Laboratory Technician I

Title: Laboratory Technician I

Location: LaPorte, TX

Who we are:

Voted one of the Nation's Best and Brightest Companies to Work for, Kuraray America, Inc. (KAI) is a global leader in specialty chemical, fiber, and resin production. With top-of-the-line research and production facilities and a vast network of supplies from around the world, Kuraray leads the industry in specialty dental, fiber, resin, and elastomer products. Kuraray America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kuraray Company, Ltd. Based in Tokyo, Japan. Kuraray has operations in 32 countries and employs more than 12,000 employees, including over 800 in the United States.

Why Kuraray:

Kuraray is building a better tomorrow, today. Our team members are dedicated to expanding our business with committed professionals who share essential values such as integrity, excellence, teamwork, and accountability.

As a part of Kuraray America, Inc., our team shares the advantages of working for the leader in specialty chemicals, resins, and fibers. Our international presence and resources allow us to be a world-leading innovator in the industries we service. Yet, despite our size, our people are more than just a number. As a new team member, you can expect to earn responsibility quickly. Our commitment to our people is visible in our comprehensive benefits package. As a Kuraray team member, you will have the opportunity to enjoy competitive salaries and benefits, incentive opportunities, and an excellent work environment.

Position Summary:

The Laboratory Technician I is an entry-level laboratory position responsible for performing routine testing and analysis of VAM and Elvanol products under the guidance of experienced laboratory personnel. This role supports quality control, process monitoring, and reporting activities while developing proficiency in laboratory methods, instrumentation, and safety procedures.

Responsibilities:

- Perform routine VAM and Elvanol testing according to established laboratory procedures.

- Assist with sample preparation, data collection, and documentation.

- Maintain laboratory notebooks, records, and electronic data systems.

- Follow all laboratory safety, environmental, and quality requirements.

- Calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment as directed.

- Report test results to laboratory leadership in a timely manner.

- Participate in laboratory housekeeping and organization efforts.

- Learn laboratory analytical methods and testing procedures.

- Support continuous improvement activities within the laboratory.

Minimum Qualifications:

- High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate degree in Chemistry, Chemical Technology, or related field preferred.

- Less than one (1) year of experience performing VAM and Elvanol analysis.

- Basic understanding of laboratory practices and safety requirements.

- Ability to learn laboratory instrumentation and testing techniques.

- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills

Competencies :

- Customer Focus

Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions.

- Business Insight

Applying knowledge of business and the marketplace to advance the organization's goals.

- Cultivates Innovation

Creating new and better ways for the organization to be successful.

- Action Oriented

Taking on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.

- Ensures Accountability

Holding self and others accountable to meet commitments.

- Drives Results

Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstance

- Collaborates

Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.

- Values Difference

Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization

- Communicates Effectively

Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.

- Courage

Stepping up to address difficult issues, saying what needs to be said.

- Instills Trust

Gaining the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity.

- Situational Adaptability

Adapting approach and demeanor in real time to match the shifting demands of different situations.

We offer a competitive compensation package that includes base pay and an annual incentive. This program is designed to reward individual performance and align overall rewards with corporate and team performance.

Our employees benefit from a robust healthcare package that includes wellness reimbursements, along with generous perks such as three weeks of paid time off, ten company holidays, paid parental leave, education reimbursement, and a matching 401k plan, among other offerings.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S.

Learn more at kuraray.us.com/careers/

Kuraray America, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity/disability/protected veteran status