Research and Development Materials Engineer, Automotive and Specialty Coatings

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Date: Dec 1, 2023

Location: Lancaster, SC, US

Company: AkzoNobel

We’ve been pioneering a world of possibilities to bring surfaces to life for well over 200 years. As experts in making coatings, there’s a good chance you’re only ever a few meters away from one of our products. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. We’re active in more than 150 countries and have set our sights on becoming the global industry leader. It’s what you’d expect from the most sustainable paints company, which has been inventing the future for more than two centuries.

Job Purpose

This position will develop and support New Product Development projects with specific emphasis on the use of novel composite materials  and plastics for Film Paint application. Will prepare, execute and analyze research elements as well as improve existing and develop new research methodology in alignment with the Research and Development strategy, project, and functional standards.

Key Accountabilities

  • Ensure the successful delivery of new products from development to commercialization.  Will Interface with all functions such as Marketing, Integrated Supply Chain, and Sales on the industrialization of new products,  raw materials, packagings  and recipe changes ensuring that changes on site are controlled and managed.
  • Conduct research and development of new products, new technologies, and updates of existing products using innovative ideas, materials, and test methods.  Will use accepted techniques including Design of Experiments, Failure Mode and Effect Analysis, Statistical Process Control, and others as required.
  • Provide technical assistance and support to Production, Sales, and Marketing in support of product scale-up, quality control, application testing, and other cross-functional activities
  • Maintains detailed technical records in the laboratory notebook or computer databases.  Will also provide progress reports, monthly and quarterly reports, technical plans, and project summaries to ensure appropriate communication of project status and needs
  • Oversee specific functions and/or locations as required.  Will also supervise and coach junior employees.

Job Requirements

  • Education and Experience must include one of the following:
    • Bachelor of Science in Materials Science, Engineering or related field with 10+ years relevant experience in a coatings or chemical manufacturing environment.
    • Master of Science in Materials Science, Engineering or related field with 3-6 years relevant experience in a coatings or chemical manufacturing environment.
    • Doctor of Philosophy in Materials Science, Engineering or related field with 2-4 years relevant experience in a coatings or chemical manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to interpret data and develop insights based on knowledge of chemical structures and reactivity, propose, and test hypotheses.  Must be able to summarize, organize and present data in graphical and tabular formats.
  • Maintain a safe and clear work environment in accordance with company safety rules to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local safety and environmental regulations.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office.  Experience with Microsoft Project required.
  • Prior supervisory skills and experience.
  • Must be fluent in English.

Total Compensation

The base salary range for these skills is $105,000 - $115,000.  This is the range that we in good faith anticipate relying on when setting wages for this position.  We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range.  This salary range may also be modified in the future.

 

Perks for Joining AkzoNobel!  
Medical insurance with HSA • Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D benefits • Annual bonus • 401K retirement savings with 6% company match • Generous vacation, personal and holiday pay • Paid Parental leave • Hybrid work for most exempt roles • Active Diversity and Inclusion Networks • Career growth opportunities on a regional and global scale • Tuition Reimbursement • Career growth opportunities • Employee referral bonus 

 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status.

Requisition ID: 33732 

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