Research & Development Zirconia Technician The Research & Development Zirconia Technician assists in preparing materials, operating laboratory and production equipment, and documenting results in support of research and development testing in the zirconia production facility. The position performs all work in accordance with established procedures and Company safety, quality, and confidentiality requirements. About Us Argen is a family-owned and privately held company based in San Diego, CA with a state-of-the-art manufacturing center that provides high quality dental solutions to dental labs of all sizes. Founded as a precious metals company in South Africa, Argen has evolved into a dynamic, technology-based manufacturing organization focused on three key business segments, including dental alloys, zirconia, and digital dentistry solutions. Argen continues to invest in innovative product improvement initiatives through its Quality Management System to provide our global customers with affordable, high-performance products and industry-leading excellent service. Argen’s products are FDA regulated and ISO certified. Essential Duties & Responsibilities: • Participates in product development activities for new and existing manufacturing processes. • Prepares ceramic powder blends for research and development projects in accordance with established formulations and procedures. • Operates equipment used in research and development projects (e.g., mass scales, powder blenders, hydraulic presses) in accordance with operating instructions and safety procedures. Provides assistance to other members of the ceramics research and development team on manufacturing and process development activities. • Maintains accurate, complete, and contemporaneous records of project work in accordance with good documentation practices. Adheres to all Company safety policies and procedures, including proper use of required PPE. • Prepares test specimens and performs basic measurements, such as dimensions, weight, density, and shrinkage. • Supports property testing, such as flexural strength, translucency, and shade evaluation, as directed. • Compiles results on spreadsheets or summary report for R&D/Engineering review. • Promptly reports equipment malfunctions. • Identifies and reports deviations, nonconforming results, or unexpected outcomes. • Othe duties as assigned What does it take to be successful? • Associate of Science (AS) degree in engineering technology, chemistry, materials science, physics, or a related technical field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience. • Minimum of three (3) years of hands-on experience in a research and development, laboratory, or technical manufacturing environment. • Working knowledge of basic math, including weights, ratios, percentages, and metric units. • Familiarity with laboratory or production equipment preferred. • Demonstrated accuracy and attention to detail in performing measurements, following procedures, and maintaining documentation. • Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly document work and report results. • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, and Outlook); experience with data entry or laboratory data systems preferred. • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, prioritize assigned tasks, and maintain professional working relationships. • Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including research and development, production, quality, and engineering personnel. • Understanding of manufacturing quality systems and regulatory requirements (ISO 13485, cGMP preferred). Our Awesome Benefits! Working for a growing innovative company like Argen means exciting opportunities for training and learning, career development and advancement from only the best in the dental industry. With all that hard work, Argen is committed to ensuring the welfare of its employees and provides an amazing benefit package that includes: • Health/Dental/Vision Plans • 401k with Employer Match • Paid Vacation, Holiday and Sick Time • Employee Events • Wellness Programs • Discounts for home, travel, entertainment, relaxation that includes Mobile phone service, Technology, Airline and Hotel, Theater/Theme Park tickets, Restaurants and so much more! EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled VEVRAA Federal Contractor