Physical Testing Technician

SUMMARY

This position is responsible for using laboratory equipment in a safe manner and following standard Physical Testing, ASTM, and other test methods and procedures to conduct a wide variety of routine and non-routine tests on plastic resins and fabricated plastic products. These tests include both physical and analytical type testing.  This position will advance through the job progression system (5 levels) and eventually achieve the status of a 48-Month Senior Technician.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

May include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Follow written Physical Testing, ASTM, or other test methods as supplied, to perform all duties and work in a safe manner that will provide quality samples and test results at maximum efficiency, meeting control requirements.  Recording of all test results, sample identification, and other necessary information to assure that quality records are maintained.  Follow any special instructions of the Laboratory Superintendent as to testing, retesting, special testing, and reporting.
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment, reporting any problems and/or problem areas to supervision.  
• Perform standards and control sample testing as required to ensure proper operations of testing equipment.
• Maintain Calibration and Preventative Maintenance database.  Perform calibrations and maintenance as required.
• Update and issue the weekly, monthly, and yearly backlog report.
• Evaluate and recommend changes to help improve test procedures or other lab policies.
• Anticipate and report inventory needs of consumable supplies prior to depletion.
• Proficient in the use of the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Accept stewardship of physical testing equipment and supplies so as to conserve and prevent destruction by carelessness or other misuse.
• Communicate effectively in order to perform the essential functions of the job.  Train new employees and technical staff.  Interface with external customers.  Assist the technical staff with non-routine testing and method development.
• Actively participate in TAP process to improve department safety performance.
• Perform duties in a manner that protects the environment and personal safety as well as the safety of all personnel on site.  Whenever appropriate, promptly report Safety, Health or Environmental incidents or issues to management so the situation can be corrected.  Attend Monthly Safety Meetings to help prevent off site and job accidents.
• Wear required PPE for a given task.  
• Train on select Sr. Technician job assignments and assist as needed.
• Follow Level I, II, and III SOP and SQP’s in according with ISO requirements.
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of Westlake Quality Policy and Department Quality Objective per ISO requirements.    
• Follow Company policies and programs including all HSE policies and procedures.
• Complete all CBT (TRAQS) modules as assigned.
• Perform other related duties as designated by supervision.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or the equivalent is required.
• Two-year college degree in a related field or four years of experience in a polyethylene/Epolene QC lab or four years of experience in a polyethylene conversion plant (ex. blown film, blow molding, sheet extrusion