Okay, I found several R&D Technician positions in New Kensington, PA, specifically in the aluminum and material science fields. These roles require an Associate degree or equivalent experience and are offered as full-time positions. There are 12 available positions matching your criteria.

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The Research Technician II position with ELYSIS at Alcoa is fundamentally designed to support a groundbreaking advancement in the aluminum industry, specifically focusing on the carbon-free aluminum production process. The core purpose of this role revolves around conducting routine material analysis to maintain high quality standards in ongoing research and development efforts. This technician will lead all material diagnostic activities, which implies a hands-on approach to problem-solving and quality assurance in a lab environment. Success in this role is tied not only to technical competencies in thermal analysis and data management, but also the capacity to adhere to strict safety and quality protocols while effectively communicating findings through reports and presentations. Anticipated challenges may include navigating unexpected results during diagnostics, which will require a blend of analytical skills and operational troubleshooting capabilities. Over the first 6–12 months, performance expectations likely involve successfully managing data collection processes, contributing to safety benchmarks, and maintaining effective communication with cross-functional teams involved in the ELYSIS project.

Company Analysis:

Alcoa, as an industry leader in aluminum products, is at the forefront of sustainability with initiatives like the ELYSIS project, which aims to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions in aluminum production. This strategic positioning reinforces the significance of the Research Technician role, as it directly contributes to a pivotal technological shift. The company's culture underscores values such as integrity, excellence, care for people, and courageous leadership, suggesting an environment that celebrates innovation and collaboration. The ELYSIS team appears to operate in a dynamic and inclusive workplace, aligned with Alcoa’s commitment to respect and diversity. Furthermore, the position’s proximity to senior management, given its placement within a crucial R&D context, hints at opportunities for visibility and influence, making it essential for the incumbent to operate with a strategic mindset that encompasses both immediate project goals and broader organizational objectives. Ultimately, this role not only supports operational excellence but also advocates Alcoa’s vision of transforming industries through sustainability and innovation.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

• Tell me about a time when you had to manage multiple tasks in a laboratory setting. How did you prioritize your work?
• Can you describe a situation where you encountered unexpected results during an experiment? What steps did you take to resolve the issue?
• Discuss an experience where you had to communicate complex scientific data to a non-technical audience. How did you ensure clarity?
• How would you approach running a thermogravimetric analysis while ensuring adherence to safety protocols?
• What strategies would you employ to maintain accurate records for laboratory instrument data collection?
• How familiar are you with X-ray diffraction spectroscopy? Can you share an example of how you've used it in your previous work?
• Imagine you are tasked with analyzing a new material at the ELYSIS lab that doesn’t match the expected criteria. How would you investigate and report your findings?
• If you were leading a project that required collaboration with different teams, how would you ensure everyone stays aligned toward common goals?
• Why are you interested in joining Alcoa specifically, particularly in the context of the ELYSIS project?
• How do your values align with Alcoa's commitment to sustainability and community impact?
• What do you understand about the current trends in the aluminum industry and how ELYSIS is positioned to disrupt those trends?
• Can you provide an example of a successful project you worked on where teamwork was essential to achieving objectives?
• What do you feel are the most important skills for a Research Technician in the field of material science, and why?
• How would you ensure a safe laboratory environment while delivering high quality and productivity in your work?
• What questions do you have about the ELYSIS project and its future direction?