Product Development Engineer

Product Development EngineerPosition DescriptionReporting to the VP of Technology, the Product Development Engineer will be responsible for all qualification of films and resins from extrusion, through converting, and end use.

Job Tasks and ResponsibilitiesNew Product Development and Commercialization

Support product development team in completion of customer trial ordersAssist R&D in completion of laboratory requestsReview trial results as needed and assist with the management of customer projectsSupport external trials at suppliers and customers as needed (travel involved)

Process Engineering

Support manufacturing in completion of new product development activitiesRecommend formula changes based on analysis of quality dataDefine production blends for new specificationsLead troubleshooting of process and formulation issues, root cause definition

Materials and Suppliers

Coordinate trials for alternate suppliers for existing productsLead execution of production formulations for new specifications

Key Interactions

Product Development Manager/VP of TechnologyQuality ManagerPlant ManagerMaterial SuppliersCustomers

Required Education and Experience and Skills

Required: Bachelor of Science Chemical Engineering, Material Science Engineering, Polymer Science Engineering, or equivalentAdvanced technical knowledge. Ability to interpret physical property and composition data of polymers.Ability to troubleshoot plastic processing equipment and related defects in the production of thin filmsMust be able to successfully interact and communicate with others.Self-Directed - able to manage multiple projects without significant oversightCoachable and open to feedbackAbility to optimize workflow processes and systemsA strong verbal and written communication skills are a must along with good interpersonal skills.Comfortable in a dynamic work environment where projects can shift mid-year.

Key Competencies

Problem solving - identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutionsCustomer service - responds promptly to customer needs; responds to requests for service and assistance; meets commitmentsJudgment - displays willingness to make decisions; exhibits sound and accurate judgment; makes timely decisionsPlanning/organizing - prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficientlyQuality - demonstrates accuracy and thoroughnessAnalytical capability - demonstrates the ability to work with data accurately and efficientlyProject management - shows initiative to lead and develop an array of projects

Detailed Position Activities

Testing (10%)

Complete R&D lab testing proficiently - DSC, Heat seal/Hot-Tack, OTR, MicroscopeMain contact for competitive analysisInterpretation and communication of results

Typical Data Sheets (10%)

Using test results, interpret data and develop data sheets for all new product formulationsInsure accuracy of FDA contact status under 21CFR176

Materials (10%)

Develop understanding of key materials, especially additives and colorsAnalyze price/performance to assess total cost

Technical Support (25%)

Follow and support manufacturing trials for the product development and process teamsKey contact for new item setup to validate production formulasKey contact for insuring slip, white, etc., scale with thicknessMain contact for scheduling and sequences of Production trials

Provide on site support as needed

Fundamental Research (20%)

Lead 1-2 development projects focused on product improvements or new market development with regard to new materialsOrganize and conduct supplier trials to facilitate DoE completion, analysis, and cost management for R&D

Marketing Assistance (10%)

Provide data to R&D team with regard to jobs completed monthlyIdentify formulations by market and end-useManage formulations for obsolence

Customers (15%)

As experience/results dictate, manage small to medium size customer R&D activitySupport lead development engineer on customer visits, trials and project reviews

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