This role ensures the reliability and continuous improvement of chemical and physical testing methods, laboratory equipment, and data management systems. Working closely with cross-functional teams, the position contributes to material evaluation, quality assurance, problem-solving activities, and technical decision-making through the application of standardized testing practices and analytical techniques.
Essential Functions:
- Ensure proper operation, calibration, and qualification of analytical and physical test instrumentation (rheometers, tensile/compression testers, TGA, DSC, FTIR, DMA, and viscometers); lead troubleshooting of instrument failures and coordinate preventive maintenance.
- Develop, validate, and maintain test methods and instrument programming aligned with global laboratory standards and traceability to ASTM, ISO, and DIN reference methods.
- Interpret analytical and physical test data in the context of compound chemistry and formulation, applying in-depth knowledge of thermal analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and rheological characterization principles.
- Apply statistical process control (SPC) methodology—including control charts, Cpk analysis, and Gauge R&R studies—to monitor analytical test system performance and guide data-driven quality decisions.
- Collaborate with Quality, R&D, Product Engineering, and Production to investigate out-of-specification results using structured root cause analysis and design specialized test protocols for compound development and failure analysis.
- Lead and maintain the laboratory Chemical Hygiene Plan, including hazard communication, SDS management, chemical inventory control, waste disposal compliance, and delivery of technical training to laboratory personnel on test methods, instrument operation, and data integrity standards.
- Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or closely related discipline
- Minimum 2 years of hands-on laboratory experience in analytical chemistry, polymer/elastomer testing, or materials characterization in an industrial or applied research setting
- Demonstrated proficiency with thermal and spectroscopic analytical techniques (TGA, DSC, FTIR/ATR, DMA) and rheological testing (MDR, RPA, Mooney viscosity)
- Proficiency in instrument control software, LIMS, data analysis tools (Excel, Minitab, or equivalent), and solid understanding of Quality Management System principles, measurement system analysis (MSA/Gauge R&R), and ISO/IEC 17025 framework
- Working knowledge of laboratory instrument systems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, pneumatic, chemical safety) with first-level troubleshooting capability and strong communication and time management skills
At Continental we are committed to building an inclusive and discrimination-free ecosystem in Mexico, these principles are rooted in our corporate philosophy and culture. Therefore, it is totally forbidden to request a pregnancy or HIV test as part of our selection processes.
#LI-SFGO