Polymer Scientist

Description

Summary Description: 

This position is responsible for research, development, and optimization of microporous membranes designed for breathable membrane and other applications. The position requires a detailed technical understanding of porous materials, characterization techniques, structure-property relationships, and process optimization as related to ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). 

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Collaborates with Engineering, Process Technologist, and Quality Manager to solve process problems, minimize variability, and improve current microporous membrane production processes.
• Works with R&D to schedule production trials to improve product performance or create new products based upon extrusion-extraction technologies.
• Documents all production trials and characteristics of the resultant membranes; works with Process Technologist to implement standard run conditions for all new products
• Prepares R&D monthly reports on technical activities
• Works closely with the CTO to develop new membrane concepts or characterization methods
• Interfaces with key customer(s) and provides direct technical service support as required
• Develops technical presentations for use in Quarterly meetings
• Files provisional patents on new developments
• Develops models for transport properties through microporous membranes.
• Investigates new characterization techniques for pore size distribution (e.g., small-angle x-ray scattering, NMR, etc.) and pore interconnectivity.
• Maintains safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations
• Follows Lean manufacturing utilizing tools such as Kaizans, 5S, RIE’s and other work area standards
• Represent ENTEK with the highest standard of professional conduct when interacting with all levels of staff, suppliers, and customers. 
• Adopt ENTEK culture and core values.

The position accomplishes these responsibilities through a respectful, constructive, and energetic style, guided by ENTEK’s Core Values, strategic objectives, and Servant Leadership. This position will represent ENTEK with the highest standard of professional conduct when interacting with partners, suppliers, and customers.  

Supervisory Duties:

None

Requirements

Required Skills/Abilities:

Critical knowledge

• Computer savvy
• Superb English written and verbal skills
• Excellent presentation skills

Critical experience

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment and with cross-functional professionals
• High drive for results and advanced problem-solving skills
• Finds innovative solutions to problems
• Strong background in porous materials and polymer science

Critical technical, professional, and personal capabilities

• Lead and drive engineers & production team through high-level projects and experiments
• Be the technical face of the company in front of key customer(s)
• Expertise level in porous materials and polymer science
• Strong work ethic with a desire to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

Education and Experience:

Minimum Qualifications & Experience:

• Ph.D. degree or equivalent work experience in polymer science, materials science, or chemical engineering
• >3 years of experience, including post-doctoral fellowship, if any.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

• Prior experience in UHMWPE gel processing, blown film technology, characterization of porous materials, experimental design, and Lean principles is highly desired.
• Prior experience in research and development of breathable membranes or filtration membranes.
• Background in basic statistics, experimental design, and Minitab software is preferred.

Physical Requirements:

The following physical activities are necessary to perform the essential functions of this job.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to talk or hear. 
• The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, or sit for extended lengths of time. 
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 40      pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. 
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.