This position is responsible for the planning, direction, and coordination for the development of innovative non-woven products for a broad range of applications. Specific areas of focus will include wet-laid non-wovens formed from engineering fibers and bonding systems. Products will be developed starting from laboratory hand sheets to in-house pilot trials to production scale qualification runs. Development work will concentrate on innovative solutions to market needs, with the accompanying goal of establishing a strong intellectual property base. Ancillary programs related to product enhancements, cost reductions, etc. will be required at times.
- Maintain a “Safety First” attitude in the performance of all tasks.
- Must be knowledgeable in the effective use of Lean Continuous Improvement (LCI) tools and concepts to assist in process improvements, both within Lydall, and externally at our customers/suppliers. Serve as an active participant in LCI programs.
- Work with Marketing and Operations to develop products to meet customer requirements for new business opportunities.
- Use project management tools when appropriate.
- Coordinate and lead production trials of new and modified products. Supervise Pilot scale trials when appropriate.
- Draft internal and customer specs for developed products.
- Assist Quality Assurance in evaluating and resolving unusual, non-routine customer complaints.
- Provide technical assistance to Manufacturing concerning unusual, non-routine situations.
- Work with Purchasing and Manufacturing in the evaluation of new sources of raw materials, product improvements and/or cost reductions.
- Prepare and distribute appropriate reports to document technical findings, following ISO requirements.
- Evaluate competitive products as needed.
- Assist in the preparation of patent applications for new technologies.
- Supervise, train, evaluate, develop and coach technical staff. This includes conducting annual performance appraisals for all direct reports.
- Coordination of time and attendance system / labor reporting. Daily approval of time and attendance punches including pay codes.
Other:
- Must adhere to all company and location policies and safety rules
- Must be able to work extended hours when required
- All other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
- BS in Paper Science or Chemical Engineering preferred, chemical engineering or material science considered.
- Five to seven years of industrial experience.
- Normal travel requirements should not exceed 20 percent.
- Ability to work in cross-functional teams within the facility as well as throughout the company
- Ability to organize, manage, and control workflow
- Ability to meet deadlines despite conflicting priorities
- Proficiency with a variety of software applications, such as Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Office
- Strong verbal, written, analytical, presentation and interpersonal skills
- Supervisory skills to manage at least one technician.