Want to be part of one of the country’s fastest growing infrastructure businesses? The Vortex Companies, LLC delivers cutting edge trenchless technologies and turnkey services to make the world’s water cleaner and we’re growing every day! We think BIG about solving the world’s toughest challenges in failing water, sewer and industrial infrastructure.

At Vortex, you will be surrounded by a culture that puts your safety first in all we do. If you like a fast-paced environment, a team structure that provides support, training, and development, then apply today!

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Research and Development Manager to lead our efforts in developing epoxy coatings resin and mortar solutions for trenchless construction applications. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in materials science, chemistry, and engineering, with a focus on formulating and optimizing epoxy-based products for durability, chemical resistance, and structural integrity in challenging underground environments.

Responsibilities: 

• Leadership: Provide strategic direction and leadership to the R&D team focused on epoxy coatings resin and mortar development, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
• Project Management: Oversee all stages of research and development projects, from concept generation to product commercialization, ensuring timely execution and alignment with business objectives.
• Formulation Development: Lead the formulation and optimization of epoxy coatings resin and mortar systems tailored for underground construction applications, addressing challenges such as adhesion to various substrates, resistance to moisture and chemicals, and mechanical strength.
• Performance Testing: Design and oversee comprehensive testing programs to evaluate the performance and durability of epoxy coatings resin and mortar formulations under simulated underground conditions, including exposure to moisture, chemicals, temperature fluctuations, and mechanical stress.
• Technical Innovation: Stay abreast of emerging technologies, materials, and industry trends related to epoxy-based coatings and construction materials, and drive the adoption of innovative solutions to enhance product performance and competitiveness.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate closely with other departments such as Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality Assurance to ensure seamless integration of R&D initiatives with product design, production processes, and quality standards.
• Regulatory Compliance: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant regulatory requirements and industry standards governing epoxy coatings and construction materials used in underground environments, ensuring compliance in all R&D activities.
• Market Analysis: Conduct market research and competitive analysis to identify emerging opportunities and unmet needs in the underground construction sector, and develop product strategies to capitalize on these opportunities

Qualifications: 

• Education: Bachelors degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in research and development roles focused on epoxy coatings, construction materials, or related fields, with a proven track record of successful product development and commercialization.
• Technical Skills: Expertise in epoxy chemistry, polymer science, formulation development, and materials characterization techniques relevant to underground construction applications. Experience with mortar formulations and application techniques is highly desirable.
• Leadership Abilities: Strong leadership and project management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams to achieve ambitious goals and overcome technical challenges.
• Innovation Mindset: Creative thinker with a passion for innovation and a demonstrated ability to translate technical insights into practical solutions that address customer needs and market opportunities.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with relevant regulatory requirements and industry standards governing coatings and construction materials used in underground environments, such as ASTM, ISO, and EPA regulations.
• Business Acumen: Solid understanding of business principles, market dynamics, and customer requirements in the underground construction sector, with the ability to develop and execute product strategies that drive growth and profitability. 

Vortex Companies, LLC and all subsidiaries is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against otherwise qualified applicants on the basis of race, color, creed, ancestry, religion, orientation, age, sex, marital status, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.