Product Development Engineer

Product Development EngineerReporting to the VP of Technology, the Product Development Engineer will be responsible for all qualification of films and resins from extrusion, through converting, and end use.Job Tasks and ResponsibilitiesNew Product Development and CommercializationSupport product development team in completion of customer trial ordersAssist R&D in completion of laboratory requestsReview trial results as needed and assist with the management of customer projectsSupport external trials at suppliers and customers as needed (travel involved)Process EngineeringSupport manufacturing in completion of new product development activitiesRecommend formula changes based on analysis of quality dataDefine production blends for new specificationsLead troubleshooting of process and formulation issues, root cause definitionMaterials and SuppliersCoordinate trials for alternate suppliers for existing productsLead execution of production formulations for new specificationsKey InteractionsProduct Development Manager/VP of TechnologyQuality ManagerPlant ManagerMaterial SuppliersCustomersRequired Education and Experience and SkillsRequired: Bachelor of Science Chemical Engineering, Material Science Engineering, Polymer Science Engineering, or equivalentAdvanced technical knowledge. Ability to interpret physical property and composition data of polymers.Ability to troubleshoot plastic processing equipment and related defects in the production of thin filmsMust be able to successfully interact and communicate with others.Self-Directed – able to manage multiple projects without significant oversightCoachable and open to feedbackAbility to optimize workflow processes and systemsA strong verbal and written communication skills are a must along with good interpersonal skills.Comfortable in a dynamic work environment where projects can shift mid-year.Key CompetenciesProblem solving - identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutionsCustomer service - responds promptly to customer needs; responds to requests for service and assistance; meets commitmentsJudgment - displays willingness to make decisions; exhibits sound and accurate judgment; makes timely decisionsPlanning/organizing - prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficientlyQuality - demonstrates accuracy and thoroughnessAnalytical capability – demonstrates the ability to work with data accurately and efficientlyProject management – shows initiative to lead and develop an array of projectsDetailed Position ActivitiesTesting (10%)Complete R&D lab testing proficiently – DSC, Heat seal/Hot-Tack, OTR, MicroscopeMain contact for competitive analysisInterpretation and communication of resultsTypical Data Sheets (10%)Using test results, interpret data and develop data sheets for all new product formulationsInsure accuracy of FDA contact status under 21CFR176Materials (10%)Develop understanding of key materials, especially additives and colorsAnalyze price/performance to assess total costTechnical Support (25%)Follow and support manufacturing trials for the product development and process teamsKey contact for new item setup to validate production formulasKey contact for insuring slip, white, etc., scale with thicknessMain contact for scheduling and sequences of Production trialsProvide on site support as neededFundamental Research (20%)Lead 1-2 development projects focused on product improvements or new market development with regard to new materialsOrganize and conduct supplier trials to facilitate DoE completion, analysis, and cost management for R&DMarketing Assistance (10%)Provide data to R&D team with regard to jobs completed monthlyIdentify formulations by market and end-useManage formulations for obsolescenceCustomers (15%)As experience/results dictate, manage small to medium size customer R&D activitySupport lead development engineer on customer visits, trials and project reviewsDiversity and InclusionWe believe in diversity of thought and bringing together other traits and characteristics that make an individual bring a unique experience to Pregis. We strive to foster an inclusive environment where behaviors and social norms ensure people are welcome.Affirmative Action/EEO Statement/InclusionWe offer equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We support inclusion and believe in welcoming a collective sum of individual differences, thoughts, traits, and characteristics to represent Pregis' culture and achievements.