Job Title:  Lab Assistant Intern 

Reports To:   Blending and Adhesive Specialist
Job Class: Part Time (20 hours) or Full Time (40 hours)

At SmartSolve (a division of CMC Group, Inc.), we’ve chosen to take the road less traveled. We’re committed to a transcendent purpose, to glorify Christ through our character and actions as we faithfully steward His creation and resources. We’re dedicated to innovation through a compelling vision, making packaging no longer trash. And we’re sold out to a mission which will transform the food packaging industry, enabling people to better care for the planet by pioneering zero waste packaging technologies. 

Our Lab Assistant Intern will support R&D activities to expand existing high performance product portfolio, and to maintain and enhance the Company’s position as an innovator.; assist in research and development on compostable and biodegradable biopolymers.  

Essential Duties:  

• Assist in the development and optimization of pressure-sensitive adhesives and biopolymer formulations. 
• Perform laboratory testing to support R&D and Quality initiatives. 
• Conduct material characterization and analysis for food safety and environmental compliance. 
• Support stability and compatibility testing for biopolymer formulations. 
• Assist in the development and implementation of quality control protocols. 
• Collaborate with specialists and cross-functional teams to integrate biopolymer solutions into production processes. 
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations for internal use. 
• Maintain lab equipment and follow safety protocols. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.   
• Critical thinking with strong attention to detail. 
• Ability to manage time and balance multiple tasks, such as coursework, projects, and deadlines. 
• Good understanding of laboratory information systems and automated laboratory equipment. 
• Experience working with Microsoft Office Suite. 

Training and Experience: 

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor’s degree in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, or a related field. 

Preferred Skills: 

• Basic understanding of composability and biodegradability concepts and testing methods (coursework or lab experience preferred). 
• Exposure to biopolymer coatings development or similar laboratory projects. 
• Familiarity with regulatory standards and certifications for biopolymers (gained through coursework or internships). 

Physical Requirements: 

• Ability to work on-site at the SmartSolve facility in Bowling Green, OH. 
• Reaching for phone and keyboard. 
• Talking, hearing and repetitive motion. 
• Standing for long-periods of time. 
• Required to have visual acuity to determine the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned or to make general observations of facilities or structures.