Job Description

Bio Polymer Extrusion Application Engineer

This is a great opportunity to join a company on the cutting edge of new bio-polymer technologies.They have a great culture that promotes innovative thinking and the development of novel biopolymer solutions for consumer goods.They have a state-of-the-art-lab and pilot plant where you will be developing these products.

The application engineer is a vital part of the fast-moving biomaterials polymer R&D team.The team is creating the next generation of biomaterials that are biodegradable and carbon neutral.We are using these groundbreaking materials to produce a variety of consumer goods.

The application Engineer will identify and develop technologies and processes to support our strategic product developments in select market segments.You will be working directly with our clients and responsible for gaining insight into their needs and translating them into technical solutions.This is a hands-on role that will require a strong technical background in polymer development and the ability to communicate technical development plans though all levels of the organization.

Responsibilities

• Translate customer and consumer needs into technical solutions and identify critical to quality product characteristics
• Create product roadmaps which identify product characteristics which satisfy minimum viable product performance requirements, as well as future optimized products
• Develop strong technical learning plans based on sound scientific thinking and methodologies
• Create and document test methods for assessing the fitness of a new product
• Identify process technology for new applications to meet company goals and customer specifications.
• Document and communicate key technical developments and insights with the technical and commercial teams
• Partner with external innovation partners to develop new technologies and insights
• Employ design for manufacturing and lean methodologies to develop products efficiently
• Assist Process Engineers in development of process parameters or machine improvements to resolve any quality problems
• Create proof of concepts, prototypes, and minimum viable products to validate product concepts
• Communicate project status and milestones to internal and external stakeholders

Requirements

• B.S. or M.S. Degree in Polymer Chemistry, Material Science, Engineering, or similar discipline.
• 10+ years’ experience in extrusion environment with 5+ years in a customer facing role
• Proven track record in product development with examples of successful product launches
• Hands on experience with extrusion equipment across multiple process types, designing mechanical properties tests and streamlining testing workflows.
• Experience in compounding or melt processing of thermoplastics is a plus.
• Experience in a pilot scale or scale-up environment is highly desirable
• Excellent analytical and physical testing skills with the ability to repair and modify instruments.
• Experience optimizing high-volume experimental/instrumental workflows and demonstrated understanding of basic statistics
• Experience working with biodegradable and compostable products
• Ability to rapidly learn new tests, instruments, and procedures.
• Ability to manage multiple development projects, and working with cross-functional teams
• Proficient in Microsoft Office – organizing and presenting graphical data and concepts
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to travel 15% to 20%