Global Director Research Development Engineering

Global Director Research Development Engineering (R&D & ENG)

Location: Clinton TN (Onsite)
Travel: Domestic and International Travel Required
Reports To: Director Business Development

Build the Future of Innovation at Dura-Line

Dura-Line an Orbia business is seeking an experienced Global Research & Development (R&D) Director to lead our global R&D organization and drive the next generation of materials products and technologies supporting critical infrastructure markets.

This role will provide technical and strategic leadership across product development materials science testing qualification commercialization and innovation initiatives. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise in polymers and plastics with strong leadership capabilities business acumen and a passion for developing high-performing teams.

About Orbia Connectivity Solutions Dura-Line:

Join DuraLine an Orbia Connectivity Solutions business where we create solutions that connect people and information across the globe. As a leading global manufacturer of conduit products and accessories DuraLine creates the pathways that power connectivity across a wide range of markets worldwide. Quality safety and sustainability are at the core of everything we do with environmentally responsible practices embedded throughout our manufacturing processes. Be part of our shared mission with Orbia to Advance Life Around the World.

What Youll Do

• Lead product material formulation and technology development from concept through commercialization.

• Establish and execute the global R&D strategy aligned to business objectives and growth initiatives.

• Make final technical decisions related to materials testing product qualification specifications and launch readiness.

• Direct and develop a team of R&D professionals while building technical capability across the organization.

• Manage a global portfolio of innovation projects balancing priorities resources risks and budgets.

• Partner closely with Operations Quality Engineering Procurement Commercial Product Management and executive leadership.

• Drive product performance improvements manufacturing scale-up and process optimization initiatives.

• Collaborate with suppliers testing laboratories certification agencies customers and industry partners.

• Translate complex technical findings into actionable business recommendations and executive-level communications.

• Assess laboratory capabilities technical resources and innovation priorities to establish a roadmap for future growth.

What Success Looks Like

During the first few months this leader will:

• Build relationships with key stakeholders and assess team capabilities.

• Review the R&D project portfolio laboratory operations testing methods and technical priorities.

• Evaluate critical risks resource allocation and development processes.

• Establish a strategic roadmap to strengthen innovation execution and business impact.

Required Qualifications

• Masters degree or Ph.D. in Polymer Science Chemical Engineering Materials Science Engineering or related discipline.

• 15 years of progressive experience in industrial R&D polymers materials engineering product development extrusion or related technical leadership roles.

• Experience leading technical teams and developing organizational capability.

• Demonstrated success commercializing new products and technologies.

• Strong expertise in thermoplastics polyethylene extrusion compounding manufacturing processes and materials performance.

• Experience utilizing testing methodologies DOE statistical analysis and data-driven decision-making.

• Proven ability to influence cross-functional teams and communicate effectively with senior leadership.

• Experience supporting global operations and international teams.

• Experience in infrastructure plastics materials manufacturing telecommunications power utility or related industries.

JOIN OUR GROWING TEAM TODAY!

As part of Orbia Connectivity Solutions Dura-Line offers an exciting work environment and career opportunities in a continuously growing company. We are committed to attracting developing and retaining a diverse workforce that reflects our global customer base.

Acquisition based on this vacancy is not appreciated and unsolicited applications from third parties will not be accepted .

The compensation package may also include short and long-term incentive compensation. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes healthcare coverage a 401(k)-retirement savings plan paid company holidays paid vacation time paid sick time parental leave short- and long-term disability leave tuition reimbursement and an employee assistance program. At Orbia we are committed to taking care of our employees and believe in providing comprehensive support so you can thrive at work and home.

Orbia is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion sex sexual orientation gender identity or expression marital status national origin age disability genetic information veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal state or local law.