Research and Development Lead

The R&D Lead is responsible for designing, building, modifying, troubleshooting, repairing, maintaining, and improving electrical and mechanical equipment across all manufacturing and distribution facilities. This role manages capital and expense project installations with safety as the foremost priority. The position requires advanced technical expertise in electrical systems, PLC programming, mechanical fabrication, and CAD design.

Responsibilities:

• The R&D lead must be able to read blueprints, bills of materials, schematics, and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), select, measure, and prepare electrical wiring or coaxial cabling.
• Must Be Able to use AutoCAD Electrical to Create Drawings and Schematics, and SolidWorks to create solid models for machines and parts.
• Must be able to write and understand PLC, HMI, and VFD Programs: layout, wire panels, and the entire machine.
• Orders parts & assembles, installs & tests electrical wiring in control panels, manufacturing equipment, & other devices.
• Must understand and follow NFPA70, NFPA70B, NFPA70E, & NFPA79, and OSHA when laying out, designing, and wiring machines and panels.
• Weld & Fabricate Parts.
• Perform Work orders and maintain all documentation associated with the work order system.
• Must have an excellent understanding of electrical controls from 24vdc up to 480vac and have a basic understanding of pneumatics & hydraulics.
• Independently performs a wide range of complex duties. Has achieved full proficiency in a broad range of job-related activities. This position requires working on projects with the maintenance staff and the shop floor.
• Receive verbal directions from others regarding operations and assignments to be performed.
• Assist and train R&D and maintenance employees in their job duties.
• All work is to be performed in accordance with all mandated Federal, State, Local, and company Safety Regulations.
• Other tasks as directed by the manager.

Minimum Qualifications:

• You must be able to stand for at least 10 hours.
• Regular and on-time attendance.
• Must be able to lift and carry work-in-process, which could weigh 50 pounds.
• Good vision
• Perform all work in accordance with the Codes and in a neat and workmanlike manner.
• All work to be performed while adhering to all mandated Federal, State, Local, and company Safety Regulations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required to convey and interpret problem explanations and to receive and understand work assignments.
• Excellent motor skills (hand/eye coordination) are necessary for the use of the equipment used in this job.
• Requires a high school diploma or graduation from a technical or trade school.
• Must have 10 years of manufacturing/industrial wiring, mechanical, & fabrication experience.
• Clean all areas where work is performed of material, parts, oil, grease, etc.
• Research and document the storeroom's inventory of needed supplies.
• Must always interact with employees professionally.

Equipment Used: (Machines, devices, tools, personal protective equipment, used on this job):

• Computer and software for programming PLC, and HMI  Calipers, micrometers, electric test equipment including DMMs, threaders, drill presses, grinders, welding equipment, saws, cutters, hoists, power-driven trucks, shears, & related items., Steel-toed shoes, safety glasses, ear protection, face shield, welding hood, sleeves, and safety gloves.

Job Location/Surroundings/Environment

• All Manufacturing and Distribution facilities. Noise levels require the use of earplugs. Due to noise levels, verbal communication may be difficult at times. The area is not air-conditioned. The floor is concrete with no floor covering.

Testing:

• Testing will consist of written and extensive verbal questioning covering all the skills and trades required for this function.
• Appropriate schematic reading and creating.
• Appropriate blueprint reading.
• Hands-on and written Electrical Testing.
• Hands-on and written PLC testing.
• Hands-on Welding test.

Who is M-D? 

At M-D Building Products, we're not just redefining industry standards; we're shaping the future of construction solutions. For over a century, our name has been synonymous with excellence in weatherstripping, floor and tile trims, perforated aluminum sheets, digital levels, and caulking solutions. What truly sets us apart is our people! They are the heartbeat of our success. We believe in the potential of every individual to make a meaningful impact. From the factory floor to the boardroom, we cultivate a culture rooted in integrity, innovation, and unwavering commitment. As a trusted leader in the construction industry, we are driven by a passion for continuous improvement and excellence.

Benefits: 

M-D Building Products, Inc. offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health and well-being of our employees. This includes Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, access to an On-Site Clinic, and Voluntary Life Insurance options. Additionally, we offer a Lab Card Program, Group Term Life & AD&D, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for both healthcare and dependent care, and Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage. Employees can also take advantage of our 401(K) plan with Company Match, Paid Time Off (PTO), Tuition Reimbursement, and Education & Development programs. We prioritize mental wellness through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and offer a range of Voluntary Benefits, including Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance. 

At M-D Building Products, Inc., we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. We strictly prohibit discrimination based on race, religion, creed, color, national origin, nationality, citizenship, ancestry, sex, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, genetic predisposition, or any other characteristic protected by law.