Lead R&D Scientist

The Lead/Senior Scientist is responsible for leading product development and polymer formulation efforts aimed at introducing new products, improving existing products, reducing costs for the wire and cable market. This role sits at the intersection of formulation science, manufacturing, and customer application support, translating laboratory insight into practical, scalable solutions. 

The Lead/Senior Scientist applies sound polymer science, structured experimentation, and scientific curiosity to guide projects from initial concept through validation, while collaborating closely with cross-functional partners across R&D, Quality, Operations, Procurement, and Commercial teams.

This is a hands-on technical leadership role. The Lead/Senior Scientist serves as a project and technical leader, providing guidance and mentorship to Associate Scientists, Development Scientists, and R&D or QA Technicians as needed during project assignments. 

The role requires strong judgment, the ability to prioritize multiple initiatives, and comfort working in laboratory, production, and customer environments. 

What You'll Be Doing:

Product & Technology Development 

• Lead a portfolio of product development and technology improvement projects aligned with business priorities 

• Formulate and optimize polymer compounds for wire and cable applications, including systems such as XLPE, chlorinated polyethylene, low-smoke zero-halogen, and automotive materials 

• Support the full project lifecycle, from idea generation through verification and validation 

• Travel (internal and external) up to 20% may be required, including occasional international travel, to support customer trials, troubleshooting, and technical reviews.

Experimental Design & Data Interpretation 

• Design and execute laboratory testing and structured experiments to evaluate material performance 

• Apply statistical thinking and design of experiments to assess data and guide decisions 

• Utilize analytical tools such as DSC, TGA, rheology, and FTIR to support development work 

Cross-Functional Collaboration 

• Partner with R&D, QA, Operations and technicians to plan and execute work safely and efficiently, ensuring high-quality data and deliverables. 

• Collaborate with Commercial teams and customers to understand application requirements, translate voice-of-customer inputs into technical targets, and support successful product adoption. 

• Host and participate in cross-functional project reviews and technical discussions 

• Occasionally travel to internal and customer locations to support trials, troubleshooting, or technical reviews

Knowledge Development & Communication 

• Prepare clear technical reports and summaries to communicate findings to technical and non-technical audiences 

• Leverage literature research, patents, and internal learnings to generate new project ideas 

• Help convert experimental insight into durable product and process knowledge for the organization 

What You Need to Succeed:

Required Skills/Abilities

• Strong foundation in polymer science and compound formulation

• Ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining focus on priorities and timelines

• Curiosity-driven problem solving with a practical, solutions-oriented mindset

• Comfortable working across laboratory, manufacturing, and customer-facing environments

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Required Qualifications 

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in polymer formulation or the compounding/plastics industry 

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Polymer Technology, or a related discipline 

• Experience with polymer extrusion and compounding processes (e.g., twin-screw extrusion , continuous mixing, kneaders, single-screw extrusion) 

• Experience in industrial product development tools: six sigma, design of experiment, voice of customer  

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship now or in the future 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Background in wire and cable compound development strongly preferred  

• PhD or MS in a scientific discipline 

• Familiarity polyolefins, crosslinked polyolefins, PVC, reactive extrusion, wire and cable, flame retardant thermoplastics 

• Project management experience 

• Global experience 

Why You’ll Love Working Here:

•    Competitive Starting Pay: Competitive hourly base rate depending on experience.
•    Room to Grow: This position offers career advancement opportunities as you learn and grow with us.
•    Team-Oriented Environment: You’ll work in a safety-focused, collaborative, and supportive team.

What We Offer:

•    Premium Pay: Additional pay for qualifying shifts.
•    Comprehensive Benefits: Includes health, dental, 401(k), paid time off, etc..
•    Job Stability: Join a company that's growing and rewards your dedication and hard work.
•    Training and Development: Get the tools and support you need to succeed and advance in your career.

Ready to Start Your Next Adventure?
If you're looking for a rewarding role with great pay and benefits, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today and take the next step in your career with us.