Material Science Engineer III

Position Summary

The Material Science Engineer III leads material testing development, innovation, and process optimization while collaborating with cross-functional teams. This role requires advanced technical expertise in material characterization and customer engagement as well as DOE execution.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and modification of complex testing procedures to evaluate prototype and production parts.
• Conduct advanced raw material testing, using a range of equipment (Instron 3365, SEM, CMM, etc.) to ensure all criteria are met.
• Independently create and execute shelf-life profiles that simulate real-world product scenarios for long-term testing and optimization.
• Independently create, execute, and analyze detailed DOEs, ensuring material performance, strength, and shelf-life are accurately tested.
• Lead interactions with the customer, sales, platform managers, and internal teams to align project goals with customer success criteria and production requirements.
• Lead the presentation of findings, including major discoveries, experimental data, and next steps to guide project progress.
• Define and validate spray coating parameters, ensuring that prototypes meet functional and quality standards for mass production.
• Take full responsibility for capturing and presenting data in reports, including photos and videos to communicate technical results effectively.
• Lead efforts in refining and optimizing material and coating processes to ensure product performance and quality.
• Perform any other tasks assigned by the manager to ensure the successful execution of projects.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Advanced knowledge of material science research methodologies, data modeling, and statistical analysis.
• Expertise in Design of Experiments (DOE) and process optimization.
• Deep understanding of material properties and performance evaluation.
• Ability to provide expert recommendations based on complex research results.
• Strong technical writing skills to deliver comprehensive, data-driven reports.
• Advanced ability to analyze and interpret large, complex data sets.
• Proficiency in leading experimental design and executing DOE strategies.
• Strong presentation skills for communicating with senior leadership and clients.
• Ability to independently manage and prioritize multiple high-level projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Food Science, required (Master's preferred)
• Expertise in chemistry, including fiber chemistry, slurry chemistry, basic chemistry skills.
• Considered an expert in either wet end chemistry or coating technology.
• Knowledgeable of developments within molded fiber industry.
• 5 - 8 years of work experience in degree-related position.
• Prior experience working in a manufacturing environment.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, prescription, dental, and vision care plans as well as HSA / FSA accounts.

• Insurance Protection: Basic term life, accidentals, short- and long-term disability, and voluntary life insurance coverage.
• Financial Security: Short and long-term disability plans, along with a 401(k) retirement plan.
• Time Off Support: Flexible time off program, paid holidays, sick leave, and parental leave benefits.
• Lifestyle Benefit: Voluntary Pet Insurance.