Lead environmentally-focused New Product Development and manufacturing support projects for decorative plating on plastic; hands-on role
Well established mid-size private company – technology leader
Friendly and cheerful culture, high loyalty, low turnover
Highly visible, vital role - succession position for retiring key employee
What You’ll Do:
Become an expert in the Company’s current technologies and applications by shadowing the current Electroplating Chemist of 25 years to ensure a stable succession plan.
Develop best-in-class R&D methods and processes to eventually lead the company in Electroplated Coating technology methods and procedures.
Provide support to manufacturing for troubleshooting when needed.
Propose & lead future R&D activities to expand existing product portfolio, maintain and enhance the Company’s position as the leading innovator in the industry.
Collaborate with Customers, Suppliers, & Industry Groups to ensure successful scale-up, launch, and commercialization of new product developments.
Stay abreast of emerging technologies, regulatory changes, and potential market opportunities.
The Profile:
PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Corrosion, Metallurgy, or similar is REQUIRED.
1+ years industrial (non-academic) experience REQUIRED, including direct experience in electroplating.
Strong background in Inorganic Chemistry and/or Electrochemistry preferred.
Solid understanding of polymer and metal surface modification and characterization preferred
Comfortable with analytical methodologies, such as HPLC, GC, FT-IR, IC, UV absorption spectroscopy.
Enjoy being an individual subject matter expert (vs. managing a large team) – this role is a technical track rather than management track, although future supervisory responsibility is possible.
Adaptable, flexible, with a “Do what it takes” attitude, comfortable in a mid-size company vs. a big corporate culture
Strong execution and project management skills - you enjoy spearheading initiatives, taking ownership of projects, and influencing/leading others to successful outcomes. Stage Gate or other formal project management experience very helpful
Cheerful, friendly, and collaborative disposition.
Willing to live/relocate to the Grand Rapids, MI area.
