Laboratory Technician, Protective Fabrics

POSITION TITLE 

Lab Technician, Protective Fabrics 

POSITION OVERVIEW 

The Laboratory Technical Associate will report to the Senior Development Engineer and serve as an integral team member in the growth and innovation efforts of Milliken’s Protective Fabrics business. This role supports development and testing efforts in flame-resistant and post-finishing technologies within the Lab Services & Compliance team. The position is first shift, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 

Milliken’s Textile Division operates in a wide variety of markets, including uniform apparel, napery, interior fabrics, activewear apparel, reinforcing fabrics, military fabrics, and airbags. The division provides innovative, custom-engineered material solutions and strives to create high-value, differentiated solutions that address critical challenges within targeted market segments. 

Milliken’s Protective Fabrics business offers high-performance materials for the military, fire service, and industrial workwear markets using woven and knitted fabrics, often with specialized chemically functionalized surfaces. These treatments include flame resistance, water repellency, moisture management, and antimicrobial properties. 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES 

Collaborate with the development team to develop new products for the market. 

Conduct laboratory experiments under the direction of the Senior Development Engineer in the areas of flame resistance and chemical finishing for textiles. 

Perform testing and chemical analysis on samples. 

Prepare laboratory reports that detail experimental design, testing results, and analysis. 

Participate in the site safety process. 

Assist with facilitating scale-up trials at manufacturing sites. 

Maintain laboratory chemical inventory, chemical labeling, and safety data sheet compliance requirements. 

QUALIFICATIONS - REQUIRED 

Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Science or Engineering, or equivalent work experience. 

Computer skills related to data entry and tracking, including Microsoft Excel and Word. 

Basic understanding of statistical analysis. 

Highly motivated, self-driven, and open-minded individual who can accomplish tasks and projects in a limited-supervision environment. 

Ability to travel to local plants for day trips only. 

Ability to move around to multiple job stations and operate basic tools as needed during an 8-hour day. 

QUALIFICATIONS - PREFERRED 

Experience in an industrial laboratory setting. 

Understanding of chemical concepts. 

Experience with textiles. 

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