Research and Development Technician

Company Description

Why work for Intersand?

• Thrive in a dynamic and expanding environment where ideas are valued and initiative is encouraged.
• Make a real and visible impact on innovation, product quality, data reliability, and process improvement.
• Help develop tomorrow’s talent and leaders in a culture that values coaching and professional development.
• Innovate and drive transformation with the support of an organization committed to continuous improvement.

Joining Intersand means becoming part of a company that stands out. As a certified B Corp and a Platinum Club member of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, we are building a responsible, high-performing, and future-focused organization every day. Driven by a sustainable vision and strong values, we have an international presence with products exported to more than 60 countries.

What We Offer

• Work-life balance
• Modern offices
• Competitive benefits package
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Wellness Spending Account
• Telemedicine and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Job Description

A Technical Role at the Heart of Product Innovation

Reporting to the R&D Manager, the Research and Development Technician conducts and documents tests to evaluate new raw materials, formulations, and process technologies for both traditional and alternative cat litters. Working closely with the R&D team, this individual contributes to experimental planning, data analysis, and the preparation of technical recommendations.

Using a rigorous experimental approach based on the scientific method, you will contribute to project advancement from laboratory test preparation through pilot and industrial trials, data analysis, and communication of findings to the project team. You will carry out work according to established priorities and protocols, report deviations, and suggest improvement opportunities. Major technical decisions are validated with the R&D Manager.

Your Impact

• Evaluate raw materials and formulations to support product development and improvement.
• Generate reliable, traceable, and reproducible data to support technical decision-making.
• Contribute to process optimization and scale-up activities, particularly in micro-pelletizing and extrusion.
• Support plant engineers in planning and executing trials to validate process changes.
• Support the safe and efficient execution of laboratory, pilot, and plant trials.
• Clearly communicate results, observations, deviations, and recommendations to the project team.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and execute test plans in collaboration with the R&D team, in accordance with approved protocols and scientific methodology.
• Prepare, label, and condition raw materials, formulations, and samples required for testing.
• Apply established analytical methods and operating procedures (SOPs), and report any deviations or unusual results.
• Analyze experimental data, perform required calculations, compile results, and provide relevant observations.
• Maintain laboratory notebooks, test plans, hypotheses, experimental parameters, raw results, and documented deviations to ensure traceability, integrity, and reproducibility.
• Prepare clear technical reports including methods, results, tables, graphs, conclusions, and recommendations.
• Ensure laboratory equipment is operating properly, perform or coordinate required inspections and calibrations, document equipment issues, and maintain workspaces and supplies.
• Manage sample identification, storage, traceability, retention, and disposal according to established practices.
• Contribute to pilot and industrial trials by preparing materials and protocols, recording operating parameters, collecting samples, and documenting observations useful for scale-up.
• Work in accordance with applicable health, safety, and environmental requirements for laboratory and plant trials, including proper handling and storage of materials and use of required personal protective equipment.
• Maintain awareness of relevant scientific and technological developments and share useful information with the R&D team.

Qualifications

What You Bring

• College diploma (DEC), Attestation of College Studies (AEC), or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as laboratory technology, chemistry, biotechnology, biochemistry, industrial processes, or materials science.
• Minimum of three years of relevant laboratory experience; R&D experience is considered a significant asset.
• Experience in a manufacturing, production, or quality control environment is an asset.
• Experience with micro-pelletizing or extrusion processes is an asset.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 standards and good laboratory or documentation practices is an asset.
• Strong scientific rigor, attention to detail, and commitment to data quality.
• Intellectual curiosity, practical judgment, and analytical thinking.
• Ability to manage multiple tests or projects simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a rapidly changing environment.
• Self-motivated with strong organizational skills and the ability to collaborate within a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to communicate effectively in both French and English, verbally and in writing, to collaborate with colleagues, suppliers, and partners outside Quebec and to consult technical documentation.
• Valid driver’s license and availability for occasional travel.

Working Conditions

• Primarily laboratory-based work, with occasional presence in pilot or production environments.
• Possible handling of powdered materials, raw materials, and samples in accordance with established risk-control measures.
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and ability to remain standing for extended periods.
• Ability to move samples and materials within the physical limits defined for the position.

Additional Information

At Intersand, we are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and encouraged to do their best. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, and we strive to ensure fair and equitable treatment throughout our recruitment process.