R&D Manager - Polyurethanes & Thermoplastics

At TRCC, innovation isn't just a department. It's part of our DNA. Headquartered in the heart of Northwest Georgia, TRCC has grown from its roots as a latex supplier to the tufted carpet industry into a global leader in advanced chemical solutions, with a footprint that spans every continent. As we continue shaping the future through research, technology, and sustainable chemistry, we’re looking for curious minds and bold thinkers to join our world-class R&D team. Located in Dalton, Georgia which is proudly known as the “Carpet Capital of the World”. The area offers an exceptional quality of life, combining scenic beauty, a low cost of living, thriving communities, and convenient access to both Atlanta and Chattanooga. It’s a place where professionals can build rewarding careers while enjoying a balanced lifestyle. If you're passionate about discovery, driven by problem-solving, and eager to make a real impact across industries, you’ll find a vibrant, supportive home at TRCC, where innovation thrives and people truly matter.

We are currently hiring for an experienced R&D Manager in our Polyurethane & Thermoplastics lab who will manage and direct the research and development (R&D) programs to meet organizational needs and capitalize on potential new products and sustain current products with new technology.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Employee must pass a fitness for duty test, drug screen and submit to a TB test on a post offer employment physical.
• Oversees R&D employees in the Polyurethane and Thermoplastic areas.
• Oversees schedules and assignments for the department.
• Conducts performance evaluations that are timely and constructive.
• Handles discipline and termination of employees as needed and in accordance with company policy.
• Works with CCO to develop R&D operating budget.
• Delivers progress and reports to CCO as requested.
• Provides new innovative ideas and transforms them into commercialization concepts and presents them to management team and customers.
• Provides technical support for product development and commercialization of new and current products for the manufacturing department.
• Ability to formulate and modify products based on customer needs.
• Develops process specification and ensures training and transfer of scientific knowledge to QA and operations.
• Creates accurate product profile and specifications for products and raw materials.
• Provides support for documentation, labelling, and regulatory compliance.
• Supports R&D members with identification of ingredients and sourcing.
• Follow safety protocols and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Performs other related duties as necessary or assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of PU Chemistry and Applications (10 years of experience in this area with proven innovation track record) with a primary focus on research & formulation development that directly leads to new product commercialization.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and industry standards.
• Familiarity with advanced engineering software and tools used in product design and analysis.
• Proven track record of driving innovation and bringing new products to market successfully.
• Experience in developing and implementing product development strategies that result in improved performance and competitive advantage.
• Ability to present complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Results-driven with a focus on meeting project timelines and delivering high-quality products.
• Self-starter that can work independently and manage a team of chemists/technicians.
• Excellent communicator that will present progress and plans on a timely basis, acts as a key contributor to the Technical/Commercial/Operational collaborations.
• Ideally a strong manager that can mentor and motivate the PU lab personnel.
• Solid interpersonal skills allowing for critical customer interactions.
• Ability to quickly identify and develop solutions to technical problems.
• Available to travel, on a limited basis both domestically and internationally, in order to provide technical support.
• Working knowledge of SAP.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant fields, required.
• Minimum of 10 years experience in specialty chemical research and development required.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk while using a computer and phone.
• Prolonged periods of standing while working at the lab workbench.
• Work typically performed in a temperature controlled and noise-controlled environment.
• The job is normally performed in a quiet environment; however, there can be unexpected, sudden loud noises, beeping backup alarms, flashing lights and sudden movements.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times by lifting, pulling or pushing.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds by reaching above the shoulders.
• Must be able to pass a respirator certification and wear different types of respiratory equipment.

Work Schedule

• Monday - Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• Work environment is on site. Remote work not offered for this position.

Pay Range

• Pay range is based on verifiable experience and education level.

Benefits (effective after 30 days except as noted below)

• Medical (3 plans offered)
• Dental (2 plans offered)
• Vision
• Long Term Disability
• Basic Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Health Savings Account
• 401(k) (can begin contribution upon hire)
• 401(k) matching (upon hire)
• Paid time available

The completion of a TRCC application will be required to be considered for the position. Any incomplete applications will not be considered. Submitting a resume in lieu of an application is not acceptable, and incomplete applications will not be considered.

The company is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. Please, no phone calls or emails from search firms. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at TRCC via email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of TRCC. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by TRCC as a result of the referral or through other means.