Research & Development Technician

We are seeking a Research and Development Technician based in our Chicago, IL location to join the Development Engineering team.  This position is fully on-site and requires travel of 10-20% within USA.

Address: 4849 S. Austin Ave. Chicago, IL 60638

Ready to help build a better future for generations to come?

In an ever-changing, fast paced world, we owe it to ourselves and our future generations to live life responsibly.  At ROCKWOOL, we work relentlessly to enrich modern living through our innovative stone wool solutions.

Join us and make a difference!

What you will be doing:

The R&D Technician is a hands-on role within the Development Engineering team responsible for supporting product development through lab organization, test setup, ceiling mock-up construction, sample preparation, equipment readiness, and execution of standard testing activities. This role helps maintain a safe, organized, and effective R&D lab environment while supporting engineers in the testing and evaluation of ceiling system products and materials.

Responsibilities include:

• Product Testing: Test ceiling systems and materials, including strength, fire, and seismic testing. Build mock-ups, document results, and support product development. Some travel is required.
• Quality Assurance and Compliance: Evaluate products against industry standards and internal requirements through accurate testing, measurement, and documentation.
• Prototype Design and Fabrication: Build prototypes, test fixtures, and ceiling mock-ups using hand tools, power tools, and fabrication techniques. Read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Data Collection and Reporting: Record, analyze, and report test data using Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and communicate findings clearly.
• Laboratory and Equipment Maintenance: Maintain clean, safe, and organized lab and testing areas. Manage tools, materials, and equipment; troubleshoot issues; and coordinate equipment repairs and calibration.
• Collaboration and Communication: Work with Engineering, Quality Assurance, Production, project managers, and external testing partners to plan tests, communicate progress, resolve issues, and support product compliance.
• Safety: Follow safety procedures and ensure the safe use of tools, ladders, PPE, and material handling equipment, including compliance by lab visitors and team members.
• Ownership and Continuous Improvement: Manage assigned tasks and lab resources independently, meet deadlines, and proactively improve laboratory organization, workflows, and processes.

What you bring:

• Associate degree with five years of relevant experience, or seven years of related experience in lieu of a degree.
• ASQ Certified Quality Technician (CQT) certification or willingness to obtain it within one year.
• Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, measurement instruments, and Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, interpret test data, and communicate findings clearly.
• Ability to work on ladders, perform overhead work, and lift or carry up to 50 lbs.
• Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, problem-solving, organization, and time management skills.
• Effective communication, teamwork, initiative, and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Hands-on approach to testing, fabrication, troubleshooting, material handling, and laboratory organization.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety.
• Experience with ceiling systems, construction mock-ups, mechanical assembly, fabrication, or machine shop practices is preferred.
• Knowledge of 5S or workplace organization methods is preferred.
• A valid forklift license in good standing is preferred.

What we offer:

• Competitive Pay & Benefits from Day 1:  Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401K Match: Up to 6%
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO, 12 paid holidays, and parental leave.
• Educational Assistance & Career Growth: Invest in your future.
• Wellness Perks: Fitness reimbursement and EAP access.
• Safety First: Company-provided PPE and programs to keep you protected.

The annual salary range for this role is $65,000 - 75,000. Your base salary is determined based on location, experience and the pay of employees in similar positions.

Who we are:

We are the world leader in stone wool solutions. Founded in 1937 in Denmark, we transform volcanic rock into safe, sustainable products that help people and communities thrive.  We are a global company with 12,000 employees, located in 37 countries with 36 manufacturing facilities, all focused on one common purpose – to release the natural power of stone to enrich modern living.  Sustainability is central to our business strategy.  Through our partnership with One Ocean Foundation and in connection with our sponsorship of the Denmark SailGP team, we help raise awareness around ocean health challenges in an effort to accelerate solutions to protect it.   

This role is part of our Rockfon business, a division of the ROCKWOOL Group. Rockfon delivers comprehensive ceiling system solutions, integrating stone wool and specialty metal ceiling panels with Chicago Metallic suspension systems, providing high-quality, sustainable offerings to our customers.  To learn more, visit www.rockfon.com.

Work Environment & Conditions:

Our offices are designed to inspire collaboration, creativity, and meaningful social interactions., empowering employees to achieve balance and bring their best selves to work.  ROCKWOOL is deeply committed to giving back to our communities. Through global philanthropic initiatives, community involvement, and sustainability efforts, we strive to create a positive impact in the communities we serve. 

Our Culture and Commitment:

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and heard.  With employees representing 91 nationalities, we champion diversity, provide equal opportunities, and actively combat all forms of discrimination.  At ROCKWOOL, you'll find a welcoming team environment built on what we proudly call “The ROCKWOOL Way”.  This cultural foundation reflects our core values:  ambition, responsibility, integrity and efficiency.

ROCKWOOL is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We assess all qualified candidates based solely on their skills and qualifications, without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.