Materials Engineer

Overview

Headquartered in Old Saybrook, CT, Infiltrator Water Technologies is the leading provider of engineered plastic chambers, synthetic aggregates, tanks, advanced wastewater treatment systems, and accessories for the onsite/decentralized wastewater and storm water management industries. The majority of Infiltrator products are manufactured from recycled plastic. Founded in 1987, we operate throughout the US and Canada with 8 manufacturing plants in the US, dedicated sales, and corporate team members.  Infiltrator is a pioneer in innovative plastic technologies for underground water management. Infiltrator components are used in most onsite septic systems installed in the United States and Canada. Infiltrator is a proud Corporate Partner of Habitat for Humanity and each year donates components for 50 septic systems serving Habitat homes in North America. Infiltrator is committed to advancing the state of the art in all fronts, including product design, manufacturing, materials, wastewater science, marketing, management, and employee development. In other words, we strive to be the best we can be.

Responsibilities

Infiltrator Water Technologies is seeking a self-driven, initiative-taking, hands-on, recycled polymer expert with a background in polypropylene and polyethylene.  The purchased recycled material is used in blending to specific properties. The blended material is used to injection mold large products. The candidate must have a thorough understanding of the relationship between the incoming properties of the recycled polymers and the properties of the blended polymers related to the finished part properties. The Material Engineer is responsible for reviewing the blends for optimal performance while considering material availability, costs, and material age. The Material Engineer will be fluent in polymer testing and analyzing the data and interpreting the results. Previous experience working with recycled polymers is required. This new position will accelerate and support growth initiatives.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support the evaluation of purchased recycled materials
• Recommend recycled materials to purchase based upon properties and costs
• Support the daily blending of recycled and virgin materials for the Materials Processing Department
• Support the daily decision-making of the blended materials and recommend where they should be used
• Support the optimal blend of wide virgin resin usage with prime materials in the products
• Maximize the material cost savings while ensuring the final product material specifications are being met
• Partner with Materials Processing to interpret the test results and recommend the best course of action
• Work with the Materials group to establish process controls for materials and processing
• Correlation of polymer blend/formulation with observed properties
• Identify equipment needs for effective controls
• Work with in-house ISO/IEC 17025 accredited polymer lab
• Control and recommend enhancements to the Blendsheet software application
• Provide technical recycled expertise
• Available during evenings / weekends for issues that would hold up production.

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATIONAL, AND TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least 10 years’ experience in recycled PP and PE
• Prefer degree in Material Science, Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field
• Laboratory research experience with ASTM specimen molding and testing using FTIR, DSC, TGA, plastometer, tensile, flexural, and notched Izod is required
• A strong team player with a positive and professional attitude, and a strong bias for solving problems
• In-depth knowledge of the latest technologies on recycled material testing and processing

• Demonstrated work experience in plastic injection molding
• Demonstrated teamwork and collaboration skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Good verbal and written communication skills, as well as presentation skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to lead and influence peers
• Must be willing to work in the Lexington, KY area

EEO Statement

ADS supports an inclusive workplace that values diversity of thought, experience, and background. We celebrate the power of our differences to create better solutions for our customers by ensuring employees can be their authentic selves each day. ADS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, creed, status with regard to public assistance, genetic status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.