Product Development Engineer

Overview
Provide technical expertise to support the business by developing and commercializing new specialty paper grades, coordinating grade transfers, and improving the manufacturing process of existing products. Responsibilities include planning, designing, and running trials to create product prototypes that meet specific targets and timelines, as well as developing new test methods and product specifications as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Product Development: Develop new products in line with the company’s growth strategy.
• Production Optimization: Lead efforts to identify optimal production paths for new and existing paper grades.
• Customer Engagement: Enhance customer relationships by understanding their product requirements and ensuring development efforts meet these needs.
• Prototyping and Trials: Investigate and prepare prototypes, define product specifications and costs, and coordinate pilot coater and mill trials.
• Troubleshooting: Support and assist in troubleshooting and problem-solving for existing and new products at all facilities, with a primary focus on the local facility.
• Technical Assistance: Provide technical assistance and direction for procurement and cost-reduction initiatives.
• Collaboration: Develop and maintain cooperative working relationships within product development, operations, technical, and sales & marketing departments.
• Industry Awareness: Develop external contacts to stay informed about the latest and emerging technologies relevant to existing or future businesses.
• Market Insight: Demonstrate a strong understanding of industry, market, and technology trends, identifying threats and opportunities, and addressing business issues.
• Project Management: Track and communicate project progress using project management methods and document results appropriately. Participate as a team member in cross-functional product development teams.
• Customer Visits: Visit customers as required.

Qualifications

• Education: Degree in paper science, chemical engineering, or related technical disciplines.
• Experience: Five plus (5 ) years of experience, with the possibility of substituting directly relevant work experience for education.
• Product Development: Experience with product development in paper mills.
• Technical Knowledge: Knowledge of paper manufacturing, coating processes, materials, and applications.
• Project Management: Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects to meet deadlines.
• Skills: Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and organizational skills.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, including customer interaction abilities.

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