R&D Grinding Technician II
$31,200–$57,449,600 year
On-siteGolden, Colorado, United States
Job Summary
Prepare, machine, and harvest ceramic and related material samples for laboratory testing and R&D evaluation by operating grinding, cutting, and shaping equipment such as Blanchard grinders, reciprocating surface grinders, table saws, and geological saws. Interpret work instructions, drawings, and customer requests to determine appropriate machining approaches, then verify sample dimensions using calipers, micrometers, and height gauges. Document preparation steps, equipment usage, and deviations while identifying and communicating concerns regarding sample condition, machining limitations, or contamination risks. Perform basic troubleshooting on sample preparation equipment, execute routine preventative maintenance, and assist with data gathering and technical reporting. Collaborate with analysts and engineers to ensure samples support valid testing, identify workflow improvements, and cross-train on related laboratory processes.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- 3 years of related work experience
- Bachelor's degree with 1 year of related work experience
- Intermediate math and writing skills
- Ability to read and follow work instructions, sample preparation requests, basic drawings, and dimensional requirements
- Ability to use basic measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and height gauges
- Able to generate basic technical notes, sample preparation records, and equipment-related documentation
- Understands basic material handling considerations for ceramics and other brittle materials, including chipping, cracking, edge quality, contamination, and dimensional control
- Possesses practical troubleshooting skills for sample preparation and machining equipment
- Able to use computer systems for basic departmental functions, including data entry, work tracking, and documentation
- Must be organized
- Detail-oriented
- Safety-focused
- Able to manage multiple sample preparation priorities
- Must be able to work with a diverse variety of people from different cultures and backgrounds
- Exhibits effective cooperation and communication skills to work within a team environment
- Must be able to work around rotating equipment, grinding wheels, saw blades, coolant systems, sharp edges, ceramic dust, and brittle material fragments
- Must be able to handle hazardous chemicals such as acids, solvents, coolants, or cleaning agents
- Must be able to wear a respirator
- Medical evaluation will be required prior to fitting
- Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs
- Must be able to stand for extended periods
- Must be able to bend
- Must be able to reach
- Must be able to push
- Must be able to pull
- Must be able to perform hands-on equipment operation throughout the workday
- Must be able to always wear appropriate personal protective equipment in work areas
Desired Qualifications
- Technical training, trade school coursework, or machining-related certification
- Experience operating grinders, saws, or other material removal equipment
- Experience with Blanchard grinders, reciprocating surface grinders, table saws, geological saws, or similar sample preparation equipment
- Experience machining, grinding, cutting, or preparing ceramic, glass, stone, carbide, refractory, or other brittle materials
- Experience in a laboratory, R&D, prototype, machine shop, ceramics manufacturing, or materials testing environment
- Experience with equipment maintenance, basic troubleshooting, and dimensional inspection
- G-Code programming knowledge
- Knowledge of CNC operation
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