Materials Innovation Engineer

Essential Duties:

• Lead new materials development projects, including sustainable and advanced polymer formulations.

• Conduct hands-on experimentation and testing in the renovated Materials Development Lab.

• Lead cross-functional project teams, setting priorities, timelines, and ensuring accountability for project outcomes.

• Mentor and train junior staff to build organizational expertise in materials development and compliance.

• Champion continuous improvement and innovation, influencing decisions across R&D, operations, and product management.

• Represent the organization externally, engaging with industry groups, Codes & Standards committees, and regulatory bodies as a technical leader.

• Collaborate with Engineering, Product Management, and Operations to align R&D with commercial strategy.

• Provide technical support to manufacturing facilities, with particular emphasis on Seymour Rubber and Nuclear groups.

• Research and implement environmentally responsible materials to support corporate sustainability goals.

• Document experimental results and maintain a robust database of formulation data and performance outcomes.

• Participate in the succession planning process by capturing and transitioning institutional knowledge from retiring experts.

• Maximize the use of new lab investments through regular development and validation of innovative materials.

• Support regulatory compliance initiatives, including Prop 65, RoHS, and other applicable standards.

These are the general duties required to fulfill the Materials Innovation Engineer's job description, not a detailed description of all the work required. New duties and responsibilities may be required to meet the changing demands of the business.

Education and Experience Preferred:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.

• 2+ years of experience in R&D, preferably in polymeric or rubber materials development.

• Experience working with compliance regulations (Prop 65, RoHS) and product innovation processes.

Knowledge and Skills Preferred:

• Demonstrated expertise in material formulation and polymer characterization.

• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to independently manage complex projects.

• Ability to lead teams and manage projects from concept through commercialization.

• Mentoring and coaching skills, fostering growth in junior team members.

• Experience representing the company in external technical forums, industry standards committees, or regulatory discussions.

• Proficiency with laboratory instrumentation and data analysis.

• Familiarity with technical documentation and reporting.

• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

• Ability to work effectively in team-based environments and contribute to collaborative problem-solving.

Working Conditions and/or Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work in a lab setting with exposure to chemicals and testing equipment.

• Must be able to lift and move objects up to 50 lbs.

• Ability to follow safety protocols and wear required PPE.

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Some travel to manufacturing sites and industry-related Codes & Standards meetings may be required.