A global leader in essential health and hygiene products, improving lives every day.
Lead Scientist Materials – you were made to explore uncharted questions, engineer innovative solutions, and advance scientific understanding while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. The role is part of a performance culture focused on solving real‑world problems with purpose, sustainability, inclusion, wellbeing, and career development, shaping the future for billions of people worldwide.
As a member of the R&D Absorbent Development Technology team, you will develop material, product, and technology concepts for fast‑moving personal‑care consumables such as diapers, training pants, and adult garments. You’ll collaborate with product teams, process engineers, corporate research and material scientists to translate business innovation plans into new or improved absorbent materials, manage key supplier relationships, mentor junior scientists, and ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and sustainability requirements.
Required qualifications include a bachelor’s or advanced degree in a scientific or engineering discipline, at least three years of industry experience in research, product/material development, or project management, strong teamwork across functional boundaries, and the ability to translate complex technical concepts for diverse audiences. Travel up to 15 % may be required, including occasional international trips.
Preferred qualifications encompass deep knowledge of non‑woven and absorbent system performance relationships, experience analyzing material properties, translating prototypes to commercial scale, supplier management, leading material and product launch activities with global partners, and prior international experience within a global organization.
Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with no waiting periods, access to on‑site fitness facilities and safety‑equipment allowances, flexible spending accounts, diverse income‑protection insurance, and programs supporting education, adoption, relocation, and temporary childcare. Relocation assistance is provided for the selected candidate under Kimberly‑Clark’s mobility policies.
To be considered, click Apply and complete the online application; a recruiter will review your submission. Kimberly‑Clark is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive workforce that reflects the diversity of its consumers. The role is based in Neenah, WI with a salary range of $87,260–$107,780, plus target bonus, 401(k), profit‑sharing, and additional total‑rewards elements.