R&D Engineer Scientist

Nylon Lead R&D Scientist (Polymer Chemistry & Process Technology Focus)Position SummaryThe Nylon Lead R&D Scientist serves as a technical leader driving polymer chemistry innovation and process technology advancement for nylon (polyamide) systems. This role is responsible for developing deep molecular-level understanding and translating it into robust scalable process solutions that improve manufacturing performance product quality and cost responsibilities include new product development (NPD) and commercialization aligned with business strategy with a strong emphasis on accelerating research cycles through advanced data analytics and AI-enabled Responsibilities1. Polymer Chemistry Leadership (Primary Focus)Lead design and execution of polyamide synthesis reactions including batch and continuous polymerization deep understanding of structureproperty relationships to tailor polymer performance for target advanced analytical techniques (e.g. rheology DSC GPC IR NMR) to characterize materials and guide innovation in polymer modification copolymerization and additive incorporation to enable differentiated as subject matter expert in polyamide chemistry organic chemistry and analytical chemistry across the organization.2. Process Technology & Scale-Up (Primary Focus)Lead development and optimization of polymerization and downstream processing technologies (extrusion compounding molding).Translate laboratory discoveries into pilot and commercial-scale processes ensuring consistency yield and cost technical leadership in process modeling troubleshooting and process improvement with plant engineering and production teams to:Improve conversion efficiency throughput and energy intensityResolve process limitations and variabilityEnable reliable and repeatable manufacturing performanceApply statistical tools (Six Sigma DOE) to drive process robustness and variability reduction.3. AI-Enabled Experimental Design & Research Acceleration (Key Differentiator)Leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning tools to:Design optimized Designs of Experiments (DOE)Identify critical variables and interactions faster than traditional approachesPredict polymer properties and process outcomesDevelop and deploy data-driven experimentation frameworks to reduce research cycle time and increase success experimental data process data and analytical results into predictive models that guide improve R&D efficiency through:Automated data analysis workflowsDigital lab tools and experiment tracking systemsDemonstrated history of using advanced analytics or AI methods to accelerate root cause analysis and experimental iteration cycles (aligned with structured DOE approaches observed internally).4. New Product Development & Commercialization (Secondary Focus)Lead development of new nylon materials and applications from concept through with marketing commercial and customer teams to translate voice-of-customer (VOC) into technical Stage-Gate execution for NPD projects including:Feasibility studiesPilot validationScale-up and commercializationDeliver differentiated products aligned with market needs and profitability targets.5. Technical Leadership & CollaborationLead cross-functional teams across R&D Process Engineering Manufacturing and Commercial and develop scientists and engineers in polymer science and process technology as a technical advisor for complex problem solving including customer issues and plant to intellectual property development including patents and trade QualificationsPh.D. (preferred) or Masters degree in Polymer Chemistry Polymer Science Materials Science or Chemical Engineering.5 years of experience in polymer R&D with emphasis on polyamide (nylon) experience in:Polymer synthesis and characterizationProcess development and scale-upCommercialization of new materialsPreferred QualificationsDeep expertise in polyamide chemistry and polymerization with polymer processing technologies (extrusion compounding molding).Proven track record of leading successful R&D projects and delivering commercial integrating AI/ML advanced analytics or digital tools into R&D Sigma or statistical modeling experience for DOE and process communication and leadership skills with ability to influence ProfileThe ideal candidate will:Lead with polymer chemistry depth and process technology rigorTranslate science into scalable reliable manufacturing solutionsUse AI-driven experimentation to accelerate innovation cyclesDeliver measurable business impact through both process improvements and new product commercializationThe base salary range for this role is: $95000 to $142600 annually.