sustainable construction, resource efficiency, and climate change.

The Bonded Abrasives R&D team develops advanced abrasive products used across a wide range of industrial applications. Based in Northborough, MA, this team works closely with manufacturing sites and global partners to bring new technologies from concept to commercialization. The role offers exposure to both laboratory innovation and real-world production environments, with opportunities to contribute directly to high-impact projects.