R&D Operations Manager

Wilmington Innovation Center R&D Operations Manager

We are seeking an R&D Operations Manager to manage and maintain standards of excellence for the primary R&D lab for AZEK Building Products located in Wilmington, OH.

The R&D Operations Manager utilizes good lab practices (GLP) and AZEK standards to maintain the AZEK R&D lab both safely and efficiently throughout the day-to-day operations. This management includes the development and procedures associated with safe operation of equipment, personnel, and standards to maintain an organized and efficient laboratory environment. This position has full leadership responsibility for a team of lab technicians driving a high-performing, collaborative culture centered on safety, quality, and continuous improvement. The R&D Operations Manager leads lab projects to ensure the completion of lab test requests in coordination with on-site lab personnel, other AZEK labs and 3rd party testing labs.

• Provide direct leadership, coaching, and performance management to a team of R&D lab technicians to ensure alignment with AZEK’s standards, safety policies, and operational goals
• Responsible for all aspects of the R&D lab; lab personnel, equipment, supplies, software & documentation
• Maintains a high level of organization and awareness throughout the lab, data access and updates on high priority projects should be readily available
• Trains lab technicians in the correct use of lab equipment, ensuring proper procedures are followed
• Mentors & disciplines lab personnel with accordance to company standards and expectations; planning, monitoring, and regular appraisals of lab personnel
• Follows and enforces industry standards and safety regulations as it relates to testing, sample preparation and disposal
• Schedules and optimizes lab or equipment use time for both lab personnel and other AZEK employees
• Work collaboratively with R&D, Process Engineering, Operations, and business partners to establish and plan for future capabilities
• Manages the upkeep of the laboratory, lab supplies and equipment, including maintenance and calibration of instrumentation & equipment along with required PPE for all lab personnel
• Ensures the accuracy, security and accessibility of all data collected in the R&D laboratory
• Optimizes and improves laboratory workflow to improve efficiency and accuracy of work, considering the lab personnel
• Utilizes data-driven analytics to provide reports centered around the lab efficiency, resource demands and bottlenecks
• Implements new programs, tests, methods, instrumentation, equipment, and procedures; including all training and documentation associated with safe operation
• Coordinates with 3rd party testing organizations and other AZEK testing labs to conduct required testing and seamless
• Coordinate with operations, quality assurance, product compliance and vendors as needed to ensure compliance with standards
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
  
  

Required Experience

• BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or an equivalent science-based degree with five years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Minimum experience of 3-5 years leading a large team of technicians, expanding capabilities and coordinating support for R&D teams.
• Proven problem-solving skills and experience in a laboratory setting.
• Strong management and interpersonal skills with proven ability to communicate well with various audiences and situations
• General knowledge of polymer and composite properties along with standard test methods and analysis
• Experience with mechanical testing as it associates with building products or structural materials
• Understanding and interpretation of ASTM Standards and their application
• Strong mechanical aptitude as it associates with standard laboratory equipment (maintenance, upgrades, installation)
• Experience with document control centered around laboratory documents and procedures
• Willing to direct and receive direction from others
• Must have good multi-tasking skills and be flexible to shifting priorities
  
  

Preferred

• Master’s Degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering and 5 years of relevant experience in a lab management position with a wide spectrum of testing instrumentation and procedures
  
  

Minimum Education Requirements BS/BA Degree Or Equivalent

Percent of Travel Required Less than 25%

Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several geographic markets. The annual salary for this position ranges from $116,500 in our lowest market up to $143,500 in our highest market, plus bonus, equity, and benefits as applicable. The pay for roles at AZEK varies depending on a wide range of factors including but not limited to the specific work location, role, skill set, and level of experience.

AZEK provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, short- and long-term disability, a 401(k) plan, an employee stock purchase program, and a variety of additional voluntary benefit options. For more details, please visit Benefits @ AZEK or Benefits @ AZEK (Spanish Version).

Are you concerned that you don’t meet every requirement listed above? Don't let that stop you from applying! Studies reveal that some applicants refrain from applying for jobs unless they fulfill every single requirement. We don't believe in the notion of a "perfect" candidate. If you are confident in your ability to excel in the role, adapt swiftly, and are committed to contributing to our mission of building a more sustainable future, we warmly welcome your application.

The AZEK Company Was Acquired By James Hardie.

James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with brands including Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®. With 8,000 employees worldwide, we’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities. For more information, visit www.jameshardie.com.

Following The AZEK Company’s acquisition by James Hardie, we remain committed to providing a fair and equitable employment experience for all candidates.

Join us in shaping the future of our business!