Materials Technology Manager

Position Summary

The Materials Technology Manager will lead the development and optimization of materials to meet engineering and product performance standards. This role involves overseeing research, testing, and implementation of materials for industrial applications, particularly in rubber manufacturing. The manager will collaborate with cross-functional teams, ensure compliance with industry standards, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. The manager collaborates with cross-functional teams, including R&D, engineering, procurement, and manufacturing, to ensure material solutions align with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Material Development & Innovation:
• Research, develop, and implement new materials with improved properties for product applications.
• Stay updated on emerging material technologies, trends, and industry best practices.
• Lead material selection processes for new product development and optimization.
• Ensure materials meet required performance standards and customer specifications.
• Develop material specifications and selection criteria for various compounds such as NBR, HNBR, FKM, and FFKM.
• Conduct evaluations to assess compliance with API, NORSOK, ISO, and other industry standards.
• Testing & Quality Assurance:
• Oversee material testing to ensure compliance with regulatory and industry standards.
• Implement quality control measures and material specifications for manufacturing.
• Analyze failure reports and implement corrective actions for material-related issues.
• Conduct root cause analysis on material failures and implement corrective actions.
• Cross functional Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement:
• Lead and mentor internal teams and technical staff in material development projects.
• Work closely with production teams to improve material usage and process efficiency.
• Coordinate testing and qualification of materials with internal teams and third-party suppliers.
• Work closely with engineering, R&D, and manufacturing teams to integrate materials into product designs.
• Collaborate with suppliers and external research institutions to enhance material capabilities.
• Cost & Process Optimization:
• Identify cost-saving opportunities through material substitutions and process improvements.
• Develop strategies to reduce waste, improve recyclability, and enhance sustainability.
• Support procurement teams in supplier selection and evaluation for raw materials.
• Compliance & Documentation:
• Ensure all materials comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental requirements.
• Maintain documentation and certifications for material compliance.
• Prepare technical reports and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
  

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 5-7 years of experience in materials research, materials testing , development, or engineering roles.
• Experience working with rubber, elastomers, and polymer-based materials.
• Proficiency in material simulation and testing software is an advantage.
  
  

Required Competencies & Skills

• Technical Skills:
• Strong knowledge of rubber processing, bonding techniques, and material testing methodologies.
• Proficiency in industry standards (API, NORSOK, ISO) and compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as DSC, DMA, TGA, TMA and tensometers.
• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills:
• Ability to diagnose material-related challenges and implement innovative solutions.
• Strong data analysis skills for material selection and performance evaluation.
• Project Management:
• Ability to lead material development projects from conception to implementation.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple initiatives and deadlines.
• Collaboration & Communication:
• Excellent interpersonal and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to present technical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Business Acumen & Strategic Thinking:
• Understanding of cost implications and supply chain considerations in material selection.
• Ability to align material strategies with overall business objectives.