Research And Development Manager

*** This is a regional search in an attempt to draw talent from the city to our company in a more rural location. Role is located west of Philadelphia 2 hrs. 100% on site. Great relocation assistance provided. ***

Job Description

The Manager, Thermoplastics - Polyvinyl Chloride R&D will research and develop chemical formulations for Thermoplastic products. The role includes but is not limited to innovating new products and processes, supporting existing products and processes, optimizing operational costs and installation costs, quality assurance of raw material specifications, and supply continuity. The Manager, Polyvinyl Chloride R&D will supervise and mentor scientists and other technically trained personnel and be responsible for managing team using processes consistent with broader organization and in conjunction with direct leadership and working across a cross-functional organization.

This job will be performed on-site in mainly an office environment, Monday – Friday, with typical work

hours of 8am – 5pm, though additional hours worked may be required. This job will require minimal yearly travel, less than 20%.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Research and develop technologies to create and sell new products.
• Create new tests that support new products, and process development.
• Read technical documents and research latest technologies to identify future new products and processes.
• Manage the calibration, performance monitoring, maintenance, and operation of equipment.
• Become the Subject Matter Expert on current and future R&I processes effectively utilizing and championing with team
• Direct and manage R&I strategy for Thermoplastics - Polyvinyl Chloride products.
• Responsible for research, development and innovation of Thermoplastic - Polyvinyl Chloride
• Work with manufacturing and engineering groups to facilitate successful transfer of new technology.
• Leads, mentors, and develops the Thermoplastics team, fostering a collaborative, productive environment.
• Maintain efficient and effective allocation of capital and human resources to ensure optimal performance of the team.
• Demonstrate effective technology decision making.
• Review, establish and prioritize projects/processes that support R&I and Manufacturing objectives.
• Work effectively with other department leaders to drive company strategy and initiatives.
• Assist in formulating the company's future direction and supporting tactical initiatives.
• Expectation to understand, participate in, and support company COS initiatives, with focus on developing a lean mindset.
• Work with principal scientist or staff scientist to effectively ensure technical training of more junior team members and onboarding of new team members.
• Effectively coach and mentor team members to develop leadership and behavioral skills consistent with company and team culture.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

Essential Knowledge

• Chemical Formula Expertise & Knowledge
• Establishing Thermoplastic products, including Polyvinyl Chloride, design and performance requirements, formulations, process requirement, technical and processing specification
• Polyvinyl Chloride Thermoplastic Product lines formulations and raw materials
• New Product formulation research and development
• Operation of analytical, mechanical property and chemical processing equipment
• Test equipment knowledge and test method development
• Safety compliance and procedures knowledge
• Math/algebra/applied statistics
• Laboratory Information Data System knowledge
• Computer knowledge of current programs
• Processing technology knowledge
• Elementary concepts in building envelope system technology
• Knowledge of polymer materials and compounds
• Company rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Internal processing and purchasing specifications.
• Standard test methods and procedures
• Handling, storage safe handling of hazardous waste and materials.

Essential Skills

• Data Analysis
• Test output interpretation
• Data analysis (i.e. XR charts and histograms)
• Statistical calculations
• Ability to use data to make decisions.
• Technical and Individual Leadership skills
• Help solve problems.
• Ability to facilitate laboratory workload with good safety and practices.
• Ability to train others.
• Ability to multitask, work with flexible assignments and schedules.
• Ability to coach and mentor team members in technical skills and leadership skills
• Must be able to work in a matrix organization demonstrating strong collaboration skills and ability to work transparently with direct leadership team and cross-functional organization while being willing to take accountability for self and direct reports
• Interpersonal skills-oral communication, written communication
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Individual and group problem solving skills
• Mathematical reasoning and problem solving

Essential Abilities

• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Ability to manage and develop direct reports
• Ability to manage and execute on portfolio of projects
• Ability to effectively motivate and collaborate with diverse team members to bring group together to drive overall team performance consistent with organizational culture

Education and Experience:

Required:

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Chemistry, Physical Sciences, Polymer Science (or related technical discipline) with laboratory coursework. Candidates with other relevant industry experience may be considered.
• At least 10 years’ experience in R&D or R&D/manufacturing/supply chain in roles with increasing responsibility
• Understanding of scientific method and its application.
• Knowledge and demonstration of developing and commercializing new materials and products.

Preferred:

• MS or PhD in Engineering, Chemistry, Physical Sciences, Polymer Science (or related technical discipline) with at least 5 years of industrial experience.
• Previous people leadership experience
• Formulation experience with polyvinyl chloride; more preferred would be experience in flexible polyvinyl chloride
• Demonstrated ability to coach and mentor team members in project management and leadership skills
• Strong cross-functional experience with purchasing, plants, supply chain and marketing.