R&D Engineer

Description

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

Requirements

• Ability to establish professional networks both within the company and with outside entities.
• 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.
• At least 5 years of firsthand experience in a technical role.
• Ability to work at a high conceptual level providing novel approaches but can also dive into details to mentor staff/teams.
• A Bachelor’s degree in material science, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, or chemical engineering.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to understand and run various pieces of lab and manufacturing equipment.
• Expertise with maintenance, development, and project management techniques.
• Knowledge of building codes and regulations.
• Understanding of various construction practices.
• Conceptual knowledge of residential and commercial building science.
• Expert level proficiency in communication and leadership.
• Works well with others – utilizes all resources available to the fullest.
• Employs a logical scientific approach to identify and initiate development projects.
• 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.
• Approaches problems in an analytical way.
• Knowledge of sustainable design principles and circular materials.
• 2 years of experience in a construction materials manufacturing support role.
• Master’s or PhD in material science, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, chemical engineering.
• Demonstrated ability to work across functional areas and business.
• Safe lab practices including chemical handing, sample preparation and use of all cutting tools and equipment.
• A proven record of initiating and managing innovation, and use of design to achieve results.
• Strong organizational skills including sample management and storage.

Benefits

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

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance