Technical Director - Rubber Mixing

Working at Freudenberg: "We will wow your world!" This is our promise. As a global technology group, we not only make the world cleaner, healthier and more comfortable, but also offer our 52,000 employees a networked and diverse environment where everyone can thrive individually. Be surprised and experience your own wow moments.

We at Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies run the business operations of Freudenberg Sealing Technologies (FST) in the Americas. Being part of the global Freudenberg Group, our company is a leading producer of advanced sealing technologies for automotive and general industries. Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies is a joint venture between Freudenberg and NOK Corp. in Japan, is headquartered in Plymouth, MI, operates more than 20 facilities and employs about 4,700 people across the Americas.

Some of your Benefits

401K Match: Save for retirement with the company's help.

Diversity & Inclusion: We focus on providing an inclusive environment and recognize our diversity contributes to our success.

Health Insurance: Rely on comprehensive services whenever you need it.

Paid Holidays: With paid-time off, local holidays are all the way more relaxing.

Vacation: We offer time off to refresh and recharge.

Bristol, NH

Shelbyville, IN

Hybrid Work

Freudenberg-NOK General Partnership

Technical Director - Rubber Mixing

Responsibilities

• Strategic Development:
• Contribute to the development of financial and technological goals through the AOP and STRAP processes.
• Identify and develop innovative processes to support the LC vision and long-term direction.
• Design and execute plans via PDM to achieve organizational short, mid, and long-term goals; regularly review performance and initiate corrective actions as needed.
• Technical Expertise:
• Apply specialist and detailed technical expertise to develop existing and introduce new processes.
• Lead the execution of the Technical Roadmap.
• Research new technologies and trends to significantly improve process and commercial performance.
• Ensure appropriate consideration of manufacturing capabilities, product and material application, and tool design standards during the design process.
• Leadership and Management:
• Develop and communicate clear performance and behavior expectations.
• Set motivating and ambitious goals and targets for self and team.
• Evaluate employees regularly, provide constructive feedback, and facilitate growth.
• Motivate and coach individuals and teams to achieve required performance and behavior standards.
• Global Strategy:
• Develop and realize the Global FST Rubber Mixing technology strategy.
• Harmonize Global FST Rubber Mixing technologies, including processing, layout, new technologies, and materials.
• Initiate and coordinate projects across multiple divisions and business groups to improve marketability, quality, and cost.
• Oversight and Coordination:
• Direct oversight of the LC Rubber Mixing – Process Information Technology staff.
• Lead through influence engineering colleagues who are not direct reports.
  
  

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a relevant field (e.g., Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science).
• Minimum of 10 years of industry experience in rubber, polymer, or compounding manufacturing.
• Proven leadership experience in a technical or engineering role.
• Experience in developing and implementing process innovations and technological strategies.
• In-depth knowledge of rubber mixing technologies, including processing, layout, new technologies, and materials.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing capabilities, product and material application, and tool design standards.
• Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
• Lean Systems Black Belt certification.
• Communication & Collaboration: Communicates clearly and concisely, while engaging proactively with colleagues at all levels of the organization.
• Value for Customers: Anticipates, understands and meets internal/external customers’ needs and expectations. Develops solutions based on a customer centric approach.
• Innovation: Drives and supports innovative ideas, while taking informed risks to seek and develop new or improved solutions.
• Drive & Execution: Proactively identifies what needs to be done and takes action. Explores new ways and pursues new opportunities.
  
  

The Freudenberg Group is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion. Employment opportunities are available to all applicants and associates without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, mental or physical disability, genetic information, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.