R&D Engineer

Description

• Establish and maintain the quality program for fiber insulation.
• Conduct review meetings as necessary to ensure that the Product and Process Development priorities are aligned with those of management of the functional areas (Administration, Sales and Marketing, Operations, Logistics, Quality, EH&S, etc.)
• Foster new product introductions and scale-up process from concept to commercialization.
• Translate lab insights into scalable, plant-ready solutions.
• Utilize Phase-Gate process to manage R&D portfolio and mentor the use of appropriate project management tools.
• Explore novel forming technologies to enhance product structure and integrity.
• Laboratory work including statistical data analysis, fabrication of prototypes and root cause investigation.
• Provide R&D support to the manufacturing team, scientists, plant engineers, and project managers to help enhance organic growth in the fiber insulation This includes:
• Collaborate and lead cross-functionally to ensure that all facets of product development are accomplished smoothly.
• Develop project schedules, incorporating key tactical items for other functional Plans out in detail technical portions of all projects including operational pieces.
• Completes assignments in a timely manner.
• Work in partnership with multiple functional areas (including manufacturing, purchasing and sales) to establish strategic plans and objectives materials and system solutions.
• Network internally and externally, to acquire information for projects and identify future opportunities.
• Build and test prototypes, conduct pilot trials, and support implementation in manufacturing environments.
• Investigate and resolve product issues.
• Deliver design advances for product and process development.
• Collaborate with equipment vendors and research partners to accelerate development.
• Develop new methods to improve fiber dispersion, weight uniformity, and thermal performance.
• Identify new opportunities to provide the basis for technical projects; includes Revolutionary and Evolutionary advances.
• Interpret voice of the customer (VOC) and provide guidance on product development and troubleshooting.
• Present technical information to a non-technical audience, and effectively present complex or conflicting information.
• Design and refine systems for separating, conditioning, and forming natural fibers into consistent, high-quality batts.
• Solve problems of diverse scope, including product/process development, product/process improvement, field issue resolution, manufacturing efficiencies, and outsourcing support.
• Provides leadership by example regarding safe work practices.
• Ensures accurate and timely documentation of all work.
• Identify innovative materials compatible with the system to augment product performance.

Requirements

• A proven record of initiating and managing innovation, and use of design to achieve results.
• Expertise with maintenance, development, and project management techniques.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to understand and run various pieces of lab and manufacturing equipment.
• The basic work environment is a combination of the manufacturing floor, office, and laboratory with an average of 1 week of travel per month (although more or less travel may be required based on business needs). The environment demands that multiple projects be worked on at the same time. Product evaluations will require travel to and working in manufacturing facilities and various jobsites in the field.
• Conceptual knowledge of residential and commercial building science.
• Ability to work at a high conceptual level providing novel approaches but can also dive into details to mentor staff/teams.
• Knowledge of building codes and regulations.
• Works well with others – utilizes all resources available to the fullest.
• Master’s or PhD in material science, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, chemical engineering.
• Demonstrated ability to work across functional areas and business.
• At least 5 years of firsthand experience in a technical role.
• Understanding of various construction practices.
• Strong organizational skills including sample management and storage.
• A Bachelor’s degree in material science, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, or chemical engineering.
• Knowledge of sustainable design principles and circular materials.
• Ability to establish professional networks both within the company and with outside entities.
• 2 years of experience in a construction materials manufacturing support role.
• Approaches problems in an analytical way.
• Employs a logical scientific approach to identify and initiate development projects.
• Safe lab practices including chemical handing, sample preparation and use of all cutting tools and equipment.
• Hands-on experience with prototyping, pilot lines, or manufacturing equipment.
• 5 or more years of experience in an R&D or Product Management capacity specific to natural fiber or other nonwoven building products.
• Expert level proficiency in communication and leadership.

Benefits

• Health Advocate – health care concierge service
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance- DAY 1
• Leave & Disability Income Protection (FMLA, LOA, PPL, STD, LTD)
• PTO – sick days, 11 holidays, vacation
• 401K Retirement Savings Plan with company match
• Flexible Spending accounts (commuter benefits, flexible spending accounts, health savings account)
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• College Scholarships for Dependents
• Tuition Reimbursement

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance