R&D Engineer

The R&D Engineer is responsible for the development and optimization of thermoplastic and thermoset extrusion and injection molding processes.

A core part of this role involves investigating and researching cutting-edge processing techniques and technologies by travelling to conferences and equipment manufacturers.

The R&D Engineer evaluates product feasibility as part of the Gate Process, playing a pivotal role in scaling products from concept to pilot production.

This role demands a balance between hands-on lab work, technical analysis, and cross-functional collaboration to drive product development.

Requirements

• Lead R&D efforts in the development, refinement, and scale-up of thermoplastic and thermoset extrusion and injection molding processes.
• Conduct in-depth research into innovative and emerging polymer processing technologies, identifying new techniques that can be integrated into current and future projects.
• Investigate advanced materials, equipment, and methodologies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product performance.
• Design and execute rigorous experiments, applying scientific principles to test new processing techniques and optimize existing ones.
• Evaluate product feasibility within the Gate Process, providing technical insights and data to inform R&D decisions and drive new product development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., production, quality control) to ensure smooth scaling from lab to pilot production, with a focus on efficiency and product quality.
• Develop and optimize formulations for processing, ensuring compatibility with manufacturing processes while meeting product specifications.
• Perform equipment setup, troubleshooting, maintenance, and process modifications to support research and development efforts.
• Continuously monitor and adjust process parameters to ensure consistency, scalability, and quality control.
• Maintain comprehensive and detailed documentation of research findings, process conditions, and experimental results.
• Develop innovative solutions that reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable practices throughout the product lifecycle.
• Implement process improvements and drive efficiency gains to optimize resource use and reduce operating costs.
• Prioritize the use of sustainable materials and work to minimize waste in both the development process and final product, contributing to circular economy initiatives.
• Prepare and deliver technical reports and presentations that communicate research outcomes, feasibility study results, and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols, GMP standards, and company policies, fostering a culture of safety in the lab and production environments.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, advancements in polymer materials, and new processing technologies, contributing to the company's thought leadership in polymer innovation.
• Provide mentorship to your peers, sharing knowledge and fostering a collaborative research environment.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in polymer processing, with a focus on thermoplastic and thermoset extrusion and injection molding.
• Strong background in R&D, with proven experience investigating and implementing innovative processing techniques and technologies.
• Hands-on experience in a laboratory or pilot plant setting, with the ability to lead real-world research projects from concept to implementation.
• Proficiency in designing and executing experiments, particularly in polymer material processing and scientific research.
• Strong knowledge of polymer materials, advanced processing technologies, and quality control standards.
• Experience conducting feasibility studies, providing data-driven insights to support new product development.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to innovate and apply creative solutions to complex technical challenges.
• Ability to manage multiple research projects simultaneously, balancing theoretical investigation with practical, hands-on work.
• Strong communication skills, capable of presenting technical data and research outcomes to diverse audiences, including technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional weekends or evenings.