Quality Associate

POSITION OVERVIEW 

The Mold Lab Technician is responsible for operating injection molding equipment and laboratory testing instruments to produce molded test specimens and perform physical property testing. Working within an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory, this position follows documented procedures to generate accurate, reliable, and traceable test data while supporting quality, safety, and continuous improvement initiatives. 

The Foley Quality Mold Lab Technician position is based on an 8-hour shift, covering weekends and holidays as needed. Overtime is available during high sample volume times as the need arises.  

TARGETED OUTCOMES 

• Produce molded test specimens that meet applicable ASTM, ISO, and internal laboratory requirements. 

• Generate accurate, repeatable, and traceable test data while following approved laboratory procedures. 

• Maintain laboratory equipment and work areas in a safe, organized, and audit-ready condition. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES  

• Produce molded test specimens using injection molding machines. 

• Perform a diverse range of physical and thermal testing in accordance with ASTM, ISO, and internal laboratory procedures, such as tensile, flexural, impact, DSC, and density. 

• Operate computer-controlled laboratory instruments and maintain complete, accurate test records and equipment verification documentation. 

• Verify specimen identification and maintain sample traceability throughout testing. 

• Perform routine equipment verification, preventive maintenance, and calibration checks per laboratory procedures. 

• Communicate test results, nonconforming work, equipment issues, and testing status to appropriate personnel in a timely manner. 

• Participate in proficiency testing, round robins, Gage R&R studies, laboratory investigations, GEMBA walks, and continuous improvement activities. 

• Follow all safety guidelines and Stop the Job if any unsafe behavior or working conditions are observed. 

• Maintain technical competency through required training and periodic competency assessments. 

TEAM 

• Reports to: Quality Lab Supervisor with daily supervision from the Lead Lab Technician

• Team Members: Quality Lab Team and Production Team 

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE 

• A two-year associate degree (science field) or equivalent experience is required. 

• Knowledge of Six Sigma practices, yellow belt or higher certification is desired. 

• Experience with plastics processing, injection molding, or laboratory testing is preferred. 

REQUIRED SKILLS 

• Strong written, verbal, organizational, and documentation skills. 

• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to safely operate, inspect, and perform basic troubleshooting of laboratory testing and injection molding equipment. 

• Ability to learn and effectively use SampleManager Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). 

• Ability to be safety-conscious and work as a team player with minimal supervision.   

• Demonstrates initiative, effective time management, accountability, attention to detail, and commitment to data integrity. 

At Ascend Performance Materials, we value transparency and fairness in our hiring process. We do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters, search firms, or staffing agencies. Any resumes received from such entities will be considered the property of Ascend Performance Materials, and we will not be obligated to pay any fees for such submissions. Our Talent Acquisition Team actively engages with preferred recruitment partners who have established agreements with us. We encourage all interested candidates to apply directly through our official channels to be considered for any open positions.

About Us:

Ascend Performance Materials is the premium provider of high-quality chemicals, fibers and plastics focused on improving quality of life and inspiring a better tomorrow through innovation. We are a fully integrated material solutions provider with manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe and Asia.

Our global workforce makes the materials used to make safer vehicles, cleaner energy, better medical devices, smarter appliances, and longer-lasting apparel and consumer goods. We are committed to safety, sustainability, and the success of our customers and our communities.

Why work at Ascend?

Our vision is to be the recognized leader in the nylon 6,6 value chain, creating new possibilities with PA66 for everyone, everywhere, every day. We achieve that through living our Ascend values: OARS.

Our OARS values shape how we work, lead, and grow together. We take ownership, stay accountable, operate reliably, and support one another to deliver results safely and consistently. Through clear expectations, empowered decision-making, intentional communication, and continuous feedback, we create a culture built on action, visibility, and shared success.

Together, OARS gives us a shared language and clear direction. These values guide our decisions, shape priorities and set expectations as we move forward – aligned, focused and committed to creating performance materials that improve lives today and inspire a better tomorrow.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, citizenship, genetic information or other protected status under federal, state or local laws.