R&D Lab Technician

R&D Lab Technician

Burlington, WI

Description

Join our team! An industry leader since 1912, Lavelle Industries has a unique opportunity for a Lab Technician to join our Burlington, WI R&D team. This position plays a key role in both new product development and continuous improvement initiatives by supporting product testing, validation, and laboratory operations. The Lab Technician will work cross-functionally with R&D, Operations, and Quality teams to develop test methods, execute testing, analyze results, and ensure laboratory equipment and processes support Lavelle's commitment to quality and innovation.

Responsibilities

In this position, the candidate will:

• Work with R&D, Operations, Quality, and other departments to develop test procedures, perform testing, and communicate results.
• Conduct functional and performance testing on products and components involving water pressure, flow, force, torque, sound, endurance, and other mechanical characteristics.
• Execute testing in accordance with industry standards, customer specifications, and internal requirements.
• Design, develop, and monitor testing plans and procedures to support customer and business needs.
• Collect, summarize, and analyze data to prepare reports, charts, and technical documentation.
• Evaluate competitor products and assist with benchmarking activities.
• Support new product development through product qualification and validation testing.
• Troubleshoot products and process concerns through testing and root cause investigation.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, calibration schedules, and overall lab organization.
• Ensure a safe, efficient, and well-maintained laboratory environment.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on product quality, manufacturing efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Will learn to:

• Develop advanced testing methods for plumbing, water control, rubber, and plastic products.
• Design and improve test fixtures and laboratory equipment.
• Apply structured problem-solving techniques to product and process challenges.
• Utilize data analysis to support engineering and operational decision-making.
• Gain exposure to rubber compounding, plastics processing, molding operations, and product development activities.
• Work within Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.

Requirements

The successful candidate will have a blend of experience for this position:

• Associate degree in Mechanical Technology, Industrial Technology, Materials Science, Plastics, Rubber Technology, or a related technical field; or equivalent hands-on experience.
• 0-5 years of experience in a laboratory, testing, manufacturing, product development, or related technical environment.
• Mechanical aptitude and a strong interest in hands-on testing and troubleshooting.
• Experience with standard work procedures and test setup is preferred.
• Familiarity with durability, vibration, flow, sound, pressure, or endurance testing is a plus.
• Ability to collect, organize, and analyze data with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a continuous improvement mindset.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.

Why Lavelle?

Lavelle Industries is a woman-owned business with over 100 years of manufacturing excellence. We are committed to innovation, customer focus, employee engagement, Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement. You'll be part of a collaborative team that develops innovative solutions serving customers around the world.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.