This position reports to the Manager of Polymer Chemistry and advances IDI’s thermoset composite materials with a focus on formulation. Strong technical and interpersonal skills are required to help achieve material performance that goes beyond the value limitations of conventional materials. Specific focus will be on innovation of polymer chemistry in unsaturated polyester, vinyl ester, and epoxy thermoset composites. This position supports material development for IDI North America, including the U.S., Mexico, and Puerto Rico locations for IDI Composites International. Close interaction and technical alignment with IDI’s international locations in the EU, UK, and China will also be expected.
Job Duties:
· Research and investigate new composite resin, reinforcement, and additives and plan studies to develop new materials and advance the benefits of existing products.
· Design multivariate studies of different formulations of a product using Design of Experiments and other formalized test analysis methods.
· Plan analytical testing, material pilot studies, and application testing trials of proposed formulations.
· Analyze results of experimental studies and write reports for both corporate records and regulatory bodies.
· Ensure material formulations are scalable from development to production quantities by working with quality control and plant production personnel.
Technical Skills:
· Basic laboratory skills, especially in analytical techniques for product analysis
· Math and statistical skills for complex experimental design and analysis
· Teamwork and interpersonal skills, to work with large, interdisciplinary teams
· Ability to balance competing needs of product quality, ease of production, and cost
· Ability to analyze experimental results, draw conclusions, and propose logical next steps to reach corporate goals
· Written and oral communication skills, including the ability to communicate clearly with other chemists and scientists, as well as nonscientists.
· Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and manage multiple, changing priorities simultaneously
· Understanding and awareness of competitive materials (such as aluminum and thermoplastic) to assist in the customer conversion process to composite materials.
Job Requirements:
· 4-year degree in Chemistry or Engineering is required.
· Minimum 2 years relevant technical and professional experience is desired.
· Occasional travel (< 25%) will be required. The position is based in our Noblesville, IN office
Note: The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.
